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2nd Grade  Project 3 weeks

Bug Safari: Nature's Art Adventure

Hayley Z
Updated
SCI.2.LS.1
SCI.2.LS.4
SCI.2.CC.1
SCI.2.CC.4
Collaboration
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to deepen students' understanding of the vital role insects play in ecosystems, fostering appreciation for biodiversity. Through hands-on exploration and collaboration with community partners, students will engage in scientific inquiry and creative expression. This project aims to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, empowering students to share their insights with the community.

Learning goals

Students will understand the role of insects in ecosystems and their importance to biodiversity. They will develop skills in observing and documenting scientific phenomena, using art to communicate their findings creatively. Students will enhance their collaboration skills by working in teams to gather data and share insights. They will engage in critical thinking to analyze patterns and interactions within insect habitats.

Standards
  • [Wisconsin] SCI.2.LS.1 - Students use science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and an understanding of structures and processes (on a scale from molecules to organisms) to make sense of phenomena and solve problems.
  • [Wisconsin] SCI.2.LS.4 - Students use science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and an understanding of biological evolution to make sense of phenomena and solve problems.
  • [Wisconsin] SCI.2.CC.1 - Students use science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas, and patterns to make sense of phenomena and solve problems.
  • [Wisconsin] SCI.2.CC.4 - Students use science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas, and an understanding of systems and models to make sense of phenomena and solve problems.
Competencies
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will create mini insect habitats using natural materials from the park, observing and documenting interactions within these environments. They will compile portfolios containing insect photos, journal reflections, and art pieces that demonstrate their understanding of biodiversity. These portfolios will be showcased at the 'Bug Bash Festival,' where students will also present their findings and creative works to the community.

Launch

Kick off the project with an 'Ecosystem Scavenger Hunt' at the local park, where students form teams to discover clues about different insects and their ecological roles. Collaborate with park rangers to guide the hunt, providing insights into the balance of ecosystems and the importance of biodiversity. Conclude the activity with a group reflection on the findings and how insects contribute to the park's ecosystem.

Exhibition

Organize a 'Bug Bash Festival' at the local park, where students showcase their insect art installations and mini habitats to community members and park visitors. Include live storytelling sessions where students narrate their insect discoveries and discuss the importance of biodiversity. Facilitate interactive stations where visitors can learn about different insects and their roles in the ecosystem through student-led presentations.