Launch
Students will launch the butterfly investigation by observing habitat clues, asking what butterflies need to live, and beginning a shared plan for how they will gather evidence through looking, talking, drawing, and sorting.
Days 1 - 2
Observe & Wonder
Students will observe butterfly habitats closely, ask and refine questions, build a simple class hypothesis about butterfly needs, and practice an age-appropriate investigation plan using picture evidence, outdoor observations, partner talk, and oral explanations.
Days 3 - 8
Build Habitat Evidence
Students will gather and record evidence about butterfly habitat needs, use that evidence to build individual butterfly home dioramas, and revise their models through partner feedback before moving into later analysis.
Days 9 - 13
Analyze & Share
Students will analyze butterfly evidence from journals, class charts, and habitat models to identify patterns in food, water, and shelter. They will explain their thinking through movement, picture sorting, partner talk, and exhibit preparation while revising their dioramas and sharing evidence-based claims about what butterflies need to grow and stay alive.
Days 14 - 18
Showcase
Students will present their butterfly home dioramas and investigation evidence to families and community guests, then reflect on how observations, feedback, and revisions helped them explain what butterflies need to grow and stay alive.
Days 19 - 20