Cycles in Nature: Supplemental Guide CA | Culminating Activities 187Observing Metamorphosis: Butterfl y
Materials: Caterpillars; fresh leaves; glass jar with a metal lid;
hammer; nail; drawing paper, drawing tools
Note: Collect caterpillars from your local area, or order a native
species of butterfl y that can be released back into your area. If
uncertain, check a fi eld guide on insects for butterfl ies native to
your region.
Option 1: Research instructions on how to raise a butterfl y.
Option 2: Order a caterpillar kit for a species that is native to your
region. Company sources can be found by searching the Internet
or by checking with your local school district for information.
Refer to the set of instructions that came with your purchased
butterfl y kit. Have students observe and examine the caterpillars’
metamorphosis into a butterfl y. Ask students to describe the
stages they see as the caterpillars develop. Have them draw these
stages on drawing paper and write a caption for each stage of
metamorphosis.Water: The Essence of All Life
Materials: Clear plastic tubs or cartons; ruler
Have students measure and record rainfall.Clouds: Sky Watching
Materials: Paper, pencils
Have students observe, draw, and label the clouds they see in the
sky.Cycles in Nature Research
Materials: Recommended trade books; online and library
resources
Have students research questions they may have about the topics
discussed in this domain. You may also wish to have students
expand their knowledge about related topics; for example,
students may wish to research the life cycle of other plants and/or
animals.