Exciting Entomology: Insecta and the Chaos Crew!
Join our team of insect collectors as we try and stay one step ahead of the chaos crew to retrieve insects from different virtual habitats.
Jheanelle Roebbelen (She/Her) Entomologist
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(245)
What's included
8 live meetings
7 hrs 20 mins in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Homework will be in the form of an ongoing insect journal. This will give learners a chance to document the insects they discover with focus on the Order they learn each week. Learners have two options to complete this journal: OPTION 1 : Learners can physically search indoors or outdoors for insects from the Order or Orders they have learned about each week. Assignment may average around 10 to 20 minutes to sketch/photograph an insect and write some observations. Adults may offer to help write observations but single word observations will suffice (i.e. "leaf" if the learner found the insect on a leaf). Learners that are interested, can spend more time and make multiple observations. OPTION 2: Alternately, learners have the option to watch videos provided after each mission, where they can draw and make observations based on what they have watched.Assessment
An informal assessment of journals will be provided. At the conclusion of 8 weeks, each learner will be provided with feedback on how well they grasp key concepts and recommended supplements to their learning.Class Experience
US Grade 1 - 3
In this adventure style course, learners will be guided through an exciting narrative story, complete with heroes and villains! Each week, learners will take on the role as an insect collector, working together as a team to help retrieve and collect a specific Order or Orders of insects in the story. While exploring virtual habitats, learners will discover the morphology, life cycles, and ecology that define some key groups and Families in each order. Some time will also be spent discussing the impact and interactions that humans have with insects and various conservation efforts. Learners will be guided through each weekly episode, with engaging and comprehension building questions, along with critical thinking to solve problems for the main characters. Depending on the mission, learners will be exposed to various mathematical problems that includes: ○ Addition and subtraction ○ Odd and even numbers ○ Graphing ○ Comparisons/ inequalities (greater than, less than) ○ Population density ○ Basic coding unplugged, etc. Some English Language Art (ELA) concepts will also be reinforced and built on. These include: ○ Rhyming words ○ Adjectives ○ Compound words, etc. Learners will develop classification skills as they work to complete their mission. Learners will also be exposed to scientific terminology that relates to the different insect orders and groups. Mission breakdown: ‣ Week 1: Lepidoptera (Butterflies, Moths and Skippers) ‣ Week 2: Hemiptera (True Bugs) ‣ Week 3: Ephemeroptera and Odonata (Mayflies, Dragonflies, Damselflies) ‣ Week 4: Orthoptera (Grasshoppers, Crickets, Katydids) ‣ Week 5: Hymenoptera (Wasps, Bees, Ants) ‣ Week 6: Diptera (True Flies) ‣ Week 7: Blattodea and Mantodea (Cockroach, Termites, Mantis) ‣ Week 8: Coleoptera (Beetles) Will we be able to complete our mission? Who are the Chaos Crew? How will we defeat these villains in the end? Come and find out!
Learning Goals
Learners will be able to identify the key characteristics of each Order of Insects.
Learners will become familiar with the scientific name for each order.
Learners will use various math and/ or ELA skills to help solve problems or situations.
Learners will think critically about the unique characteristics of insects to solve problems.
Learners will discover the morphological and anatomical features of Insects and how they differ between Orders and Families.
Most importantly, learners will have fun!
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Discussion of insect interactions including predator and prey relationships will occur, depending on the insect Order.
Reference will be made to human caused disturbance to insects including habitat loss, deforestation, chemical and pesticide use.
Supply List
A paper/notebook and pen/pencil will be required for some parts of classes. Basic art supplies and/or camera and a notebook will be required for the homework.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined June, 2020
5.0
245reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Bachelor's Degree in Science from University of Guelph
Associate's Degree in Science from Niagara College
Hello! I offer learners the opportunity to dig deep into the fields of entomology, greenhouse growing, and academic writing.
I have a bachelors in Biological Sciences and a diploma in Greenhouse Technology. I have been teaching for over 5 years and I have experience both in the classroom and online. I’m a former college Entomology instructor, turned homeschool mother, cookie decorator, online ESL teacher and academic writing tutor. I have a passion for quality, meaningful learning that I bring to any age group or intellectual level.
I believe teaching should be fun, engaging and interactive. I stand by the idea that students learn best in an environment that allows them the freedom to explore, be creative and think critically.
Personally, I enjoy hiking, reading, and baking artistic treats. I also run a small cookie business.
You will find my personality, experiences and interests sprinkled into each lesson as I strive to relate and stay relevant to students. I look forward to welcoming you into my classroom.Reviews
Live Group Class
$100
for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
55 min
Completed by 15 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 6-9
1-4 learners per class
