Mighty Beetle Build

This beetle exploration class will cover some of the many adaptations of the various beetles found around the world. These beetle powers range from the mighty strength of the dung beetle to the defensive adaptations of boiling hot poison shot from the bombardier beetle.Students will hear details of various beetles and take a vote on which one(s) they think would win in a beetle battle or survive better in a given environment. based on each beetle's specific strengths. The students will then use play dough, or any other form of moldable material, to build their own unique beetle with any special characteristics, powers, or attributes they wish to give it to help it survive well. Lastly the students will share their beetle creations with the class and tell all about its specific qualities. 

My teaching style is a combination of direct instruction and student centered exploration. This class has periods of me teaching as well as periods of exploratory questioning where the students will be interacting with the class and the lesson concepts directly. 

This is an interactive class in which students will have questions directed at them as well as several opportunities to share their own personal experiences and their beetle creations. I do include questions that allow the most shy students to answer using body language verses verbal communication when necessary, and these students are welcome to only show their insect creation instead of giving verbal details about it to help them feel more comfortable. 

There is no prior knowledge necessary for this class.