Week 4 Insects are all Around

"Look, see what happened one of the chrysalises is a butterfly," said many of the children as they put their school bags in their lockers Monday morning. The excitement continued as the group realized that there were two dots, one on the back of each wing, which indicated that the butterfly was a male. Next question to ponder. Will the three chrysalises still in the cage become butterflies? We'll have to wait and see. However, to our dismay, six huge caterpillars continue munching and crunching and it seems they have no interest in beginning the chrysalis stage. That is a big problem since their host, the milkweedplant, is beginning to lose its energy and fall is fast approaching. In math the children created cute pattern caterpillars, measured them, and then sequenced from smallest to largest. The class continued the same process using unifex cubes later in the week. We carried the life cycle a bit further this week by introducing the difference between a complete and incomplete metamorphosis. It make take a few more discussions before the children have a thorough understanding of this concept. However, if you look closely at our literature listings you may determine which insect was used in the introduction of it. In keeping with the study, the children wrote about a real or fictional encounter with an insect. The stories were terrific! The class began to making The Life Cycle of a Butterfly story board that will be completed next week. It is another way to enhance the study and make it more meaningful for the children. Everyone enjoys the manner in which the book, What is an Insect? teaches the characteristics of an insect. You'll have that book to add to your family library after our study is complete. You must know by now that the children made bug catchers and hand bands before going on our Insect Hunt Friday afternoon. With a great deal of perseverance and teamwork, everyone was successful in their quest for a "bug." Hip, Hip, Hooray! The photos at the end of this week's picture album says it all. Enjoy! Oh yes, one more exciting insect happening. On the way to lunch Friday, several children came to a quick stop outside of our classroom and shouted,"Look, a little caterpillar is crawling on the floor!" And the children were correct! I said, "Boys and girls how could you see such a tiny thing? Emery, our leader of the day said, "It must be going to lunch! What a oustanding class! Remember to read and discuss the pre-decodable book, The Party with your child. We sent Circle of Friends home this weekend. Everyone will soon have an opportunity to learn more about the wonderful children in Room P217! We are all excited about going to the Milwaukee Public Museum Monday afternoon! Wishing you a great weekend!