Saving the Monarch

Elementary

Description

This well-planned resource uses the life cycle of the Monarch butterfly to introduce the learners to the concepts of environmental stewardship and community service.  Students discover how planting milkweed to help the butterflies is considered an act of philanthropy.  

In the first lesson a story, a class discussion and a brainstorming activity are used to demonstrate the meanings of land stewardship and philanthropy.  Students learn about the special relationship between the Milkweed plant and the Monarch.  Students also label the four stages of the life cycle of the Monarch.

The second lesson builds on the first by having students listen and respond to a reading about the life cycle and migratory behavior of a butterfly. They demonstrate their understanding of butterfly metamorphosis by using pasta to represent the four stages of the Monarch's life cycle.

In the third lesson the students demonstrate what they have learned about the Monarch and take action in their community by raising money to purchase milkweed plants. The plants are then given to individuals who agree to establish a milkweed garden in support of the Monarch.

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General Assessment

Themes Addressed

Relevant Curriculum Units