A recurring theme of our science curriculum is cycles. This spring, we are studying insect metamorphisis and have revealed three habitats containing mystery larvae (painted lady butterflies, ladybugs, and mosquitos). The children have become "entomologists" as they record daily observations in their science journals and try to predict what the larvae will become. Some great questions have come up:
Are bugs and insects the same?
How can caterpillars turn into insects if they have more than six legs?
With piles of insect books on hand, the children engage in independent research every chance they get. Some are really determined to solve the mystery! Yesterday we learned that the little tan "crumbs" at the bottom of the caterpillar cage are frass (insect droppings). One child commented, " They really frassed a lot!"