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Description
Bees are the focus of this outdoor inquiry that engages students in learning about plant reproduction and these remarkable insects in their natural habitat. Students locate and safely catch bees to observe structural features before releasing them unharmed. This discovery experience provides an authentic context for informed conversations about environmental issues related to pollinator species, while at the same time, strengthening connections to the natural world.
General Assessment
Recommendation of how and where to use it
This activity supports the teaching of a number of middle school curriculum outcomes related to biodiversity, interactions within ecosystems, plant growth and sustainable development. The learning could also be extended with a citizen science project that involves students in surveying and reporting local pollinator populations through an organization like Bumble Bee Watch.
The decline in bee populations is a complex issue but an important factor is habitat loss. Students could work with a local Senior's Centre to create a wildflower garden that benefits pollinator species and provides a peaceful space for residents. A class could also develop a “bee friendly” gardening campaign that informs the local community about the benefits of purchasing organic, pesticide free nursery transplants.
Relevant Curriculum Units
The following tool will allow you to explore the relevant curriculum matches for this resource. To start, select a province listed below.
- Step 1Select a province
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- Manitoba
- Newfoundland & Labrador
- Northwest Territories
- Nova Scotia
- Nunavut
- Step 2Select a grade level
- Grade 6
- Step 3Select a subject
- Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Life Systems: Diversity of Living Things
- Grade 7
- Step 3Select a subject
- Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Interactions and Ecosystems
- Grade 8
- Step 3Select a subject
- Science
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Interactions in Our Environment
- Ontario
- Step 2Select a grade level
- Grade 6
- Step 3Select a subject
- Science & Technology
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Life Systems: Biodiversity
- Grade 7
- Step 3Select a subject
- Science & Technology
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Life Systems: Interactions in the Environment
- Prince Edward Island
- Quebec
- Step 2Select a grade level
- Grade 6
- Step 3Select a subject
- Science & Technology
- Step 4Relevant matches
- Living Things
- Grade 7
- Step 3Select a subject
- Science & Technology
- Step 4Relevant matches
- The Living World
- Grade 8
- Step 3Select a subject
- Science & Technology
- Step 4Relevant matches
- The Living World
- Saskatchewan
- Yukon Territory
Themes Addressed
Ecosystems (2)
- Appreciating the Natural World
- Biodiversity
Food & Agriculture (2)
- Local Food
- Pesticides
