BEF Grant for Kindergarten Entomologists at JFK

Calling all entomologists!

Are there any entomologists in the room?

Twenty-two hands popped up.

“What makes an insect an insect?” asked kindergarten teacher Lisa Needleman.

“Insects have six legs,” said Lucy M.

“Insects have abdomens,” said Nora L.

“And a thorax,” said Daniel C.

“I remember that ladybugs and spiders have exoskeletons," said Christopher M.

Kindergarten students across the grade are studying the life cycle of butterflies, thanks to a Brewster Education Foundation grant that allowed the purchase of a butterfly garden, caterpillars and butterfly observation journals for budding entomologists in each and every kindergarten classroom.

This week, the caterpillars arrived in boxes and were unveiled in various ways by teachers. The anticipation and excitement was real.

Predictions of what was in the boxes ranged from tarantulas to ladybugs.

When the box was opened in Karen O’Brien’s classroom, a cheer went up. Everyone on the classroom rug got a turn peeking into the glass container at the five caterpillars.

Over the next few weeks students will observe the caterpillars' life cycle–from chrysalis to butterflies. They will use their journals to write and draw pictures of what they observe.

The unit is part of the ARC literacy program unit on entomology. Students will learn about metamorphosis and explore habitats and insect anatomy. They will also read informational texts, do research and write. Combining hands-on observations with structured literacy activities is just one of the highlights of the ARC literacy curriculum, which is aimed at enhancing engagement and scientific understanding.

A shout out goes to the BEF for their generous gift.