Insects

Science

Learning intentions

We are learning about insects - Why are they important? What insects can you find living near you?

Teacher information

In this unit, students will learn what are the defining features of an insect and why they are important. Claire, one of our teachers, shares her love for a particular type of insect, the praying mantis, and students are encouraged to go on a hunt to find their own insects.

Non-digital Lesson: Not online? Download the lesson here.

Stage: S2 & S3 KLA: Science

Watch Claire as she introduces you to one of her favourite subjects...insects.

Claire intro insects.m4v
Video: Insects - introduction | YouTube (0:45 min)

Task 1: What is an insect?

Watch this video and learn about insects.

What is an insect_.mp4
Video: What is an insect? | YouTube (1:37 min)

Complete the quiz by labelling the parts of an insect.

Task 2: Why are insects important?

Watch this video explain the importance of insects.

In your journals, write down some reasons why insects are important.

Why are insects important_.mp4
Video: Why are insects important? | YouTube (1:35 min)

Task 3: The praying mantis

Activity 1: Claire is a teacher at Gibberagong, who loves the praying mantis, a type of insect.

Praying mantis.m4v
Video: Praying Mantis | YouTube (1:33 min)

Activity 2: Praying mantis activity

Visit the Australian Museum site to learn more about these great insects. Take notes in your Nature Journal.

Activity 3: The praying mantis is a carnivore, watch this video of a mantid catching its prey and eating!

Giant Rainforest Mantid.mp4
Video: Giant rainforest mantid catching prey | YouTube (2:31 min)

Activity 4: Complete this activity where you make a praying mantis catch a fly!

Task 4: Go on an insect hunt

Image: Max Pixel | CCO

Activity 1: Go on a nature hunt and see what insects are in your own backyard or local area.

In your nature journal, draw a picture of the insect you found.

You could also take photos of insects you find and share with your classmates.

Activity 2: Identify your creature

Not sure if what you found is an insect?

Remember to look for the key features that make an insect.

Maybe you found something that was not an insect! Wondering what it is? Use the key or the charts below to see what you found.

Identification Key

Identification Charts

Invertebrate ID Sheet 2020.pdf

More activities for your nature journals!

Download the Nature Journal prompts below. Print a copy and stick it into your nature journal.

My Nature Journal .pdf