Amazing Arthropods!

Discover the world of insects, spiders, millipedes and other arthropods as we explore these incredible creatures. Learn about insect life cycles and how insects interact with trees as we explore our pond, forests and fields in search of butterflies, dragonflies, beetles and bugs. Games, hands-on demonstrations and field experiences are sure to make your students bug out!
 
Principles:
  • Arthropods are a diverse group of invertebrates that are found all over the world.
  • Insects are a type of arthropod; there are many ways in which they share relationships with trees and other living things.
  • Arthropods inhabit many habitats in the mountains of North Carolina and can be found with the aid of a number of tools.
  • Arthropods are important members of our ecosystem in the ways they serve as food for other organisms and pollinate flowers.
  • Many insects have life cycles that include metamorphosis.
  • Arthropods have unique survival strategies that enable them to avoid predators.
Duration: 1.5 hours
 
Cost: $5.00 per student. Payment should be given to the instructor at the start of the program. No charge for one teacher/adult for every five students.
 
Months Offered: September-November, March-May. The warmer months provide more opportunities to find arthropods outdoors.
 
NC Science Curriculum Goals: 
            Kindergarten- 1.01, 1.02, 1.03, 1.05
            First Grade- 1.02, 1.03, 1.04, 1.05
            Second Grade- 1.01, 1.02, 1.03, 1.04
            Fourth Grade- 1.01, 1.02, 1.03, 1.05
            Fifth Grade- 1.01, 1.02, 1.05
 
Starting Location: In front of the Education Center at the program start time (either 9:30 am or 12:00 pm) set upon booking the program. Groups arriving early may enjoy the property and facilities. 
 
What do my students need?
Students should wear clothing that is appropriate for the weather. A majority of the program will take place outdoors, so students, teachers and adult chaperones should wear sturdy footwear. Students with physical disabilities or limitations are capable of participating in the walk, but the instructor should be told prior to day of the program to make any special arrangements.
 
Want to schedule this program? Contact Lauren Pyle, Environmental Education Specialist, at lpyle@ncarboretum.org or (828) 665-2492 ext. 224