Objective

By the end of this lesson, Abbie will have a better understanding of cicadas, including their life cycle, habitat, and behaviors. She will also engage in fun activities that reinforce her learning and spark her curiosity about these fascinating insects.

Materials and Prep

• Paper and colored pencils or markers
• A notebook for writing observations
• A timer or stopwatch
• Access to a safe outdoor area (like a backyard or park)

Before the lesson, make sure to find a good spot outdoors where cicadas are likely to be found. Familiarize yourself with the sounds they make, as this will help Abbie identify them during the activities.

Activities

• Cicada Sound Hunt:

  Go outside and listen for cicadas. Use the timer to see how long it takes to hear one. Once you hear a cicada, write down the time and describe the sound it makes. This will help you appreciate their unique calls!

• Cicada Life Cycle Drawing:

  Research and draw the different stages of a cicada's life cycle: egg, nymph, and adult. Label each stage and write a short description of what happens at each stage. This will help you visualize how cicadas grow!

• Cicada Observation Journal:

  Spend some time quietly observing cicadas in their natural habitat. Write down your observations about their behavior, what they are doing, and any other insects or animals you see nearby. This will develop your skills in observation and note-taking!

Talking Points

• "Did you know cicadas spend most of their lives underground? They can be nymphs for 1 to 17 years!"
• "Cicadas are famous for their loud calls. The males make these sounds to attract females. Can you mimic a cicada call?"
• "Cicadas have a unique life cycle. They start as eggs, then become nymphs, and finally grow into adults. What do you think each stage looks like?"
• "Some cicadas only come out every 13 or 17 years! That's why we call them periodical cicadas. Why do you think they wait so long?"
• "Cicadas are not harmful to humans, but they can be noisy! How do you feel about their sounds?"
• "Cicadas are important for the ecosystem because they provide food for birds and other animals. Can you think of other insects that help the environment?"
• "When cicadas emerge from the ground, they shed their skins. This is called molting. Have you ever seen a cicada shell?"
• "Cicadas can fly very well! They have strong wings that help them escape from predators. How do you think they avoid danger?"
• "There are many different species of cicadas. Some are green, while others are brown or black. What colors do you think you will see?"
• "Learning about cicadas can help us understand more about nature and the environment. What is your favorite thing about cicadas?"