Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Lesson Plans

LESSONS

PICTURES

KEYS

Bugs Don't Bug Me (individual lesson plans)

Build-a-Bug Grades K-6

Designed to help introduce students to aquatic macroinvertebrates and the adaptations that allow them to live in an aquatic environment.  15 - 20 min.

Macroinvertebrate Mix and Match Grades K-6

This activity will introduce students to aquatic macroinvertebrates (primarily insects) and the major segments (the head, thorax, and abdomen) and differentiation between larval, nymph, and adult stages. 30 min.

Macroinvertebrate Simon Says Grades K-6

Introduces students to the adaptations of macroinvertebrates and their feeding habits. 30 min.

Macroinvertebrate Investigation Grades K-6

Through collection and observation, students learn about macroinvertebrates.  30 min.

Macroinvertebrate Graphing Activity Grades K-6

Teaches students to describe and identify the quality of a stream site by analyzing the aquatic macroinvertebrates that live there.  30-45 min.

If Bugs Could Talk Grades K-6

Introduces students to the link between aquatic macroinvertebrates, land use activities and water pollution.  30 min.

Water Pollution Graphing Grades K-6

 Teaches students the link between land use activities and water quality. 45 min.

Aquatic Invasion! Grades 9-12

Teaches the properties of invasive species and their effect on aquatic ecosystems. 60 min.

Additional Printed Resources
The following printed Resources are offered in pdf format (may take a minute to download):

Macroinvertebrate flip posters	Macroinvertebrate information posters	Macroinvertebrate picture keys	Bugs Don't Bug Me Coloring and Activity Book
		semi-tolerant bugs non-tolerant bugs
For more information regarding macroinvertebrates, including data sheets and collection instructions, please refer to the Stream Side Science and Utah Stream Team manuals.