Pests provide a fascinating entry point into many curricular subjects, including biology, ecology, environment, and health. Use our K-2 and 3-5 grade lesson plans to teach insect anatomy, the social life of termites, the scientific inquiry process, and much more. Our lessons emphasize both content and process skills and support the National Science Standards.

 

This lesson introduces students to a wide variety of common pests. Students will learn about basic needs, pest damage, and self-protection measures against certain pests. Some of the activities include playing a game, creating a class book and reading a story about a commonly found pest.

Explore the world of termites with this lesson, which includes a close-up look at termite specimens, special termite adaptations and insect anatomy. Students will also learn about property risks associated with termites, and how pest control professionals can solve termite problems.

This lesson will engage students in an inquiry-based study of the ecology of termites. Through hands-on investigations, students will explore the life cycle of termites, the termite's role in the food web, and the unique social structure of termite colonies. (Supports the Pest Detective learning game.)

In this lesson, students will explore the native habitats and behaviors of common pests to understand why and how household pests enter our homes. Students will examine the relationship between humans and pests and the limited habitat and resources shared by both. (Supports The Pest Rangers learning game.)