Lesson Overview

National Science Education Standards

• History and Nature of Science: Content Standard G: Science as a human endeavor
• Life Science: Content Standard C: The characteristics of organisms
• Science as Inquiry: Content Standard A: Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry
• Science in Personal and Social Perspectives: Content Standard F: Types of Resources, Changes in Environments, Science and Technology in Local Challenges

Materials

• Subterranean Termite Specimens: Winged Reproductive Swarmers and Workers (see Additional Resources section for termite sources)
• Hand Lenses
• Termite Fact Sheet
• Termite Anatomy Sheet

Preparation

• Arrange for and gather termite specimens (see Resources) (one per student is ideal).
• AGather hand lenses (one per student is ideal).
• AInvite a termite control specialist into the classroom as a guest speaker.
• APrint a copy of the Termite Fact Sheet for reference.

Time Consideration

• Preparation: 20 Minutes
• Lesson: 45 - 60 Minutes

Key Concepts

• Termites in the home are animals that are out of place; they are considered pests.
• Termites are amazing insects; they have unique mouthparts, a special adaptation, that helps them survive.
• Insects have specific body features that make them insects.
• Termite behavior is influenced by hunger.
• Some people choose pest control management as a career.

Vocabulary Words

• Basic
• Damage
• Pest
• Pest Control Professional
• Pesticide
• Protection
• Shelter

Skills Learned

• Discussion
• Matching
• Cause/Effect
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Cooperative Learning
• Social
• Classification