Get hands-on with nature by creating a welcoming bug hotel using natural and recycled materials. Along the way find out about the importance of insects and the incredible variety of insects living on our doorstep. Once your bug hotel is complete, turn it into a living science lab – perfect for observing, monitoring, and recording insect activity!
Key stage: Key stage 1 or 2
National Curriculum links: Science, Geography, Design & Technology, PSHE
- Science:
- Learn about living things and their habitats (KS1)
- Observe and identify different insects (KS1)
- Understand basic needs like food, water, and shelter (KS1)
- Explore the concepts of habitats, ecosystems, and food chains (KS2)
- Observe, gather, and record data (WS)
- Make predictions and draw conclusions about insect behaviour (WS)
- Geography:
- Explore the concepts of habitats, ecosystems, and food chains.
- Learn about the importance of biodiversity and how human actions can affect the environment.
- Design & Technology:
- Design and construct bug hotels using recycled materials, developing their practical skills and understanding of how structures are made.
- Explore different materials and techniques for creating suitable habitats for various insects.
- PSHE
- Promote environmental care and responsibility.
- Develop empathy for living creatures and learn about the importance of respecting nature.
Further resources to explore:
- Leicestershire & Rutland Wildlife Trust (LRWT) and Wildlife Watch have many fun activities, such as minibeast spotter sheets and colouring in activities, which would be a perfect addition to this session.
- Further resources from the Geopark are in development – however, please let us know if there are any specific resources that you would like.
For access to the resources, please email our Education Officer, Hayley Rock, hrock@nationalforest.org