Learning activities/Bug Blitz

Introduction

The Bug Blitz is the idea of renowned naturalist and scholar Professor Edward O. Wilson of Harvard University. Students and teachers combine to focus on the issues that surround biodiversity. No prior experience is necessary for this type of field work. The only equipment required is the XO. What is also required is energy, to be able to inquire scientifically and to be able to work together with peers and experts, reflecting biodiversity.

Students will work with each other to collect, describe, record, and compare the living and non-living things in a particular "hot spot." They will identify issues, create new ways to present their information, and deliver messages about the knowledge gained. In addition, they will develop a whole new appreciation and respect for bugs. Combining the arts and science allows students to create a dynamic knowledge of biodiversity and help their region have a sustainable future.

Teacher Responsibility

Teachers accompanying students on the Blitz have an important role in ensuring it all comes together. Teachers have a particular responsibility to support the organizing their student group before arriving at the Blitz, and ensuring the preparatory work required for the Bug Blitz is completed. During the Blitz, teachers are expected to be fully involved in assisting the student working groups, and supporting the staff and experts working with them.

In advance of the Blitz, teachers will:

• Help students complete the ‘Pre-Bug Blitz activities’ and ensure they are prepared to participate in the outdoor experience and communal activities.

On arrival at the Blitz teachers will:

• Be fully involved with all the field and social activities including walking, navigation, team challenges, conducting activities, working with other teachers in collaboratively supervising students, and assisting with the development of a final day presentation with a group of seven students.

The Blitz Challenge

Teams of 7 comprising students and teacher will work together to trap and identify bugs, investigate the area, collect photos and evidence of bugs, and create the following products to present to the entire group on the final day:

1. Bug-Birds -- Under the microscope, telling a story of specific birds or bugs of the area.
2. Creation of a reflective audio-visual display of photos documenting their group’s journey during the Blitz.
3. Time capsule -- Past, present and future. Teams decide on one object they would like to include in a time capsule to be buried and explain what commitment they will make to the future.

Activities Explained

Walking with Bugs and Birds

Teams will go on a hike, looking out for any bugs and birds. Students will document all evidence of bugs and birds using their XOs to incorporate in their audiovisual presentations.

Audiovisual Workshop

Students create a visual presentation using their photographs of their experience in the final presentation.

Team Presentations

Each team presents a piece for the 4 award categories with prizes assigned to the best presentations by the experts.