Overview:

This resource introduces learners to the variety of bugs and worms found in local hedgerow habitats through a hands-on investigation. The activity builds observation and identification skills while encouraging students to think about the ecological roles that invertebrates play, from pollination to decomposition, and to consider why different habitats might support different bug communities. It comprises a comprehensive teacher’s lesson plan/guide including instructions for preparatory work. This activity is intended for small groups of around ten students and takes around 30 minutes to deliver. It can be adapted for learners aged approximately 7-10 (SCQF Level 1-2).

This resource was created as part of the NERC Edinburgh Environmental Days outreach and widening participation initiative. It has been created for use as an Open Educational Resource (OER) by the OER Service, within the University of Edinburgh’s Information Services Group. As an OER, teachers are welcome to make any changes to their resources according to their needs.

Learning outcomes:

Science – Planet Earth: Biodiversity and interdependence

• SCN 2-01a: I can identify and classify examples of living things, past and present, to help me appreciate their diversity. I can relate physical and behavioural characteristics to their survival or extinction
• SCN 1-02a: I can explore examples of food chains and show an appreciation of how animals and plants depend on each other for food.

Science – Topical science

• SCN 1-20a: I have contributed to discussions of current scientific news items to help develop my awareness of science.

Technology - Technological Developments in Society and Business

• TCH 1-06a: I can take appropriate action to ensure conservation of materials and resources, considering the impact of my actions on the environment.

This resource was created by Niamh Gurrin and Katia Treviño Cuéllar, and adapted by Charlotte Ness.

Unless otherwise stated, all content in this package is available under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.