Eco Learning Portal
Tub of Bugs
In-Classroom Presentation w/ Activity
Grade Level: middle-school, high-school, elementary-school
About: Tub of Bugs is a presentation about macroinvertebrates or aquatic insects and crustaceans that live in our local rivers and streams.
Download Lesson: (Download All)
- DRBA ID Tub of Bugs Dichotomous Key 2021
- Binder Small Dichotomous Key to Common Aquatic Invertebrates
- Binder Aquatic Insects Dichotomous Key
- ModifiedBugIDCardoct2004
Time: Two 45 minute sessions
Grade Level/Curriculum Requirement: Grades 5-12
Objective:
- Students will investigate aquatic insects found in the Dan River basin
- Understand how human interactions affect ecosystems
- Determine the classification of aquatic organisms
Standards Correlation: SOL: 4.2, 4.3, 6.9, LS.3, LS.5, LS.6, LS.7, LS.8, LS.9
Essential Standards: Ecosystems
Time/Season: The virtual Tub of Bugs program can be utilized any time during the year. An in-classroom presentation can be requested during the spring, summer, or early fall.
Materials:
- DRBA Youtube video links
- Copy of each Dichotomous Key PDF for each student or team
- DRBA ID Tub of Bugs Dichotomous Key 2021 PDF
Procedure: Begin the Tub of Bugs virtual lesson by introducing students to aquatic insects utilizing one or both of the DRBA Youtube videos about macroinvertebrates. After watching the videos, introduce and discuss how to use a dichotomous key. In the next classroom session, begin by putting the students in teams or as individuals – go through the DRBA ID Tub of Bugs Dichotomous Key 2021 having the students use the dichotomous key PDFs to identify the organisms.
Helpful Info & Links:
DRBA Youtube videos to go along with lesson:
Tub of Bugs Full Length Educational Video
What is a Tub of Bugs? Introduction to Macroinvertebrates
