People, animals and plants are dependent on our Earth’s natural resources. Everything from the air we breathe, to the water we drink, to the soil we use for food production – these resources are vital to our existence. Therefore, it’s important that we care for and respect these resources.  The first step in conserving natural resources and protecting our environment is to educate on natural resource processes.  

4-H school enrichment programs allow 4-H to expand its impact and extend its reach in science and natural resources by providing opportunities for hands-on scientific learning and discovery.   The Butterfly WINGS program allows youth to gain knowledge of the interrelationships and interdependencies within an ecosystem.

Over 1,000 students in more than 45 Carter County elementary school classrooms have participated in the 4-H Butterfly WINGS program since 2015.  Through the program students have observed painted lady caterpillars complete the metamorphosis process and become butterflies.   In addition to providing teachers with the caterpillars and supplies for a successful observation, the 4-H Agent also provides teachers with curriculum that they can use to enhance the experience.

Surveys from teachers always state that students have benefited from the program by gaining life science knowledge.   Quotes from a few of the teachers are included below:

“Students were able to be a scientist and record their observations as the life cycle happened.” – 1^st grade teacher

“Students used science inquiry skills and made predictions.” – Pre-K teacher

“Students learned about the butterfly life cycle, facts about butterflies, and parts of an insect.    This project enhanced the 1^st grade science curriculum so students could make hands on/real life observations.” – 1^st grade teacher

“This activity gave students real-world connections.” – 1^st grade teacher

“Students learned about pollination & plant life and why butterflies are important.  It allowed my students to physically see metamorphosis and how it happens.”  - 1^st grade teacher

“Students learned the life cycle of a butterfly and the timeline in real life.   They were able to observe nature in our classroom.  It helped our classroom by showing students the natural phenomenon of life.” – 1^st grade teacher

“The students determined that things in nature don’t always turn out the way they are intended to.   We had one not completely form its wings.   Real-life experience and hands-on experience are essential for student learning.” – 3^rd grade teacher

“It made the life cycle come to life.  When you can see things happening it makes it easier to learn.”- 1^st grade teacher

“The kids kept track of the changes and made observations.” – 5^th grade teacher

“The book provides a good model for the life cycle of the butterfly, but this activity provides a concrete example.” – 4^th grade teacher

“The project helped them go beyond the book and helped them learn with hands on experience.” – 2^nd grade teacher

A 1^st grade student studies the life cycle of butterflies.   

A 3^rd grade classroom releasing their butterflies.