Metamorphosis: Amazing Transformations

What You'll Learn

During metamorphosis, an organism changes its body form completely. A butterfly begins as an egg, becomes a caterpillar, forms a chrysalis, and finally emerges with wings.

Key Words

decomposer
food web
adaptation

Materials Needed

cups
water
plastic wrap
ruler
magnifying glass
paper towels

Safety First

Do not taste any materials.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read the introduction and identify the main idea of this lesson.

Step 2 — Do

Model natural selection: scatter colored paper scraps on grass. Time how long it takes a partner to pick up each color. Which color survived longest? Why?

Step 3 — Observe

Observe what happens and describe it in detail.

Step 4 — Record

Record your observations in your science journal with measurements and descriptions.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

Which animals go through metamorphosis?