Butterfly Lesson Plan: Kindergarten Caterpillar to Butterfly

This free butterfly lesson plan introduces young students to scientific observation through the real life cycle of a caterpillar. Children watch growth, record changes, and learn how living things develop over time.

Overview

Students investigate the life cycle of a butterfly by observing caterpillars in a classroom habitat. Over several class sessions they document physical changes, discuss how animals grow, and prepare for the butterfly’s release. The lesson blends science, drawing, speaking, and careful observation skills appropriate for early learners.

Subject Connections

Science learning focuses on living organisms, growth, and observation. English Language Arts is practiced when students describe what they see, ask questions, and share ideas verbally. Art skills are incorporated through drawing and constructing butterfly models. Early math skills appear when students compare size and sequence stages.

Learning Goals

• Identify the four stages of a butterfly life cycle
• Use observation to learn about living things
• Record changes through drawings and simple descriptions
• Understand that animals grow and change over time
• Practice asking questions about nature

Materials

• Classroom caterpillar habitat or observation images/videos if live insects are unavailable
• Milkweed leaves or appropriate caterpillar food
• Student science journals or stapled paper booklets
• Crayons or colored pencils
• Chart paper
• Art paper and glue
• Tissue paper (orange, black, white) or construction paper

Preparation

• Set up a visible observation area in the classroom
• Prepare a class chart titled “What We Notice”
• Create a simple life cycle diagram for reference
• Prepare journal pages labeled with dates

Teaching Procedure

Each session fits a standard class period of 30–40 minutes. The observation project continues daily across approximately 4–5 weeks as the caterpillar grows and transforms.

Session 1 – Meeting the Caterpillar

1. The teacher introduces the caterpillar habitat and explains observation rules. Students describe what they see while the teacher records words on chart paper.
2. Activity: Students closely observe for one minute and draw exactly what they see, including color and size. Students share one detail they noticed.
3. Students dictate or write one question about the caterpillar and the teacher posts the questions.

Session 2 – Learning the Life Cycle

1. The teacher teaches the four stages: egg, caterpillar, chrysalis, butterfly, using visuals and gestures.
2. Students sequence picture cards and glue them into journals.
3. Students orally retell the stages to a partner.

Session 3 – Observing Growth

1. Students observe daily and report changes in size, color, or behavior.
2. Activity: Students compare size using drawn lines and label drawings “bigger,” “longer,” or “same.”
3. The class chart is updated and students predict what may happen next.

Session 4 – Chrysalis and Transformation

1. Students watch for chrysalis formation.
2. Students sketch and describe the chrysalis.
3. The class discusses how animals change during growth.

Session 5 – Butterfly Emergence and Release

1. The teacher shows the butterfly and reviews safe handling.
2. Activity: Students create paper butterflies modeled on real patterns.
3. Students explain the life cycle in order before the butterfly release.

Assessment

• Student journals showing the life cycle stages
• Ability to orally explain the sequence of development
• Participation in observations and discussions
• Accuracy of drawings and stage identification

Differentiation

• Allow students to dictate observations instead of writing
• Provide pre-drawn outlines for coloring
• Use photos or videos if live observation is difficult
• Offer small group re-teaching of the life cycle sequence

Grade Adaptation

This lesson is designed primarily for Kindergarten students, who benefit from hands-on observation and repeated routines. Grade 1 students can add simple written sentences and more detailed comparisons of changes, while younger learners may focus mainly on drawing and oral description.

Extension Ideas

• Compare butterflies to frogs or other animals that change form
• Create a classroom mural showing the life cycle
• Track seasonal changes and discuss migration
• Plant flowers that attract butterflies