Give each student a cricket or grasshopper and have them observe through a hand lense or a microscope one mouthpart, wing, leg, compound eye, and antenna. Using information discussed in the topic outline, draw and label the four stages of growth of an insect specie which goes through complete metamorphosis. Bees, wasps, ants, butterflies, moths, flies, mosquitoes, beetles, and weevils all have a complete metamorphosis. Insects can be caught be sweeping with an insect net through grassy areas and branches. Turn over logs, rocks and other debris to find more insects.
Lights attract many insects.
Collect them at night at street or porch lights. After insects are collected they must be killed quickly. Use any heavy glass jar with a wide mouth and tight screw cap. Dry it thoroughly in the oven. Pour ethyl acetate into the jar.