Students suggest tentative explanations. They continue to record and diagram observations, and make new predictions as to what will happen to this creature. One day students begin to see a new creature and they realize they have observed and studied part of the life cycle of a butterfly. Some want to release their butterflies outside and hopefully insure their survival. Others place their butterflies in the class terrarium to watch the final stages of the butterfly's life.
Students record their feelings and observations for a final time.
Most students are sad that it is over, yet glad they have had the chance to nurture another living thing.