Save the Bees Project
In this project for 3rd Grade+, we will examine the causes of declining bee populations and come up with solutions we can implement in our communities.
Part 1: Introduction
Watch these videos to introduce the basics of honey bees, and then introduce our Save the Bees Project.
Big Buzz About Bees
Grade Level:
Kindergarten - 2nd Grade
Check out our busy bees! We'll examine how bees live, all of their different jobs, and see the inside of a real working beehive.
Save the Bees
Grade Level:
2nd Grade - 5th Grade
In this class, we'll discuss some of the reasons why bees are dying and examine some of the ways we can help bees in our community.
Part 2: Introductory Worksheets
Demonstrate your understanding of honey bees, native bees, and the problems facing bees by completing these worksheets.
Bee Problems
Grade Level:
3rd Grade - 5th Grade
Honey bees are facing many problems that are causing populations to decline. Match each problem with a description of the problem.
Honey Bee Castes
Grade Level:
1st Grade - 5th Grade
Label each honey bee caste and describe the job(s) that each caste performs.
Compare Bees
Grade Level:
3rd Grade - 5th Grade
Compare the similarites and differences between honey bees and native bees such as Bumble Bees, Carpenter Bees, and Mason Bees.
Bee Life Cycle
Grade Level:
Kindergarten - 3rd Grade
Put the life cycle pictures in the correct order and label each stage of development (Egg, Larvae, Pupa, Adult Bee).
Part 3: Observe
Observe pollinators in your community with these activities.
Pollinator Count
Grade Level:
1st Grade - 5th Grade
Observe the pollinators in your community. Record your data in this Pollinator Count Table.
Pollinator Bingo
Grade Level:
Kindergarten - 5th Grade
Observe pollinators in your local community. See how many different kinds of pollinators you can find, along with their food, water, and shelter.
Part 4: Research Threats & Possible Solutions
These videos will help you learn more about the threats to honey bees and possible solutions. You can choose a specific focus (so you don't have to watch every single video), and make sure to do research online and at your local library as well!
Pollinator Paradise
Grade Level:
Kindergarten - 3rd Grade
Learn how to create a pollinator paradise. Examine the needs of pollinators and make sure your paradise provides food, water, shelter, and safety.
Honeybee Health: Varroa Mites
Grade Level:
2nd Grade - 12th Grade
In this lesson we'll discuss using scientific methods to identify one of the biggest threats to honeybee health: varroa destructor.
Pollinator Plant List
Grade Level:
1st Grade - 5th Grade+
Research plants that provide food for pollinators. Plants should provide pollen and nectar, and something in the garden should be blooming all year.