The Life Cycle of Butterflies (2nd grade)

This unit introduces students to the concept of life cycles by inviting them to investigate one organism -the Painted Lady butterfly (Vanessa cardui). During an eight-week period, students observe, record, and describe the metamorphosis from caterpillar to chrysalis and from chrysalis to butterfly. In many cases, they watch the butterfly lay eggs. The butterfly ultimately dies a natural death, thereby completing students' observations of the life cycle. The children compare the life cycle of the butterfly with that of other organisms, an experience that deepens their understanding of the diversity of life and the patterns that characterize animal life cycles.

Movie clip on butterflies for The Life Cycle of Butterflies unit
(check out the Media movie, Painted Lady Butterfly Eggs) 

Additional Photos

Parent Letter - English

Parent Letter - Spanish

The Lifecycles of Butterflies Storyline (pdf)

Living Materials Information & Care Sheet - Painted Lady Butterfly (pdf)

Literacy / Book Lists

Teacher Recommended Resources

Recommended Websites

Unit Certificate
Acknowledge your student's accomplishment in completing this unit with our completion certificate. We hope they enjoyed learning about science through The Einstein Project's hands-on approach!

Sponsorship Opportunity

Sponsor The Life Cycle of Butterflies unit! Please contact Lori Kaufman, development director, about this and other sponsorship opportunities. You can reach her at 920-884-8800 or lori@einsteinproject.org.

What are people saying about The Life Cycle of Butterflies Einstein science unit?

" My students completely enjoyed this unit. They learned from each lesson. We integrated it into our writing, reading and social studies as well."
--Michelle LeBrun, Grade 2 teacher at Hemlock Creek Elementary School, De Pere, Wisconsin

"We love the kit. Former students come back and check on our caterpillar progress."
--Ann Murphy, Grade 2 teacher at Hillcrest Elementary School, Oneida, Wisconsin

"I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THE EASE OF THIS KIT!"
--Ann Cumbers, Grade 2, Wilder Elementary, Green Bay, Wisconsin

"I love everything about this kit! So do my students!"
--David Reinking, Grade 2 teacher at Hillcrest Elementary School, Oneida, Wisconsin