Introduction
The life cycle of a monarch butterfly refers to the cycle of one generation, from egg to adult. The annual cycle takes place within one full year. There are several monarch life cycles (generations) in a single year. In this slideshow, students learn about highlights of the monarch's annual cycle.
Try This!
- Puzzle Page: Print the puzzle pages and cut into pieces. Challenge students to sequence the events of the annual cycle. (English/Spanish)
- Photo Gallery: Preview or summarize the slideshow with the Photo Gallery pages. (English/Spanish)
- Spanish/English Text: Explore the Spanish translation with the text-only pages: (English/Spanish)
Showcase the Cycle
- Timeline: As a class, create a large timeline to showcase the month-by-month events of the monarch's annual cycle. As you track this season's migration, add your own observations to the timeline. Discuss how your observations match the expected events of the monarch's annual cycle or if what you observed were unexpected surprises.
- Circle Book: Have students work alone or with a partner to make a circle book to showcase the cyclical events of the annual cycle. Encourage them to revisit information in the slideshow to construct their circle book. Display the student-made books in your school's library.
Track this Season's Migration
As you track monarch migration this season, watch for surprises. Look for real-life examples that don't follow 'the rules' or fit conventional wisdom. Notice the way new observations raise questions. This is an important value of citizen science. Regular people–including children—can contribute unexpected observations that raise questions and/or build scientific understanding.
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