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Science Inquiry Skills: Questioning
As a class, review the
slideshow of the monarch's annual cycle. Get familiar with the
classic story, “as told.” As you track migration this
year, watch for exceptions to the rule. Try to find real-life examples
as evidence that this story is over-simplified. Watch for observations
that don’t make sense. Ask questions! You are sure to find
examples that don’t fit conventional wisdom. (For example,
some monarchs don't migrate to Mexico at all; in fall some breed/lay
eggs in the southern United States and a new generation might migrate.)
Scientists expand their understanding as they gain new information
and make unexpected observations.
Critical
Thinking: Annual Cycle vs. Life Cycle
Ask students, What is the difference
between the monarch's life cycle and its annual
cycle? (The life cycle refers to the cycle of one
generation, from egg to adult. The annual cycle takes place within
one full year. There are several monarch generations/life cycles
in a single year.) Students might find migration confusing if they
don't understand this key difference.
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