All about ladybirds
A PowerPoint presentation introducing ladybirds and looking at the survival adaptations of camouflage versus poison.
Grouping and classifying ladybirds - resources and class activities
Ladybirds, with their distinctive look and vibrant colours, are great for introducing classification in the classroom. They are also common in many habitats, so they work well for classes looking to apply their new skills outdoors.
These activities cover grouping and classification across Key Stage 1 and 2.
At Key Stage 2, some classes might benefit from reviewing parts of an insect before developing a ladybird classification key using the sorting cards. Older classes might conduct a ladybird survey, recording more detailed notes and contributing to UK ladybird monitoring. The case study can be used as an example of recording detailed survey notes and how these notes can lead to useful insights.
Many of the activities make use of the ladybird sorting cards available to download and print below. The cards show photos of specimens from the NHM’s beetle collection: 150 specimens representing ten species. This allows students to see some of the variation between individuals of a species. See Evolution across primary science for why this is important.
General ladybird resources
UK ladybirds chart
A chart showing 10 of the most common ladybirds in the UK.
Ladybird sorting cards
These cards feature 150 ladybirds from 10 species - showing the variation within species.
Ladybird activities
Parts of an insect - KS1
Objectives:
- Introduce or review the parts of an insect
- Compare and contrast different insects
Activity resources to download:
- Activity plan - Parts of an insect activity (DOCX)
- Worksheet - Parts of an insect worksheet (DOCX)
- PowerPoint presentation - Parts of an insect presentation (PPT)
Grouping and classifying ladybirds - KS1 and KS2
Objectives:
- Compare and contrast different ladybirds by grouping them
- Construct and use a classification key
- Recognise that there is variation within a species and looking for key features can help with classification
Activity resources to download:
- Activity plan - Grouping ladybirds (DOCX)
- Activity plan – Branching key (DOCX)
- Activity plan – Branching key challenge (DOCX)
- Powerpoint presentation - Grouping and classifying (PPT)
Looking for ladybirds - KS1 and KS2
Objectives:
- Explore your local environment.
- Practice using a classification key.
- Set-up a simple practical enquiry.
- Understand how recording detailed notes helps with comparative and fair tests.
Activity resources to download:
- Ladybird hunt activity plan
- Ladybird survey activity plan
- Ladybird survey presentation
Ladybird survey case study
- Survey case study background info
- Survey case study presentation
- Survey case study data
Ladybird genetics - KS3
Activity resources to download:
- Activity plan - Harlequin ladybird genetics (DOCX)
- Powerpoint presentation - Ladybird genetics (PPT)