Back to Projects

Beetlemania: It's More Than Just John, Paul, Ringo and George

School: Explore Elementary (PK-6)

City/State: Thornton, CO

Grade(s): 5, 6

Format(s): Field guide: Natural science

Subject(s): English Language Arts, Science and Technology, Visual Arts

Project Overview

Beetlemania is a field guide to the Rocky Mountain Beetle Infestation in the Colorado Forest Ecosystem written and illustrated by 5th and 6th grade students at Explore Elementary in Thornton, CO.

This extensive field guide includes background information on the Mountain Pine Beetle and the trees that it invades. It also looks at the impact on the forest from the beetle infestation, how the forests will change due to this infestation and treatments for infected trees.

Students working together in their CREW created this field guide over a period of 12 weeks. They started by individually researching topics related to the Mountain Pine Beetle, writing reports and creating illustrations and photographs. The final essay on the relationship between this invasive species and global warming was written as a group.  The project culminated with a public book release celebration. 

How This Project Can Be Useful

  • Highlights an investigation of the environment in close proximity to the school
  • Fills an existing need – field guide to a local area and addresses a time critical issue
  • Highlights a project created in CREW

Common Core State Standards

Standard Long Term Learning Target
W.5.2
  • I can write informative/explanatory texts that convey ideas and information clearly.
W.5.5
  • With support from peers and adults, I can use a writing process to produce clear and coherent writing.
W.5.9
  • I can choose evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection and research.
L.5.1
  • I can use grammar conventions to send a clear message to a reader or listener.
L.5.2
  • I can use conventions to send a clear message to my reader.
L.5.3
  • I can use my knowledge of language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading, or listening.
L.5.6
  • I can accurately use 5th grade academic vocabulary to express my ideas.
W.6.5
  • With support from peers and adults, I can use a writing process to produce clear and coherent writing.
L.6.6
  • I can use resources to build my vocabulary.
Back to Projects