Back to Projects

The Study of Life Cycles

School: Alice B. Beal Elementary

City/State: Springfield, MA

Grade(s): 2

Format(s): Book: Nonfiction/Informational

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

Project Overview

2nd grade students from the Alice B. Beal Elementary School in Springfield, Massachusetts created this book about the life cycles of insects.

Each entry follows a similar format and contains descriptive information - including habitat, life cycle, diet, behavior, predators and interesting facts - about the insect that was studied.

Students did multiple drafts of their writing and drawings, with formal critique protocols guiding the improvement of their work. 

How This Project Can Be Useful

  • Quality of illustrations is very strong for 2nd grade students; multiple drafts and revisions are evident in the final draft quality
  • Exemplifies the use of a common template for each entry (which adds consistency), while retaining students’ unique contributions
  • A creative and effective format to address and deepen content required in state curriculum frameworks and district science requirements

Common Core State Standards

Standard Long Term Learning Target
W.2.2
  • I can construct a closure on the topic of an informative/explanatory text.
W.2.5
  • With support, I can strengthen my writing through editing.
W.2.8
  • I can answer questions about things I’ve done or learned about.
L.2.1
  • I can use grammar conventions to send a clear message to a reader or listener.
L.2.2
  • I can use conventions to send a clear message to my reader.
L.2.6
  • I can speak using words I hear in books.
L.3.6
  • I can accurately use 3rd grade academic vocabulary to express my ideas.
Back to Projects