Type

Life Science

Grade Level

2-4

Difficulty Level

Easy

Cost

Minimal

Safety Issues

• Adult supervision recommended when interviewing people or searching the net.
• Treat all animals with the greatest possible care and respect.

Project Time Frame

2-4 weeks

Objective

This project explores the unique markings and coloring of ladybugs.

Project Goals

• To find out what determines the number of spots on a ladybug.
• To illustrate the benefits of ladybugs.

Materials and Equipment

• Computer with internet access
• Color printer
• Digital camera
• Magnifying glass
• Ladybug specimens
• Typical office/craft supplies (such as paper, pens & poster-board)

Introduction

Ladybugs are charming creatures, enjoyable to watch, harmless to hold, useful in gardens, wished upon like stars and blown away in the breeze.  Some say a ladybug’s spots determine its age.  This project will reveal the truth about ladybugs.

Research Questions

• What is a ladybug?
• Is it true that a ladybug’s spots determine its age?
• What are the benefits and disadvantages of ladybugs?
• What’s the smartest way to handle ladybug infestations?  (Hint: Infestation merely means they are in the wrong place)

Terms and Concepts to Start Background Research

Coccinellidae

Experimental Procedure

1. Research related materials (see bibliography below)
2. Collect ladybugs
3. Search online, print, and carefully label pictures of ladybugs that interest you.
4. Write about ladybugs (what they eat, regions where they are found, markings, etc).
5. List the benefits and disadvantages of ladybugs.
6. Suggest a creative solution for ladybug infestations that does not involve killing them.
7. Write a detailed report.
8. Include live ladybug specimens in your science fair display.
9. Show interesting photos taken throughout the course of the project.

Bibliography

• National Geographic "Ladybugs"
• Wiki topic:  “Ladybugs”