Don’t Bug Me
Introduction
Welcome to Don't Bug Me! – a fun and knowledge-packed Science Olympiad event where middle school students become budding entomologists (insect scientists)! In this challenge, kids learn all about insects — from tiny ants to beautiful butterflies — and explore how these creatures play a vital role in our ecosystem. This project is perfect for curious minds who love nature, science, and solving mysteries in the insect world!
About This Project
Don’t Bug Me! – Discover the Fascinating World of Insects! 🐛🔬
This project is perfect for curious minds who love nature, science, and solving mysteries in the insect world!
What Can Kids Learn from the “Don’t Bug Me!” Project?
🦋 Insect Identification: Learn to recognize common and scientific names of various insects, including their body parts and characteristics.
🔬 Classification Skills: Understand how insects are grouped based on shared traits and taxonomy (like orders and families).
🌎 Ecosystem Roles: Discover how insects help with pollination, decomposition, pest control, and more!
🧠 Observation & Research: Practice using field guides, diagrams, and magnifying tools to study insects closely.
📚 Science Vocabulary: Build a strong science foundation with terms like exoskeleton, metamorphosis, thorax, and antennae.
👩🔬 Scientific Thinking: Develop skills in comparing, contrasting, analyzing, and presenting scientific information.
Why It’s Bug-tastically Awesome:
Kids learn that bugs are not just creepy crawlies — they’re amazing creatures with important jobs. Whether identifying a praying mantis or understanding how bees help grow our food, this project builds science knowledge in a fun, interactive way.
Grab your magnifying glass and your curiosity — it’s time to explore the not-so-creepy world of insects in Don’t Bug Me!
Full Article
Video
Practice Game
Material List
- Unpacked eggs
- Handful straws
- Roll of tape
- Pair of Scissors
- Large Painter tarp
- Bin of balloons
Instructions
- Make a triangle out of a straw and tape it together.
- Repeat this two more times.
- Tape all 3 triangles together around the egg to make a pyramid shape.
- Decide how else to cushion the egg – for example: using more straws
- Spread the painter’s tarp on the floor.
- Hold your egg high above your head and drop it on the painter’s tarp.
- Did it work? If not try a different design.
- Be creative, test your own designs and materials (styrofoam, balloons, etc)
Question for thought:
Why is our device suitable for people to use all over the world? What are its advantages and what are its limitations?
