Information Possibly Outdated
The information presented on this page was originally released on May 8, 2008. It may not be outdated, but please search our site for more current information. If you plan to quote or reference this information in a publication, please check with the Extension specialist or author before proceeding.
MSU workshop teaches teachers about butterflies
MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Teachers have a unique opportunity in June to join a group of experts from around the world to study butterflies and moths.
The Lepidopterist Society is holding its 59th annual meeting at Mississippi State University June 23-27. Members from around the world will attend this meeting, and others are gathering for the annual meeting of the Lepidopterists of the Tropics and the Southeast Lepidopterists Society.
A workshop for teachers will take place concurrently to allow them to take advantage of the expertise gathered in one place. Teachers will have the opportunity to participate in sessions and the day and night trips to collect butterflies and moths.
“A number of outstanding lepidopterists will assist with the teacher workshop,” said John Guyton, event organizer and Extension Service specialist in MSU’s College of Forest Resources. “This is an incredible opportunity to collect with and learn from experts.”
The workshop will teach teachers how to collect and preserve moths and butterflies. Organizers will work with teachers to develop lesson plans and activities from workshop presentations.
Lesson plans developed during this workshop will be included in the Project Bug curriculum, which is patterned after the acclaimed Project Learning Tree. Participating teachers will be credited as developers of Project Bug and receive continuing education credits.
Collecting field trips are planned during the day June 24 and 25 at the Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge, and a nighttime expedition is scheduled June 24 at the Osborn Prairie, a remnant of the Black Belt Prairie. Teachers will be provided with the nets, kill jars and spreading boards they need for the activity.
After the conference, teachers will have access to a black light and other resources they can use when hosting night collecting outings for their students.
Registration is $85. For details, visit http://mississippientomologicalmuseum.org.msstate.edu or contact Guyton at (662) 325-3482 or jguyton@cfr.msstate.edu or David Held at (228) 388-4710 or dheld@ext.msstate.edu.
