
What is Insect Discovery?
Insect Discovery is a University of Arizona outreach program primarily for elementary school students. The program sparks students’ scientific curiosity through hands-on activities using live and preserved insects.
Children are natural scientists, and early engagement in science learning is important both to stimulate interest in a scientific career and to promote general scientific literacy. In Arizona, insects are major component of the 2nd grade science curriculum. Our program provides a variety of resources, including classroom visits, workshops and lesson plans, to help teachers make the most of their students’ fascination with the amazing and diverse world of insects.
Insect Discovery is a University of Arizona outreach program primarily for elementary school students. The program sparks students’ scientific curiosity through hands-on activities using live and preserved insects.
Children are natural scientists, and early engagement in science learning is important both to stimulate interest in a scientific career and to promote general scientific literacy. In Arizona, insects are major component of the 2nd grade science curriculum. Our program provides a variety of resources, including classroom visits, workshops and lesson plans, to help teachers make the most of their students’ fascination with the amazing and diverse world of insects.
Program Goals:
- Spark an early interest in science and bring basic science concepts to life.
- Encourage students to use observational, critical thinking, and problem solving skills to formulate questions and test hypotheses.
- Instill an appreciation for the amazing and important insects all around us.
- Introduce young students to the university and give UA students a chance to give back to the Tucson community.

Program Statistics:
Since 2005 we have reached over 20,000 school children, and trained close to 150 UA students.
In a typical year we reach about 3000 children in 40 schools, with 45 workshops and over 100 classroom visits.
The majority of schools participating in Insect Discovery are Title I (more than 50% of students receive free or reduced price lunch) and have over 50% minority enrollment.
Since 2005 we have reached over 20,000 school children, and trained close to 150 UA students.
In a typical year we reach about 3000 children in 40 schools, with 45 workshops and over 100 classroom visits.
The majority of schools participating in Insect Discovery are Title I (more than 50% of students receive free or reduced price lunch) and have over 50% minority enrollment.
Logo design and site layout by CM Gibson, 2014.