Life Cycle of the Caterpillar

Use these cards to build language and knowledge.


Read the book: “From Caterpillar to Butterfly”
by: Deborah Heiligman and Weissman

Materials needed: 

• 3x5 index cards
• pictures of the life cycle of the caterpillar (butterfly)
• glue
• marker
• laminate or contact paper
• construction paper

Directions for nomenclature cards: Glue duplicate pictures to a pair of individual cards. Laminate cards.


On one card write at the bottom what the picture is. (Use one word.) Laminate cards.

The other card will only have the picture.
Take a card, cut it in half, and write the word that goes along with the picture.

Directions, parts of the butterfly: Glue duplicate butterfly pictures, to a pair of 8x11 pieces of construction paper. The picture should almost fill the space. Laminate picture.
Label the parts of the butterfly on one picture, leave the other blank.
Cut a number of cards in half lengthwise. Write the names of the different parts of the butterfly. Laminate cards.
Instructions: Show the children the card with the description at the bottom. Let the child lead the discussion about what is on the card, and introduce the word card. Set out the card with just the picture. Let the child lead the discussion about what is on the card. Hand the child the word card and let them place it on the picture.

After introducing every card, show the children the life cycle of the caterpillar (butterfly). Let them try to put them in order. Gently assist if needed.
Set cards in one basket, and words in another basket. Place together in a tray.
Let the children use the cards on their own or in pairs. Gently assist only when needed.
Use the same process with the parts of the butterfly.