Life Cycles

Life Cycles of Organisms (K-4)

* Plants and animals have life cycles that include being born, developing into adults, reproducing, and dying. Life cycles are different for different organisms. * Plants and animals closely resemble their parents. * Many characteristics of an organism are inherited from their parents, but other characteristics result from an individual's interactions with the environment. (NSES, 1996)

In the rectangle above, you will find the fundamental concepts and principles that underlie this standard. Below you will find a list of recommended "learning tools" for this standard. All links are in yellow, just click the link. Numbers are for reference only. Use our "Tell a Friend" feature, at the bottom, to send this page to a friend!

Cocoon.org is a wonderful web site to learn about the life cycles of butterflies and many other insects. The site is filled with resources for teachers and students. These include; print and color pages, video corner, many animations, articles , and lots more.

The name of this "learning tool" is called Life Cycles. Use the blue arrows in the upper right hand corner to go through the simulation. This tool has been developed by the bbc.co.uk and their Science Clips program. These are very clear, concise, and effective lessons for young students. Flash is required.

The name of this "learning tool" is called Helping Plants Grow Well. Use the blue arrows in the upper right hand corner to go through the simulation. This tool has been developed by the bbc.co.uk and their Science Clips program. These are very clear, concise, and effective lessons for young students. Flash is required.

Another wonderful web site to learn about butterflies and their life cycle is called The Children's Butterfly Site. This creative and engaging site is filled with resources. These resources include; coloring pages, a FAQ about butterfly behavior, etc., photographs, stories, and teaching and learning tools. A great site!

This simple, yet effective "learning tool" is called PEACHES - Ladybugs Save the Roses. Students can learn the life cycle of a ladybug while eating aphids and saving the roses. This is presented by the Lawrence Hall of Science.

This "learning tools is brought to us by the Beal Early Childhood Center. This simple visual lesson is called Butterfly Life Cycle. Just click and learn.