The Hungry Caterpillar

Project Title: The Hungry Caterpillar

Description: Read the Hungry Caterpillar and have the children create their own beautiful butterfly out of fabric.

Author: Liza

Grade level or Targeted Age Range: Preschool to early elementary

Historical Art Examples or References: N/A

Vocabulary: cocoon, symmetry, nibble, caterpillar, butterfly, moon

Materials: Large paper, glue, variety of fabric cutouts (size and shapes), scissors, The Hungry Caterpillar Book By Eric Carle, The Hungry Caterpillar Puppet

Anticipatory Set:  Engage students into the story by having them make predictions and answer questions

Demo / Directions:

  1. Introduce story with puppet
  2. Read story while asking questions below
  3. Then have 6-8 children sit together to work on the butterfly.
  4. Place the various fabric samples on the table so the children can choose the color and designs they desire.
  5. Place glue all over butterfly
  6. Then begin by placing fabric on butterfly
  7. While doing it make sure the children are keeping symmetry by saying John placed a blue square here so where does that blue square have to go to be on the opposite side of it

Discussion:

  1. What do you think the egg is going to turn into?
  2.  He is a hungry caterpillar what do you think he is looking for?
  3. What color is this fruit on Monday?
  4. How many pears did he eat on Tuesday? Show me with your fingers.
  5. On Wednesday what would you like to it?
  6. On Thursday what color are the strawberries?
  7. On Friiday he was still hungry what do you think he is going to do?
  8. After he ate all that food do you think hes a big fat caterpillar or a small caterpillar?
  9. What do you think this cocoon is going to turn into?

Instructional Reflection:  I think the students being engaged in the book through the questions was very beneficial. I think creating a butterfly out of fabric was a great way for the students to learn about symmetry.