Lesson Idea | Ants in the Wild

This Grade 1–3 life science activity engages students in observing and experimenting with ants in their natural habitat. After sketching an ant from memory, students head outdoors to watch ants’ movements and behaviors, then conduct simple experiments such as interrupting their trail, placing obstacles, or offering food to see how ants respond and adapt. Students record their findings, follow ant trails, and later return to the classroom to create illustrated observation stories using data sheets. This hands-on lesson builds observation, data collection, and critical thinking skills while fostering curiosity about animal behavior and the natural world.