Larger-Than-Life Fireflies

Fireflies are a sure sign of summer. In this replica habitat, these delightful insects will capture your imagination!

• 1.

  Study fireflies’ lives and habitats. Review your findings and then create a replica in a large, clear plastic jar. Shape Crayola Model Magic® grass, leaves, branches, rocks, and your firefly. These ideas will get you started.

• 2.

  Roll out long snake pieces of Model Magic compound to form grass. Flatten and cut leaves with Crayola Scissors or a craft stick. Roll a small piece of red and add some dots to form a lady bug. Shape a small ball of Model Magic into an acorn. Shape Model Magic branches on chenille stem or wire armatures. Air-dry the pieces flat for 3 days.

• 3.

  Make a larger-than-life firefly with Black Model Magic compound. Wrap the compound around a craft stick or other armature to form the bug’s body. Cut small pieces of wire for antennae, wrap them with Model Magic compound, and insert in the bug’s head.

• 4.

  To make wings, cut two small oval pieces of cardboard, cover with Model Magic designs, and attach to body. Press a piece of Model Magic compound on the bottom your bug. Air-dry your firefly for 3 days.

• 5.

  Mound crumpled foil in the bottom of the jar and cover with Model Magic compound to look like soil. Place the habitat pieces in the jar. Press one end of a wire or a chenille stem into the firefly and the other into the mound of soil. It will look like it

• 6.

  With a rolling pin, roll out more Model Magic compound. Cut out a circle larger than top of jar. Drape over the top for a realistic look. Air-dry your entire display (with the lid off). Model Magic® dries to the touch overnight and dries completely in 2 t

• 7.

  Secure the lid with a chenille stem.

Benefits

• Children research insects including fireflies and compare insects with other types of bugs and beetles.
• Students identify the types of leaves, trees, and flowers in which fireflies would be found.
• Students sculpt a realistic replica of a firefly in its natural habitat.

Adaptations

• Create habitats for animals or birds that are indigenous to your area. Which if any are endangered? How do they contribute to, or damage, the environment?
• Find out more about the chemical process that enables fireflies to glow in the dark.
• Make a list of bugs and insects. Hold a spelling bee with the list.
• Assessment: Are the replicas realistic models of the firefly? Are insects shown in their natural habitats?