Career · Lesson Plan

Becoming an Entomologist

A career-exploration lesson on entomologists — scientists who study insects. Students learn where entomologists work, how insects can be both harmful and helpful, sub-specialties in the field, and how someone becomes an entomologist.

Grades 5–8 Lesson Plan 30–45 minutes Free Lesson Plan Lesson & Worksheet: Full Membership

Becoming an entomologist career lesson illustration

For Teachers

Lesson at a glance

Topic: Career
Grade Level: Grades 5–8
Resource Type: Lesson + Worksheet
Estimated Time: 30–45 minutes
Format: Reading + worksheet
Materials: Printable lesson, worksheet, whiteboard

What Students Learn

Learning objectives

Explain what an entomologist is and the activities they do
Describe two sub-specialties in the field of entomology
Name places where an entomologist might work
Describe how insects can be both problematic and beneficial
Explain how a person can become an entomologist

Materials

What you’ll need

Printed copies of the lesson reading and worksheet (one per student)
Whiteboard or projector for discussion
Optional: internet access for career research

Key Terms

Vocabulary

Entomologist: A scientist who studies insects.
Entomology: The scientific study of insects.
Lepidopterist: An entomologist who specializes in butterflies and moths.
Apiculturist: An entomologist who raises and studies bees.
Pest: An insect that causes damage to crops, buildings, or health.
Beneficial insect: An insect that helps, such as bees or ladybugs.

For Teachers

Lesson plan

Estimated time: one 30–45 minute class period.

Lesson sequence

Introduction (5 min). Ask whether insects are pests or helpers. Introduce the scientists who study them.
Read the lesson (12 min). Students read about entomologists’ work and sub-specialties.
Discussion (10 min). Cover harmful vs. beneficial insects and specialties like lepidopterists and apiculturists.
Worksheet (10 min). Students complete the worksheet; the answer key is included for teacher use.
Wrap-up (3 min). Students name a helpful insect and how it helps.

Assessment

Assess participation and the completed worksheet.

Discussion

Discussion questions

What does an entomologist study, and where do they work?
What are two sub-specialties within entomology?
How can insects be problems for people?
How are some insects beneficial to the environment or people?
How can a person become an entomologist?

Printable Lesson & Worksheet