Students explore a local natural area to identify nectar-producing plants, observe pollinators, and reflect on their findings.
The intention is to learn about the most common melliferous plants and their pollinators in the local area.
Choose a nearby natural area (e.g., meadow) that’s large enough for students to spread out and has insects to observe.
Inform the students that they will be going outside so they can bring suitable footwear and clothing.
Printing the Honey Plants Fieldwork – Worksheets.
Work in groups of 3–4 students.
Each group receives a worksheet with these columns to fill in:
Plant name
Description (color, flower shape, flowering time)
Observation location
Pollinator observed? (yes/no) — watch for bees, butterflies, or other insects visiting the flowers
Use books, posters, or mobile apps like PlantNet or iNaturalist to help identify plants.
Take photos of the plants if possible to help with identification and records.
Reflect and Share Findings. After the fieldwork, each group shares 2–3 plants they observed, along with whether they saw pollinators visiting them. Encourage students to compare their findings:
Here the methods Photo Safari, Pattern Grouping or the Knowledge Wall can be useful.
Use a field journal or sketchbook. Let students draw plants or insects they see.
Introduce a ‘Wonder Question’. Before going outside, have each student or group write a “wonder” question (e.g., “Do bees prefer certain flower colors?”). They can reflect on this afterward. You can use the Statements of Wonder method.
Assessment or portfolio use. Have students include their worksheet, photos, and reflection in a nature or science portfolio.
| Engage | Investigate |