An excuse to mess around with bugs? Let’s learn about the insects that transmit diseases in this hands-on STEM bug activity you can do at home. Kids create their own mosquito traps and gain insights into the field of medical entomology. By understanding the role of mosquitoes in disease transmission and exploring effective trapping techniques, kids will develop a greater appreciation for the importance of mosquito control. This is something that kids learn in our Wilderness Medicine programs. Let’s get hands-on and dive into the world of medical entomology!
Exploring Medical Entomology Through Mosquito Traps STEM Bug Activity
Supplies needed:
– Empty plastic bottle (e.g., soda bottle)
– Black construction paper
– Scissors
– Tape
– Yeast
– Sugar
– Warm water
– Measuring spoons
– Optional: Permanent marker and string or wire for hanging the trap
Instructions:
Step 1: For this STEM bug activity, start by cleaning and drying the plastic bottle. Remove any labels or stickers.
Step 2: With the help of an adult, carefully cut the top third of the bottle off. This portion will serve as the trap’s collection chamber.
Step 3: Wrap the lower portion of the bottle with the black construction paper. This will attract heat and make it more appealing to mosquitoes.
Step 4: Secure the black paper with tape, ensuring that there are no gaps or openings for mosquitoes to escape.
Step 5: In a separate container, mix 1 tablespoon of sugar with 1 cup of warm water. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 6: Allow the sugar water to cool slightly, then pour it into the bottom portion of the plastic bottle.
Step 7: Add 1 teaspoon of yeast to the sugar-water mixture. The yeast will create carbon dioxide, which attracts mosquitoes.
Step 8: Place the top portion of the bottle (collection chamber) upside down into the bottom portion (sugar water mixture). Ensure a snug fit.
Step 9: Seal any gaps between the two parts of the bottle with tape to prevent mosquitoes from escaping.
Step 10: Optionally, you can label the trap with “Mosquito Trap” using a permanent marker.
Step 11: If desired, create a hole near the top of the trap and thread a string or wire through it for hanging the trap outdoors.
Step 12: Find an appropriate location to place the mosquito trap, such as near a window or in the yard. Mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide produced by the yeast, so placing it in an area with little air movement is ideal.
Step 13: Observe the trap over time and check for captured mosquitoes. Note the different species and discuss their potential roles in disease transmission.
Safety Tips:
– Adult supervision is recommended, especially when handling sharp objects and using yeast.
– Remind children to avoid direct contact with mosquitoes and to wash their hands after handling the trap.
While monitoring the mosquito trap, take the opportunity to share educational insights about medical entomology in this STEM bug activity. Discuss the role of mosquitoes in disease transmission, such as malaria, dengue fever, or Zika virus. Explain how mosquitoes locate their hosts through cues like carbon dioxide and body heat. Also, explore effective strategies for mosquito control, including trapping, repellents, and elimination of breeding sites.
By creating their own mosquito traps, children engage in hands-on exploration of medical entomology. This STEM bug activity promotes a greater understanding of mosquito behavior, disease transmission, and the importance of mosquito control for public health. Through observation and discussion, kids gain insights into the fascinating world of medical entomology and the critical role these insects play in our lives. So, let’s bug off and learn more about mosquitoes and their impact!
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