Examine real insects preserved in resin, use magnifiers to spot important details, and match each specimen to its correct information card.
Insect Detective invites students to step into the role of a junior scientist as they observe real insects preserved in clear resin. Using magnifiers, participants study each specimen up close and look for clues such as wings, legs, body shape, colors, and patterns before matching it to the correct insect information card.
This activity encourages careful observation, comparison, and critical thinking in a hands-on format that is both approachable and exciting. Younger children can focus on noticing simple features and making visual matches, while older students can think more deeply about insect anatomy, adaptation, and classification.
With real specimens, simple tools, and a quick challenge format, Insect Detective is an engaging STEAMfest activity that blends science discovery with the fun of solving a mystery.
STEAMteam
STEAMfest is made possible with the help of hundreds of organizations and volunteers, both within the Woodlawn School Community and without. The STEAMteam is responsible for the planning, promotion, organization, and execution of STEAMfest.
Each year the STEAMteam creates a number of activity booths based on the teams skills and experience.
Meet The STEAMteam
