How Can We Make Better Food for Honeybees?
Scientific Reports
Grades6, 7, 8, 9Biology
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Provided by Science Journal for Kids
What it is
- This article describes a research study in which scientists genetically engineered yeast to produce sterols — essential nutrients missing from commercial honeybee food substitutes — and tested whether this improved food could support healthy honeybee colony development.
- The article includes an audio version, a worksheet, a teacher's key, and links to related resources.
Teaching tips
Prerequisites:
- Ensure students understand how human activities and climate change have contributed to the reduction in flowering plants.
- Activate prior knowledge by asking students why pollinators matter to food systems and what they think happens when bees cannot get proper nutrition.
Preparation:
- Note that teachers will need to provide some information, such as email and school, to access the Teacher's Key.
Classroom Implementation:
- Prep this as a ready-to-go substitute activity for students to read with a partner or as a class and answer the included question.
- Use this in conjunction with a lesson about the importance of pollinators and the threats they face. Consider using this lesson.
Extensions:
- Have students research native, bee-friendly plants that would be a good fit for a classroom garden.
From the scientist review
This resource is an adaptation of a peer-reviewed article that details a project to produce an improved pollen substitute for feeding honeybees. All key findings are highlighted in the text, and a clear glossary of terms is included. The project is connected to climate change in a thoughtful discussion. This resource is recommended for teaching.
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