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Are butterflies the only animals that start out as caterpillars?

From Mystery Doug

Are butterflies the only animals that start out as caterpillars?
8 minK1st2nd3rd4th5thScience
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Summary

Mystery Doug takes on a real kid's question -- "Are butterflies the only animals that start out as caterpillars?" -- and follows the clues. No -- moths and other insects also go through big body changes, growing from larvae into very different-looking adults. A quick five-minute watch to spark curiosity and kick off a conversation.

Viewer safety

All ages
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Teaching resources

Discussion questions

Discussion

Doug investigates a question kids really asked: "Are butterflies the only animals that start out as caterpillars?"

  1. What was Doug's answer to today's question, in your own words?
  2. What surprised you most about metamorphosis, or what did you already know?
  3. What's one thing this makes you want to find out more about?

Quick work-a-long

Words to know: metamorphosis, larva, insect.

Try it: Explain the answer to "Are butterflies the only animals that start out as caterpillars?" to someone at home using these three words, then write down one new question it made you wonder.

Are butterflies the only animals that start out as caterpillars? — TV on a Rolling Cart