IPM fun with insects, weeds and the environment

2007 Impact statement
  • Klass, Carolyn

abstract

Curriculum on insects, weeds and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the school and schoolyard for third and fourth grade elementary school students were prepared, piloted and revised. Tools used by entomologists and turfgrass managers were demonstrated and practical hands-on use by students was conducted.

submitted by

issue being addressed

An opportunity arose to work with local schools in the Ithaca, NY, area to bring Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to students, teachers and grounds workers. We were able to work effectively as a team in the two pilot classrooms, designing a packet of 4 lessons which covered insects, weeds and IPM. Curriculum materials were piloted and revised with suggestions from students and teachers. Workshops for grounds managers and structural IPM in schools were also held.

response

We teamed up with two science teachers in the Ithaca schools system to introduce students to scientists from the Cornell Community. Integrated Pest Management (IPM), insects and weeds in the school community were discussed, trying some ideas with students to help them understand the IPM concept, and have a hands-on experience with the tools an IPM manager uses in his/her work. We were able to use the school grounds as our classroom, which gave students a sense of ownership and pride in their school settings.

impact assessment

Forty students participated in our workshops, and took home materials and ideas to share with parents. Those students learned that not all insects and weeds are bad, and that they should evaluate a situation before they decide to use a pesticide to just kill insects and weeds when found.

academic priority area

topic description

Entomology

has geographic focus

funding source description

  • Park Foundation Grant to develop project
  • Smith-Lever 3(b) & (c)

collaborators

  • NYS IPM Program
  • Ithaca School District
  • STOMNY

key personnel

  • Deb Marvin
  • Joann Gruttadaurio
  • Jennifer Grant
  • Lynn Braband
  • Patricia Gaines
  • Janie Clark

mission focus

From CALS annual faculty reporting. Imported on August 5, 2008