We all know caterpillars become butterflies, but what really happens within the chrysalis?

In this article COSMOS science communicator, Imma Perfetto, with help from Associate Professor Darrell Kemp peers inside to show us that not all metamorphoses are created equal. With 60% of all described animal species undergoing metamorphosis, using technology to enhance our knowledge of what takes place is key. Use the article alongside Biological Science topics including reproduction, classification, and cells to further student knowledge and understanding of science in action. The associated Teacher Resource includes a set of STEM Discovery Questions, use them to conduct class or small group discussions or to create an article review task.

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The magic of metamorphosis

by Imma Perfetto

for COSMOS Magazine Issue 102

According to Associate Professor Darrell Kemp, from Macquarie University, 60% of all described animal species undergo metamorphosis, suggesting it must be a pretty useful way to live.

In COSMOS Magazines Issue 102, science communicator, Imma Perfetto, peers inside all things metamorphosis. Working with Darrell Kemp, associate professor in biology at Macquarie University, Imma helps us understand how butterflies are the same creature as creepy, crawly caterpillars. Imma and Darrell helps us learn more about the amazing transformation that happens for over 60% of all described species.

Join Imma and Darrell as they explore:

What is metamorphosis?
Why some animals metamorphose?
What happens inside the chrysalis?
How has medical technology helped us learn if caterpillars actually turn to soupy mush, before emerging as majestic butterflies?
and more.

Scroll down to access a FREE copy of the full article and a the related Teacher Resource.

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The teacher resource includes a student resource idea focusing on ‘Sharing Understanding’, ‘Investigating Content’, ‘Communicating & Collaborating’. Students can demonstrate their understanding of the article content and related STEM knowledge via a set of STEM DISCOVERY QUESTIONS. Focused on the development of content understanding, inquiry skills and information analysis. Use the questions to conduct class or small group discussions, or create an individual review and reflection task.

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Years:

7-8 & 10

Learning Connections

Student Skill Summary

Discussion and Collaboration
Inquiry and Exploration

Australian Curriculum Connections - Version 9.0

Sub Strand	Content Descriptor
Biological Sciences	The study of Biological Sciences develops an understanding of living things, including animals, plants and microorganisms, and their interdependence and interactions within ecosystems. Students explore life cycles, body systems, structural adaptations and behaviours; how these features aid survival; and how characteristics are inherited from one generation to the next. They consider the interdependence of biological systems at a range of scales, and identify how these systems respond to change.
STEM Endeavours & Innovations	By developing understanding of scientific human endeavours students learn about the nature of science, including the role of science inquiry in developing science knowledge, and the factors that affect the use and advancement of science. They come to understand and appreciate that through science, humans seek to improve their understanding of and explanations for the natural and physical world, that our science knowledge can be refined and revised as new evidence becomes available, and that science influences society by posing and responding to ethical, environmental and social questions. Science as a Human Endeavour showcases ‘STEM in Action’; highlighting the development of science as a unique way of knowing and doing, the role of science in contemporary decision-making and problem-solving, and acknowledging the need to consider ethical and social implications. .

Sub Strand

Content Descriptor

Biological Sciences

The study of Biological Sciences develops an understanding of living things, including animals, plants and microorganisms, and their interdependence and interactions within ecosystems. Students explore life cycles, body systems, structural adaptations and behaviours; how these features aid survival; and how characteristics are inherited from one generation to the next. They consider the interdependence of biological systems at a range of scales, and identify how these systems respond to change.

STEM Endeavours & Innovations

By developing understanding of scientific human endeavours students learn about the nature of science, including the role of science inquiry in developing science knowledge, and the factors that affect the use and advancement of science. They come to understand and appreciate that through science, humans seek to improve their understanding of and explanations for the natural and physical world, that our science knowledge can be refined and revised as new evidence becomes available, and that science influences society by posing and responding to ethical, environmental and social questions. Science as a Human Endeavour showcases ‘STEM in Action’; highlighting the development of science as a unique way of knowing and doing, the role of science in contemporary decision-making and problem-solving, and acknowledging the need to consider ethical and social implications. .

Concept - AC	Concept - SA
Diversity and Evolution	Diversity and Evolution

Australian Curriculum Connections - Version 8.4

Sub Strand	Year Level	Key Idea	Concept - AC	Concept - SA	Content Topic	Content Code	Content Descriptor
Biological Sciences	7	Pattern, order and organisation	Diversity and Evolution	Diversity and Evolution	Living Things: Classification	ACSSU111	Classification helps organise the diverse group of organisms
	10	Form and function	Diversity and Evolution \| Structure and Function	Diversity and Evolution \| Form and Function	DNA, Genetics and Hereditary	ACSSU184	Transmission of heritable characteristics from one generation to the next involves DNA and genes
	10	Stability and change	Diversity and Evolution	Diversity and Evolution	Evolution and Biodiversity	ACSSU185	The theory of evolution by natural selection explains the diversity of living things and is supported by a range of scientific evidence
						ACSSU150	Multi-cellular organisms contain systems of organs carrying out specialised functions that enable them to survive and reproduce

Sub Strand	Year Level	Content Topic	Content Code	Content Descriptor
Nature and Development of Science	7	Collaboration and Cultural Diversity Further Scientific Knowledge	ACSHE223	Science knowledge can develop through collaboration across the disciplines of science and the contributions of people from a range of cultures
	7	Scientific Knowledge Changes Our Understanding of the World	ACSHE119	Scientific knowledge has changed peoples’ understanding of the world and is refined as new evidence becomes available
	8	Scientific Knowledge Changes Our Understanding of the World	ACSHE134	Scientific knowledge has changed peoples’ understanding of the world and is refined as new evidence becomes available
	8	Collaboration and Cultural Diversity Further Scientific Knowledge	ACSHE226	Science knowledge can develop through collaboration across the disciplines of science and the contributions of people from a range of cultures
	10	Refinement of Scientific Understanding, Models and Theories Evolves	ACSHE191	Scientific understanding, including models and theories, is contestable and is refined over time through a process of review by the scientific community
	10	Advancements in Scientific Understanding Rely on Technological Advancements	ACSHE192	Advances in scientific understanding often rely on technological advances and are often linked to scientific discoveries
Use and Influence of Science	7	Societal and Ethical Impacts of Scientific and Technological Solutions	ACSHE120	Solutions to contemporary issues that are found using science and technology, may impact on other areas of society and may involve ethical considerations
	7	Use of Science Understanding and Skills in Occupations	ACSHE121	People use science understanding and skills in their occupations and these have influenced the development of practices in areas of human activity
	8	Societal and Ethical Impacts of Scientific and Technological Solutions	ACSHE135	Solutions to contemporary issues that are found using science and technology, may impact on other areas of society and may involve ethical considerations
	8	Use of Science Understanding and Skills in Occupations	ACSHE136	People use science understanding and skills in their occupations and these have influenced the development of practices in areas of human activity
	10	Societal Values and Needs can Influence Scientific Research	ACSHE230	Values and needs of contemporary society can influence the focus of scientific research

COSMOS MAGAZINE – The Magic of Metamorphosis

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