During the inquiry unit, fifth-grade students had the opportunity to engage in a hands-on project about the life cycle of four animal species found in the school’s ecological area: grasshoppers, butterflies, pill bugs, and earthworms. As part of the experience, the children carefully recreated the habitats of these species, ensuring they provided an appropriate environment to closely observe their development. This project was carried out in collaboration with Alice, the fifth-grade English teacher, who supported the students in documenting their findings and enhancing their learning experience in the classroom. Over several weeks, they researched the life cycles, documented their findings, and became responsible caregivers by feeding the animals and monitoring their changes.

One of the most exciting moments occurred when, coinciding with the school holidays, some students took the habitats home. This allowed them to continue observing the transformation process, such as the formation of cocoons and the emergence of butterflies, which they later released with great enthusiasm. This direct contact with nature enabled them to witness firsthand the fragility and beauty of life cycles, reinforcing their understanding of the importance of every living being in ecosystems.