Connecting Learning with Real-World Science
Grade 9 students take part in an Insect Conservation Project
A Collaborative Research Project
During the 2025/26 school year, two Grade 9 classes at our school took part in an exciting insect conservation project. The project was carried out in cooperation with the University of Leipzig (Department of Biology Education) and the VielFalterGarten citizen science project. Around eight schools in and around Leipzig participated in this research project, helping to investigate how young people can become more engaged in insect conservation.
Learning About Insects and Biodiversity
The project was divided into three modules. Students first explored the reasons for insect decline and discussed why insects play such an important role in healthy ecosystems. They also learned about practical ways to protect biodiversity and how everyone can make a positive contribution.
Creating a Butterfly-Friendly Habitat
One of the highlights of the project was the creation of a butterfly-friendly flower bed in our school garden. Working together, the students prepared the area and planted a variety of native flowering plants that provide food and shelter for butterflies and other pollinating insects.
During the first weeks after planting, the students showed great responsibility by regularly watering the new flower bed and ensuring that the young plants established well. Since the beginning of the summer holidays, a group of dedicated parents has kindly taken over the care of the bed, helping to ensure that it continues to thrive throughout the summer.
Citizen Science in Practice
As part of the project, students were invited to participate in weekly butterfly observations through the VielFalterGarten citizen science program. Although only a small number of students regularly took part in these butterfly observations, they contributed valuable data to a real scientific research project and gained first-hand experience of how citizen science supports biodiversity research.
Creative Contributions Beyond the Classroom
Two voluntary projects deserve special recognition.
Emilia designed a beautiful set of plant labels displaying the names of all the flowers and plants in the new butterfly bed. These signs not only make the flower bed more attractive but also help visitors learn about the different plant species.
Laura created an informative and engaging comic about insect conservation. The comic will be professionally printed and will become part of everyday school life, helping future students learn about the importance of protecting insects in a fun and accessible way.
Looking Back
The project gave our students the opportunity to combine scientific learning with practical environmental action. They learned about biodiversity, worked together to improve our school grounds, and experienced how research and everyday actions can go hand in hand.
We are proud of the commitment shown by our students, grateful for the support of the University of Leipzig, the VielFalterGarten project, and the dedicated parents who continue to care for the flower bed. We hope our butterfly-friendly garden will remain a colorful habitat for insects—and an inspiring learning space for future generations of students.