This lab investigates the connection between bees and Aster, a common flowering plant. Students will go outside to a patch of aster with bees and actively collect data to solve the question "How have bees and aster coevolved"? I use this for AP Environmental Science, but it would work well in any science classroom grades 6-12.

This purchase includes a 5 page student handout which includes a pre-lab reading and questions, procedure, data entry sheet, data analysis, and post-lab questions. There is also a teacher guide/answer key provided.

This lab is a great way to get students outside and active in their learning! You will witness kids running around chasing bees and working as a team with their partner. The lesson covers a multitude of topics such as symbiotic relationships, ecosystem services, coevolution, and adaptations.

Materials needed: Outdoor space with aster and bees, clipboards.

Note: Make sure that there is a species of aster available and that you go at a time when bees will be active. There are many species of Aster. This lab works with any species of aster with some red central discs and some yellow central discs, including Calico Aster, New England Aster, White Wood Aster, New York Aster, etc. Aster blooms in late summer into fall. Bees are active from mid morning to afternoon in non-rainy conditions.