March 2016

Bees are dying and scientists don’t have a definitive explanation. So it is time for everyone to take action. As teachers, we have the opportunity to encourage kids to do their part. Here are three resources, two books and – bonus! – a link for free seed packets to help you get started in your classroom.

1. What’s the Buzz? Keeping Bees in Flight (Grades 4-7)
Not all buzzing yellow and black insects are bees and not all bees sting. These are just a couple of the myths dispelled in this thorough introduction to bees.

What’s the Buzz? author Merrie-Ellen Wilcox is an experienced B.C. apiculturist (beekeeper). She shares her knowledge and passion for bees in this informative, accessible book that is filled with bee facts and tips on how to help bees survive. The photos and diagrams throughout the book add visual appeal and will engage students to read on and take action for the planet.

2. See the book review below for the second book we recommend about bees.

3. The Canadian Wildlife Federation is offering free pollinator seed packets to educators to encourage classes to plant nectar- and pollen-rich flowers to attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds who keep our ecosystems healthy. 

The Case of the Vanishing Honeybees: A Scientific Mystery
by Sandra Markle
Reading level: Grades 4-7

Honeybees are dying in vast numbers around the world. Can scientists find the culprit in time to save them?

An intriguing combination of science and mystery, The Case of the Vanishing Honeybees manages to make a complex issue both accessible and relevant to a young audience. Students are bound to come away with a new appreciation for bees. This book is a great source for student reports, and can spur children on to further research and action with recommended readings and ways to help honeybees.

Get more BC SPCA book recommendations online.

Birds, bees and butterflies might not spring to mind when thinking about helping the BC SPCA, but they are a vital part of our food system. In fact, bees alone are responsible for pollinating a third of all the foods we eat!

Help keep our farms and ecosystems healthy by planting flowers that attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds, creating a bee bath or building a mason bee house. All of these pollinators are critical to our food system and they need our help.

Spring is the perfect time to starting thinking about gardens and flowers. Is there a space at your school where you could scatter some seeds? If not, you could start some seedlings in small pots or make bee houses and offer them by donation as a fundraiser for your club. Your local garden centre may even let you set up a table at their store.

When the BC SPCA seized 66 dogs from a puppy mill in early February it was a tough day. Those tough times were quickly replaced with awe when we were overwhelmed with the generosity that people showed. From food, blankets, toys and beds the public responded in a huge and heartfelt way.

Watch the two-minute thank you video to see not only the staff appreciation but also from the pups we rescued.

Learn more about this news item and other BC SPCA news that you may want to include in class discussions.

Kindness counts
(Primary)

  Bite free
(Primary/intermediate)

Making the right choice
(Intermediate)

You can make a difference
(Intermediate)

  The farm-food connection
(Intermediate)

Cats in the community
(Intermediate)

Including animals in social justice
(Intermediate/Secondary)

You are receiving this BC SPCA e-Teacher newsletter to  because you have subscribed or are affiliated with a BC SPCA School Club. Login to update your contact information and email subscriptions or unsubscribe (we're sorry to see you go!).

On behalf of all the animals we care for and protect, thank you for your support.