Build-A-Bug Contest

What is the Build-A-Bug Contest?

Build-A-Bug was invented by Jackie Wagner, a 9th grade teacher at Penns Valley Junior/Senior High School. We have adapted her lesson plans to create the Build-A-Bug contest. Participants build biologically correct insects, which are judged by a committee from the Department of Entomology. Prizes will be awarded at each grade level. Build-A-Bug is an easy, fun and creative way to learn about the world of insects.

Who can enter?

Anyone in grades kindergarten to 6th. Teachers, you can do Build-A-Bug as a class project and enter your student's creations.

Teacher's guide (Catch the Bug - 4H Leader's Guide) and other resources.

Contest Rules:

1. Your model must be an INSECT or other ARTHROPOD. Note: Your insect does not have to live in the United States.
2. Your insect must be between 6-12 inches long, and sturdy. The combined insect and habitat cannot exceed 12 inches long x 12 inches wide.
3. Be accurate when building your model (appropriate proportions, true color and form, etc.).
4. The more detail your model has, the better.
5. A written description must accompany your model and include:
• The common name of the insect
• The scientific name of the order to which it belongs
• A brief description of the insect's habitat
• Where the insect is located geographically
• At least 2 interesting, and unique facts about the insect you have modeled ("it has 6 legs and 3 body segments" doesn't count)
• Your name and address on model description

There are no restrictions on the type of building materials that can be used. Models in the past were built with clay, wire, felt, Styrofoam, pipe cleaners, nylon stockings, etc. We encourage you to be as creative as you can!  Note that this rule has changed from previous years.

Choosing the Winners:

One winning model will be chosen for each grade level by a committee from the Penn State Entomology Department. Winners will be announced at 1:00 P.M.

All winning models will become a part of our Public Education Program for one year and can be reclaimed at the next year's Great Insect Fair. They will be prominently displayed around the hallways of the Department of Entomology, and used as examples for future Build-A-Bug contests. Winning entries will also be displayed on the Great Insect Fair website.

How to Enter:

If you decide to make a model for the contest, please mail or fax your preregistration form to the address or fax number below. This will reserve a spot for you in the exhibit area. (TEACHERS - you must preregister your students by September 26th. Contact the Entomology Department for special instructions.) Then bring your model to the Fair by 9:30 A.M. on October 3, 2009.

REMINDER: PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS ARE LISTED SOMEWHERE ON YOUR MODEL DESCRIPTION!

If you have any questions about the Build-A-Bug Contest, contact
Entomology Department
814-865-1895
FAX: 814-865-3048
Email: entomology@psu.edu

Preregistration mailing address:
Build-A-Bug Registration
Department of Entomology
Penn State University
501 ASI Building
University Park, PA 16802