When is Milkweed First Sighted Across the States and How Does that Relate to Monarch Butterfly Movement?

APRIL 2021

This interactive map, created by JourneyNorth, allows the public to report a sighting of milkweed in their area and adds those sightings to a state map. Sightings of monarch butterflies can also be reported and will be tracked. Many other plants and animal sightings can be recorded on JourneyNorth's page as well. This data allows the public to become citizen scientists as they aid in tracking migrations and seasons across the United States. 

Use the map to see what has been sighted and reported in your state. Check out the drop-down menu to switch to monarch butterfly sightings. Do you notice any patterns?

Students

  1. After viewing the map above, think about these three questions:
    • What do you notice?
    • What do you wonder? What are you curious about that comes from what you notice in the map?
    • What might be going on in this graph? Write a catchy headline that captures the main idea. If your headline makes a claim, write what you noticed that supports your claim.
    The questions are intended to build on one another, so try to answer them in order. Start with “I notice,” then “I wonder,” and end with “The story this map is telling is ….” and a catchy headline.
  2. Next, join the conversation by adding to the discussion below. (Students 13 and older are invited to comment, although teachers of younger students are welcome to post what their students have to say.)
  3. After you have posted, read what others have said, then respond to someone else by posting a comment. Use the “Reply” button to address another student directly.
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