This document provides an introduction to insects by describing some of their key characteristics and adaptations that have enabled their success. It notes that insects were one of the first living creatures to inhabit Earth and have since diversified into over 1 million known species. Their small size allows insects to be highly mobile and agile while requiring minimal energy. Their hard exoskeleton, temperature regulation abilities, and other adaptations make insects well-suited to survive across various environments on Earth. The document then encourages hands-on examination of common insects like dragonflies and beetles to observe these traits firsthand.