science observing tad poles first grade lesson

On the other side of the paper, have them write the different animals they saw. Have students fold the paper in half and use one side of the paper to list the different plants they saw. Have students remain in groups and give each group a large sheet of paper (such as butcher paper) and markers or crayons. So it is less intimidating for students, divide the class in groups of about four students, then have each member of the group show his or her page in the Nature Notebook, telling what he/she likes about it. Instruct each student to draw their favorite part of the field trip, and then write about it in 1-2 sentences (older students may be instructed to write 3-4 sentences).ĮXPLORE: After returning from the field trip, have each student share one page from their Nature Notebook. Have them each bring a notebook and pencil or pen, so they can write notes and draw pictures.Īfter the tour, or at various times throughout the field trip if you are acting as guide, have students stop, sit down, and write or draw about what they’ve seen. On the day of the field trip, tell students they are going to go out of the class to learn about plants and animals. Make sure the guide knows how many students you have and their ages, so s/he knows what to expect. If you are going to a botanical garden, zoo, or farm, get someone as a tour guide. Look for places where you can observe caterpillars and butterflies, tadpoles and frogs, or chicks and chickens.īe sure to get permission for the field trip and have parents sign a permission slip for their child. You can go to a nearby botanical garden, butterfly garden, zoo, farm, or park.

Whiteboard and markers (or use a chalkboard, smart board, projector, etc.)ĮNGAGE: Before the lesson begins, plan a field trip for the students.

Field guides – wildflowers, trees, birds, insects, etc.Markers (or use crayons to draw on the butcher paper).Butcher paper (or other large sheets of paper – enough for each group to have one sheet, with a few extras just in case).Nature Notebook, or other small, sturdy journal or notebook (one for each student).

Understanding that plants and animals are alive, though they are very different from each other, is also important for each student to know before starting this lesson. Students should be familiar with different kinds of animals. Prior Knowledge: No extended prior knowledge is needed. Identify the stages in the life cycle of one animal or plant, by drawing each stage.Show what they learned about life cycles with drawings and writing from their Nature Notebook.Note: Parts of the lesson may be adapted, based on amount of time available, student ability, and grade levels.Īfter this lesson, students will be able to: Part of the lesson will be done in the classroom and part will be outside. Students will compare the life cycle of a plant to that of an animal in this hands-on activity. This lesson for elementary students (grades 1-4) teaches about Life Science using an inquiry approach.

Science observing tad poles first grade lesson