These lesson plans are designed to help young students practice their observation skills and learn about the life cycles of plants and animals. Observation is a crucial component to scientific inquiry as well as many basic life skills.

Credits: Samantha Brewer
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seed ball

Exploring Phenology with Seed Balls 

Grades: K-2

In this activity, your students will make seed balls that can be planted in an outdoor space. They will make observations about the different plants in their area, and record what they observe. This activity encourages young children to practice their observational skills to learn more about the natural world around them.

Outdoor activity; 20-30 minutes 

Credits: Samantha Brewer
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Bird feeder made out of a toilet paper tube

Observing Bird Behaviors 

Grades: K-2

In this activity, your students construct a bird feeder using basic materials, hang their feeders at a safe outdoor location, and observe the behaviors of the birds who visit. They will learn about why birds are important to ecosystems, and different seasonal patterns of birds such as nest building and migration. 

Outdoor activity; 20-30 minutes for craft, 20 minutes per day for 5 days for observations

 

Credits: Samantha Brewer
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Radish Sprouts

Observing Plant Growth and Development

Grades: K-2

In this activity, your students will germinate their own seeds and record their observations in a nature journal. They will learn about the parts of a plant, and what plants need to grow. Then, they will provide their sprouts with soil, water, and sunlight, and see how they grow and change. 

Indoor activity; 20-30 minutes per day for 5 days