Winter in the Desert
Explore winter characteristics
This lesson plan explores the characteristics of winter, engaging K-3 students through a blend of Project-Based Learning, Active Learning, and Game-Based Learning. Students will learn about winter's unique features, how plants and animals adapt, and create a collaborative project to showcase their understanding. This lesson is important as it helps students appreciate seasonal changes and develop critical thinking and creativity skills.
Project-Based Learning, Active Learning, Game-Based Learning
Cotton balls, Yarn, Construction paper, Video: Short Film: The Starfish Story, Scissors, Glue, Markers, Paint, and Paintbrushes
Step 1
Introduction to Winter
30 mins
- Begin with a discussion about what students know about winter and how it differs from other seasons.
- Discuss various winter weather conditions such as snow, ice, and cold temperatures, and how they affect the environment.
- Show the Short Film: The Starfish Story to introduce the concept of environmental changes and resilience.
Step 2
Winter Exploration
1 hour
- Divide students into small groups to create a winter landscape collage using cotton balls, yarn, construction paper, and paint.
- Discuss how plants and animals might adapt to winter in various environments.
- Encourage students to use their group creations to demonstrate these adaptations, adding details with paint to enhance their scenes.
Step 3
Project-Based Learning Activity
2 hours
- Divide students into small groups to create a large mural of a winter scene.
- Assign each group a specific aspect of winter (e.g., snow, animals, weather) to research and depict.
Step 4
Reflection and Presentation
1 hour
- Have each group present their mural and explain the adaptations they depicted.
- Facilitate a discussion on what they learned about winter and how it compares to other seasons.
Step 5
Closure and Review
30 mins
- Review key concepts learned during the week.
