TCH 257 - Science Methods

Below explore lesson plans, phenomena, and library materials that are related to the NGSS topics and standards for kindergarten. Select one of the topics below to be taken to materials on that topic. 

1. Pushes and Pulls
2. Life and the Environment
3. Weather and Climate
4. K-2 Engineering Design

Performance Expectations:

K-PS2-1. Plan and conduct an investigation to compare the effects of different strengths or different directions of pushes and pulls on the motion of an object. 

K-PS2-2. Analyze data to determine if a design solution works as intended to change the speed or direction of an object with a push or a pull.

Detailed Pushes and Pulls Standard Information

Example Lesson Plans

Example Phenomena

• Giant Newton's Cradle
• Amazing Slinky Tricks

Example Books

Performance Expectations:

K-LS1-1.    Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive. 

K-ESS2-2.    Construct an argument supported by evidence for how plants and animals (including humans) can change the environment to meet their needs.

K-ESS3-1.    Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants and animals (including humans) and the places they live.

K-ESS3-3.    Communicate solutions that will reduce the impact of humans on the land, water, air, and/or other living things in the local environment.

Detailed Life and the Environment Standard Information

Example Lesson Plans

Example Phenomena

• Woodpecker Homes
• Exploring Microhabitats

Example Books

Performance Expectations:

K-PS3-1.    Make observations to determine the effect of sunlight on Earth’s surface. 

K-PS3-2.    Use tools and materials to design and build a structure that will reduce the warming effect of sunlight on an area.

K-ESS2-1.    Use and share observations of local weather conditions to describe patterns over time. 

K-ESS3-2.    Ask questions to obtain information about the purpose of weather forecasting to prepare for, and respond to, severe weather.

Detailed Weather and Climate Standard Information

Example Lesson Plans

Example Phenomena

• Lightning Strikes Thrice - Empire State Building
• How the Sun Sees You

Example Books

Performance Expectations:

K-2-ETS1-1.    Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.

K-2-ETS1-2.    Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.

K-2-ETS1-3.    Analyze data from tests of two objects designed to solve the same problem to compare the strengths and weaknesses of how each performs.

Detailed Engineering Design Standard Information

Example Lesson Plans

Example Phenomena

• Amazing Rube Goldberg Machines
• Top Spinning for Over 50 Minutes

Example Books