TCH 257 - Science Methods

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

1. Matter and Materials
2. Biodiversity and Ecosystems
3. A Changing Earth
4. K-2 Engineering Design

Performance Expectations:

2-PS1-1.    Plan and conduct an investigation to describe and classify different kinds of materials by their observable properties.

2-PS1-2.    Analyze data obtained from testing different materials to determine which materials have the properties that are best suited for an intended purpose.

2-PS1-3.    Make observations to construct an evidence-based account of how an object made of a small set of pieces can be disassembled and made into a new object. 

2-PS1-4.    Construct an argument with evidence that some changes caused by heating or cooling can be reversed and some cannot. 

Detailed Matter and Materials Standard Information

Example Lesson Plans

Example Phenomena

• Slime
• Milk and Soap Experiment

Example Books

Performance Expectations:

2-LS2-1.    Plan and conduct an investigation to determine if plants need sunlight and water to grow. 

2-LS2-2.    Develop a simple model that mimics the function of an animal in dispersing seeds or pollinating plants.

2-LS4-1.    Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats. 

Detailed Biodiversity and Ecosystems Standard Information

Example Lesson Plans

Example Phenomena

• Plant Your Socks
• The Mystery of the Missing Bees

Example Books

Performance Expectations:

2-ESS1-1.    Use information from several sources to provide evidence that Earth events can occur quickly or slowly. 

2-ESS2-1.    Compare multiple solutions designed to slow or prevent wind or water from changing the shape of the land.

2-ESS2-2.    Develop a model to represent the shapes and kinds of land and bodies of water in an area. 

2-ESS2-3.    Obtain information to identify where water is found on Earth and that it can be solid or liquid.

Detailed A Changing Earth Standard Information

Example Lesson Plans

Example Phenomena

• How Was the Grand Canyon Formed?
• Why do Rivers Curve?

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