First Grade Scientists (page 2)

Go Wild. Take a look at what all parents need to know about First Grade Science.

What You Need To Know

Science in First Grade is the gateway to the natural world. Children learn the basics of the weather, water, rocks, and soil. They will find out how living things grow, and begin to study the environment around them. Willing parents are expected to be equally hands-on as they accompany their little explorers on field trips.

At the beginning of First Grade, most children can:

• Understand day and night.
• Recognize seasonal differences between summer and winter.
• Know the difference between living things and non-living things.
• Match mothers to babies.
• Compare different animals.
• Identify what humans need for life.

How You Can Help

1. Go to the zoo. If there’s a zoo in your area, find out which animals have recently given birth. In First Grade, students find out more about mothers and babies, but there’s nothing like seeing the real thing.
2. See the sea. First graders learn to identify different bodies of water, so make a fun day out of your scientific exploration by visiting the ocean, a river, or a local lake. Look out for water birds and marine life by the shoreline, and don’t forget to pack a picnic.
3. Get outdoors. Get your hands dirty studying rocks, boulders, dirt, and sand. Your child will learn about a variety of earth materials this year.
4. Read up. A little research before a trip can help children know what to look for, whether it’s birds, butterflies, buttercups, or bears!
5. Go wild. Many farms have small petting areas which are perfect for young scientists. Take celery and lettuce in case you’re allowed to feed the animals.
6. Keep your eyes open. The transition from caterpillars to butterflies and from tadpoles into frogs are two of the classic life stage examples in First Grade science. Butterflies are relatively easy to spot, but you’ll have to be eagle-eyed to see a caterpillar.

For more information on what happens in First Grade science, please see the full article:

www.education.com/reference/article/first_grade_science/