Grade 1 Science

What your child will learn and do in Grade 1 Science

In grade one, students continue to develop a sense of wonder and curiosity about the natural and designed world. Recognizing that scientific knowledge and practices build over time, at this grade level  students are further introduced to investigating and asking questions about their world to initial understanding about how the real (natural) and the designed world (man made) work. Students use evidence they collect to explain phenomena (simple observable events) to support their thinking and problem solving in the areas of physical, earth,  and life sciences, as well as engineering. These experiences provide access for all students to develop scientific awareness. Activities in these areas include:

  • Making observations and asking questions about their environment

  • Making predictions based on observed patterns such as the sun or moon’s location in the sky 

  • Using literacy skills to demonstrate their science understandings

  • Using their senses and simple measuring tools to collect data

  • Observing  the seasonal patterns of daylight throughout the year using shadows and objects in our sky 

  • Investigating the properties of sound and light that help us communicate 

  • Investigating how different animals and plants meet their needs to survive

  • Exploring the patterns of how young plants and animals are alike, but not exactly like, their parents

  • Investigating how tools help us understand our environment and make our lives easier


Helping your child learn outside of school:    

Look for everyday opportunities to have your child explore scientific concepts.

  • Share and discuss how you solve problems and use measurement in your everyday life, such as while cooking, building, gardening, or caring for a family pet.

  • Ask your child what they are figuring out and learning about in science. 

  • Ask your students what evidence, or reasons, they have for their ideas. 

  • Play with light and shadows. (Idea:  Use a flashlight)

  • Study animals that interest your child and discuss similarities, differences, and needs of those animals. 

  • Observe and discuss objects and their position in the sky both during the day and at night.

  • Watch special science-related television or video programs together.

  • Visit your local library regularly to check out books on science topics that interest your child.

  • Visit local nature centers, museums, and science centers.

  • Take a walk in your neighborhood or in a local park during all times of the year to observe the changes in nature.

  • Provide opportunities to use various tools around the home.

  • Encourage friends and family to give books or magazine subscriptions to your child as gifts.  


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