Nature Lab

Scientific inquiry in local ecosystems

Created by Lisa Algee 3rd-5th Grade (upper elementary/primary) Note: This is lesson 4 in a 4-part series on the water cycle, photosynthesis, exploring ecosystems, and scientific inquiry in local ecosystems. Find lessons 1, 2 and 3 here (click relevant link). This scientific inquiry is geared…

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Impressionism

Note: this activity is part of the lesson on photosynthesis. Activity 5: Impressionism Purpose: To show students how an artist such as Monet was inspired by nature to create masterpieces. Perhaps students can create their own masterpiece using his technique of capturing light (using lighter shades…

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Sun or tree metaphor

Note: this activity is part of the lesson on photosynthesis. Activity 4: Sun or tree metaphor Purpose: To understand metaphors and how to construct them. Materials: Recycled paper, pencil, colored pencils, crayons, marker, watercolor paper, watercolors, and water cups. Procedure: (Discuss metaphors) • Have you ever heard…

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Food and exercise

Note: this activity is part of the lesson on photosynthesis. Activity 3: Food and exercise Purpose: To bring awareness to the fact that food and exercise can impact one’s energy level and overall health. For one week, students will keep track and reflect on their food…

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Rainforest food web

By Lisa Algee Note: This activity is associated with the lesson on photosynthesis. Activity 2: Rainforest food web Purpose: To understand how all life is interconnected and the sun, trees, and plants are major components in a food web. Key concepts: • Producers: plants and trees (fruits and nuts)…

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Photosynthesis mobile

Note: This activity is associated with the lesson on photosynthesis. Activity 1: Photosynthesis mobile Students can either draw a large circle on a piece of yellow construction paper or paint a paper plate yellow to construct a mobile. They can even add sunrays in any…

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Photosynthesis

By Lisa Algee 3rd–5th Grade (upper elementary/primary) Note: This is lesson 2 in a 4-part series on the water cycle, photosynthesis, exploring ecosystems, and scientific inquiry in local ecosystems. Find lessons 1, 3 and 4 here (click relevant link). Overview (a)    What is photosynthesis and why…

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