Nature’s Transformers
A Classrooms Unleashed Program for First Grade Students
In this three-lesson unit, students build literacy skills while learning about biomimicry — the process of using nature to help solve human problems. Students work collaboratively to read informational text, gather information, practice asking questions based on their observations, and discuss ideas with peers to develop solutions to human problems using the natural world as a guide.
All of our lessons are backwards designed from Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core for first grade. In addition to the Sierra Nevada Journeys-led lessons, classroom teachers will be provided with 3-4 easy-to-use learning experiences to reinforce concepts and vocabulary.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
LESSON 1: With a Tail Like This?
During this 60-minute lesson students will explore the relationship between the structure of an external part and its function through the study of various animals. Students will read an informational text along with the teacher and use a graphic organizer to write and draw about the structure and function of external parts that animals use to survive.
LESSON 2: Relating Structure and Function
During this 60-minute lesson students learn about the concept of biomimicry as it relates to humans; specifically, the way humans have used nature to help them solve problems. Students will investigate ways nature has solved problems through the development of adaptations and apply those learnings to solve a real-world problem. During the lesson students begin to identify problems, ask questions about the topic, and gather information about the ways nature has solved a problem to help humans.
LESSON 3: TAKING IT INTO NATURE
In this 90-minute lesson, first grade scientists explore connections between animal and plant structures and functions in their schoolyard to identify patterns in nature; they also explore how plants and animals use biomimicry to help them survive.
TEACHER INFORMATION
NEXT GENERATION SCIENCE STANDARDS
1- LS1-1, K-2-ETS1-1
COMMON CORE
ELA: RI.1.7, W.1.2, W.1.7
Nevada partnership with:
