Target Age Group:
Preschoolers (Ages 3-5) Grade Level: Pre-K
Goals:
By the end of this unit study, preschoolers will be able to:
- Identify and name basic parts of plants: roots, stems, leaves, flowers.
- Understand the basic needs of plants for growth: water, sunlight, soil.
- Recognize different types of plants and their uses.
- Develop fine motor skills through arts and crafts activities related to plants.
- Gain a basic understanding of plant-related concepts in science and nature.
Schedule: 5-Day Plan
Day 1: Introduction to Plants
- Introduce the concept of plants and their importance.
- Learn about basic plant parts: roots, stems, leaves, flowers.
- Read books about plants.
- Arts and Crafts: Create a parts of a plant diagram.
Day 2: Plant Needs
- Explore what plants need to grow (water, sunlight, soil).
- Engage in hands-on watering and observing plant growth.
- Read books about plant needs.
- Arts and Crafts: Decorate plant pots.
Day 3: Types of Plants
- Learn about different types of plants (trees, flowers, vegetables).
- Discuss how different plants are used in our daily lives.
- Read books about plant types.
- Arts and Crafts: Create a paper flower garden.
Day 4: Nature Exploration
- Take a nature walk to observe and identify plants.
- Discuss the diversity of plants in different environments.
- Read books about plants in nature.
- Arts and Crafts: Create leaf rubbings.
Day 5: Plant Life Cycle
- Explore the life cycle of a plant (seed, sprout, plant, flower, fruit).
- Plant seeds and engage in planting activities.
- Read books about plant life cycles.
- Arts and Crafts: Create a plant life cycle craft.
Resource List:
Books:
- “The Tiny Seed” by Eric Carle – Amazon Link
- “Planting a Rainbow” by Lois Ehlert – Amazon Link
- “From Seed to Plant” by Gail Gibbons – Amazon Link
Videos:
- “The Planting Song” by Have Fun Teaching – YouTube Link
- “The Plant Song” by Kids Learning Tube – YouTube Link
- “All About Plants for Kids” by Homeschool Pop – YouTube Link
Arts and Crafts:
- Parts of a Plant Diagram – Create a diagram showing the different parts of a plant.
- Decorated Plant Pots – Decorate plain plant pots with paint or stickers.
- Paper Flower Garden – Craft paper flowers and arrange them in a garden scene.
- Leaf Rubbings – Collect leaves and make rubbings using crayons and paper.
- Plant Life Cycle Craft – Create a visual representation of the plant life cycle using craft materials.
Adapt and customize the activities based on the interests and abilities of the preschoolers in your unit study. Have a delightful time exploring the fascinating world of plants with your young learners!