Unit Study: Preschool Weather

Target Age Group:

Preschoolers (Ages 3-5) Grade Level: Pre-K

Goals:

By the end of this unit study, preschoolers will be able to:

1. Identify and name different types of weather conditions.
2. Understand basic characteristics of various weather patterns and phenomena.
3. Recognize the impact of weather on our daily lives and the environment.
4. Develop observation and critical thinking skills related to weather.
5. Gain a basic understanding of weather-related concepts.

Schedule: 5-Day Plan

Day 1: Introduction to Weather

• Introduce the concept of weather and its significance.
• Discuss different types of weather (sunny, rainy, cloudy, etc.).
• Read books about weather.
• Activity: Create a weather chart with drawings.

Day 2: Sunny Days

• Explore sunny weather and its characteristics.
• Discuss the importance of sunlight and vitamin D.
• Engage in a sun-themed art activity.
• Activity: Create a “Sun Science” experiment.

Day 3: Rainy Days

• Focus on rainy weather and its effects.
• Discuss rainwater and how it helps plants grow.
• Engage in a raindrop painting activity.
• Activity: Create a “Rain Gauge” to measure rainfall.

Day 4: Cloudy and Windy Days

• Discover cloudy and windy weather conditions.
• Discuss different types of clouds and wind movement.
• Engage in cloud and wind-themed activities.
• Activity: Create a cloud mobile craft.

Day 5: Weather Watchers

• Explore the role of meteorologists in studying and predicting weather.
• Discuss weather instruments (thermometer, barometer, etc.).
• Engage in weather observation and recording.
• Activity: Create a “Junior Meteorologist” badge.

Resource List:

Books:

1. “What Will the Weather Be Like Today?” by Paul Rogers – Amazon Link
2. “Cloudette” by Tom Lichtenheld – Amazon Link
3. “Oh Say Can You Say What’s the Weather Today?” by Tish Rabe – Amazon Link

Videos:

1. “Weather for Kids” by SciShow Kids – YouTube Link
2. “Rain Rain Go Away” by Mother Goose Club – YouTube Link
3. “Cloud Types for Kids” by Smart Learning for All – YouTube Link

Activities:

1. Weather Chart with Drawings – Create a chart to track and illustrate different weather conditions.
2. “Sun Science” Experiment – Explore the concept of sunlight using magnifying glasses.
3. Raindrop Painting – Use droppers and colored water to create raindrop paintings.
4. “Rain Gauge” – Set up a simple rain gauge to measure rainfall.
5. Cloud Mobile Craft – Create a mobile featuring different types of clouds.
6. “Junior Meteorologist” Badge – Create badges for little meteorologists.