Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to compare the features and characteristics of living and non-living things in the natural world.

Materials and Prep

• Pen and paper
• A computer or tablet with internet access
• Optional: Books or educational videos about living and non-living things

No prior knowledge or preparation is required for this lesson.

Activities

• Activity 1: Observation Walk
  Take a walk outside and observe the surroundings. Look for living and non-living things in the environment. Make a list of at least five examples of each. Take notes on their features and characteristics.
• Activity 2: Venn Diagram
  Create a Venn diagram using a piece of paper or a digital tool. Label one circle "Living Things" and the other circle "Non-Living Things." Fill in the overlapping area with things that can be both living and non-living. Write or draw examples in each section of the diagram.
• Activity 3: Research and Presentation
  Choose one living thing and one non-living thing from your observation walk. Conduct research online or using books to gather more information about them. Create a short presentation highlighting their features and characteristics. Use pictures or drawings to support your presentation.

Talking Points

• Living Things:
  • "Living things are organisms that have the ability to grow, reproduce, and respond to their environment."
  • "They are made up of cells and require energy to survive."
  • "Living things can be classified into different groups, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms."
• Non-Living Things:
  • "Non-living things are objects or substances that do not possess the characteristics of living organisms."
  • "They cannot grow, reproduce, or respond to their environment."
  • "Non-living things can include rocks, water, air, and man-made objects like buildings and vehicles."
• Comparison:
  • "Living things require energy, while non-living things do not."
  • "Living things can adapt and evolve, while non-living things remain unchanged."
  • "Both living and non-living things play important roles in the ecosystem."