Objective

By the end of this lesson, RR will be able to classify objects as living or non-living based on their characteristics. RR will understand the differences between living and non-living things and be able to provide examples of each.

Materials and Prep

• Paper
• Pencil or crayons
• A list of common objects (both living and non-living) to discuss

Before the lesson, prepare a list of common objects that RR can easily identify, such as a dog, a tree, a rock, and a toy. Make sure to explain the basic characteristics of living and non-living things.

Activities

• Sorting Game: Create two columns on a piece of paper, one labeled "Living" and the other "Non-Living." Ask RR to think of different objects and write them in the correct column. Discuss why each object belongs in its category.

• Nature Walk: Go outside and look for living and non-living things. RR can draw or write down what they find. For example, they might see a bird (living) and a rock (non-living). Discuss their findings when you return home.

• Living vs Non-Living Characteristics: Have RR create a chart listing characteristics of living things (like growing, breathing, and reproducing) and non-living things (like not growing or changing). This can help solidify their understanding of the differences.

Talking Points

• "What do you think makes something living? Can it grow or change?"
• "Living things need food, water, and air to survive. Can you think of some living things that need these?"
• "Non-living things don’t need food or water. Can you name some non-living things around us?"
• "All living things reproduce. What does that mean? Can you think of how plants and animals make more of themselves?"
• "Living things respond to their environment. Have you ever seen a plant turn towards the light?"
• "Non-living things can be very useful, but they don’t grow or change on their own. What are some things you use every day that are non-living?"
• "Can you think of a time when you saw something that was once living but is now non-living? Like a fallen leaf?"
• "Remember, everything around us can be classified as living or non-living. It’s like a big puzzle we can solve!"