Objective

By the end of this lesson, RR will be able to identify and group living things based on observable features and distinguish them from non-living things. RR will also understand the basic characteristics that define living organisms.

Materials and Prep

• Paper
• Pencil or Crayon
• Access to a garden or outdoor area (or a window with a view of nature)
• List of characteristics of living things (to be discussed during the lesson)

Make sure RR has a quiet space to work and is ready to explore the world of living and non-living things!

Activities

• Nature Walk:

  Take a short walk outside to observe plants, animals, and other living things. RR can make a list of what they see and note down their features, like color, size, and shape.

• Drawing Living vs. Non-Living:

  RR can draw two columns on a piece of paper: one for living things and one for non-living things. They can fill in each column with drawings of what they observed during the nature walk.

• Group Discussion:

  After the activities, sit down with RR and discuss their findings. Ask questions like, "What did you find that was living?" and "What are some things that are not alive?"

Talking Points

• "What do you think makes something a living thing? Is it because it moves, grows, or needs food?"
• "Living things can grow and change. Can you think of something that grows, like a plant or an animal?"
• "Non-living things don’t grow or need food. Can you name something that is non-living?"
• "All living things need water, air, and food to survive. Why do you think that is?"
• "Did you notice any differences between the plants and animals you saw? What made them unique?"
• "Remember, living things can reproduce! That means they can make more of their own kind. Can you think of an example?"
• "Observing features helps us understand living things better. What features did you notice?"
• "Why do you think it’s important to know about living and non-living things? How does it help us in our daily lives?"