Objective
By the end of this lesson, Kenley will understand how snow affects the environment, learn about local animals and their habitats in winter, and explore the beauty of nature during snowy days in Connecticut.
Materials and Prep
- Warm clothing (coat, gloves, hat, boots)
- Notebook and pencil for observations
- Camera or smartphone for taking pictures (optional)
- Basic knowledge of local animals in Connecticut (e.g., deer, rabbits, birds)
- Understanding of what habitats are and how they change with the seasons
Activities
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Nature Walk
Take a walk outside in the snow and observe the environment. Look for animal tracks in the snow and try to identify which animals made them. Kenley can use her notebook to sketch the tracks or write down her observations.
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Snow Art
Create art in the snow using sticks, pinecones, and other natural materials. Kenley can make snow sculptures or designs, exploring her creativity while enjoying the outdoors.
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Animal Habitats Exploration
Discuss where local animals go during the winter. Kenley can look for signs of animal habitats, such as nests, burrows, or tracks. She can draw a map of where she thinks different animals might live based on her observations.
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Winter Weather Journal
Start a winter journal where Kenley can write down the weather each day, what she sees outside, and any animals she observes. This will help her learn about climate and weather patterns in Connecticut.
Talking Points
- "What do you notice about the snow? Is it soft or hard?"
- "Can you see any animal tracks? What do you think made them?"
- "How do you think animals stay warm in the winter?"
- "What is a habitat? Can you name some animals that live in Connecticut?"
- "Why do you think some animals hibernate in the winter?"
- "What do you think happens to plants in the winter?"
- "How does snow help the environment?"
- "What is your favorite thing about winter? Why?"