Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will understand the concept of Thanksgiving and its connection to Earth Science.
Materials and Prep
- Construction paper
- Markers or crayons
- Scissors
- Glue
Prior to the lesson, gather the materials and familiarize yourself with the history and significance of Thanksgiving.
Activities
- Create a Thanksgiving Tree
- Explore the Harvest
Using the construction paper, markers or crayons, and scissors, help your child cut out a tree trunk and branches. Have them decorate the tree trunk and branches with Thanksgiving-themed drawings or symbols.
Explain to your child that trees are an important part of Earth Science as they provide oxygen, shade, and homes for animals.
Discuss how trees change throughout the seasons and how Thanksgiving is celebrated during the fall season when leaves change color and fall from the trees.
Glue the tree trunk and branches onto a larger piece of paper or display board. Encourage your child to add leaves to the tree as they learn more about Thanksgiving.
Talk to your child about the concept of harvest and how it is related to Thanksgiving.
Explain that during the harvest season, farmers collect crops from the fields. Discuss different types of crops and their importance in our lives.
Ask your child to draw or cut out pictures of various fruits, vegetables, and grains that are commonly harvested. Help them glue these pictures onto the Thanksgiving Tree to represent the bountiful harvest.
Preschool Grade Talking Points
- "Thanksgiving is a special holiday when we celebrate and give thanks for the good things in our lives."
- "Trees are important because they give us oxygen to breathe, provide shade, and homes for animals."
- "During Thanksgiving, we celebrate in the fall season when leaves change color and fall from the trees."
- "Harvest is when farmers collect crops from the fields. Crops are fruits, vegetables, and grains that we eat."
- "Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful for the bountiful harvest and the food we have."