Knowledge/Skill Building
☀️ Sunlight & Shade Temperature Check
K-PS3-1
K-LS1-1
K-ESS2-2
Community Partners
Essential Question
In pairs, students place their hands on sidewalk areas in sun and shade and use simple picture thermometers to compare warm and cool spots. They observe nearby plants and discuss how sunlight might affect soil and plant growth. The teacher records comparison words (warmer, cooler, brighter).
Plan day
Day 1
Duration
—
Grouping
Pair
Steps
5 steps
Lesson plan
5 steps| # | What teachers do |
|---|---|
| 1 | (5 min) Gather students in a circle to introduce the activity, discussing how sunlight affects temperature and plant growth. |
| 2 | (5 min) Demonstrate how to use picture thermometers and distribute them to each pair of students. |
| 3 | (10 min) Guide students to place their hands on the sidewalk in sunlit and shaded areas, using thermometers to observe and compare temperatures. |
| 4 | (5 min) Encourage students to share their observations and compare their findings with their partners. |
| 5 | (5 min) Gather students back together to discuss how sunlight influences plant growth and the implications for their plant project. |
Preparation (3 items)
- Create simple picture thermometers with visuals showing warm, cool, and cold areas.
- Prepare an anchor chart with comparison words like 'warmer,' 'cooler,' and 'brighter.'
- Arrange a partnership or visit with Bullitt County High School Agriculture students prior to the activity for future insights.
Student-facing instructions
You will be exploring how sunlight affects temperature by using picture thermometers and placing your hands on different sidewalk areas. You need picture thermometers to see if it's warmer or cooler in the sun or shade. Your goal is to compare temperature differences and think about how this could affect plants nearby.