Students will discover nature by learning about living and nonliving things, the plant and animal kingdoms, vertebrate vs. invertebrate and characteristics of animals. Each class will learn a different topic. Also, every time we meet the class will have a meet and greet, discussion of the lesson expectations, an art learning activity and we will wrap up with a review of the lesson.  The lesson will be taught with multi-sensory activities, and students will interact with discussions, sharing work, art, and video clips as well as various mediums.  No prior knowledge is needed. 

The first time we meet students will learn about living and nonliving things. Students will learn how to identify the difference between living and nonliving things.  We will discuss the characteristics of living organisms. Then the students will have a chance to further reflect on the lesson by participating in an art activity. The students will make a living and nonliving collage out of photos that they will select prior to the class. In the materials section below, you can find everything that you will need for this class. 

The next time we meet students will learn about the kingdoms.  We will categorize the living organisms by kingdoms, and discuss the  animal kingdom in depth. We will identify animals by the 7 characteristics of living organisms.  The students will do an art project to reflect on the lesson. Students will use color pencils to create their own dream animals. In the materials section below, you can find everything that you will need for this class. 

The third time we meet students will learn about vertebrates and invertebrates.  We will discuss the difference between a vertebrate and invertebrate.  Then the students will identify different animals by vertebrate or invertebrate.  The students will do an art project to reflect on the lesson. Students will create their favorite vertebrate or invertebrate using water soluble wax pastels. In the materials section below, you can find everything that you will need for this class. 

The final time we meet students will learn about characteristics of animals. Students will listen to “Who Am I” reading cards that describe animals' features.  We will discuss the many characteristics of animals.  The students will do an art project to reflect on the lesson.  Students will use watercolors and markers to create imaginary animals. In the materials section below, you can find everything that you will need for this class.