Animal characteristic breakdown Children love animals and are interested in their unique traits. By embracing this interest and teaching with animal characteristic activities in your classroom, you can reach your curricular goals in a student-driven way. In this episode, I introduce a Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for each grade level K-5 that can be […]
![10 Science Activities for Elementary Students That Aren't Experiments [Episode 1]](https://www.naturallyteaching.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/science-activities-for-elementary-students-header-episode-1-990x630.png)
Podcast
10 Science Activities for Elementary Students That Aren’t Experiments [Ep. 1]Science activities for elementary students Science activities for elementary students are often thought to be limited to experiments. As children that grew up in the era of the scientific method, as teachers, we think: question —> hypothesis —> experiment —> data —> conclusion But the reality is – scientists explore, learn, and explain new discoveries […]
![Teaching with Books: Thinking Outside the Box with Steve Frisbee [Episode 3]](https://www.naturallyteaching.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/teaching-with-books-header-episode-3-990x630.png)
Podcast
Teaching with Books: Thinking Outside the Box with Steve Frisbee [Ep. 3]Teaching with books I am so excited to have the first guest episode be all about teaching with books. This is a passion of mine shared by my friend Steve Frisbee, the Camp Director at Chippewa Nature Center in Midland, Michigan. In this episode we talk about Steve’s experiences teaching with books and how he […]

ELA
Picture Books
Teaching with Books: How to Integrate Science and Literacy for Elementary ClassroomsIf you’re reading this, you’re probably already convinced that teaching science in elementary school is important. But maybe you feel like there’s not enough time in your schedule thanks to the demands for more math, reading, and writing instruction. Subject integration could be your new best friend! I’m talking about covering science concepts by teaching […]

Science
A Raising Butterflies Kit for the Classroom: A Conservation ConversationIf you’ve thought about adding a raising butterflies kit to your list of activities this year, you’ll want to read this article first! While these kits have great reviews and many teachers praise their benefits in the classroom, there’s a bigger picture to consider. I had the opportunity to interview Jenn Kirts and Michelle Fournier […]

Science
Beyond Hearts and Cupids: A Guide to Alternative Valentine’s Day Parties for Elementary TeachersPlanning a fun and engaging classroom celebration poses a unique challenge for elementary teachers, unless you decide to plan an alternative Valentine’s Day experience for your students. In this guide, we’ll transform your Valentine’s Day party into an educational experience, exploring engaging activities and creative crafts that align with your science curriculum. Let’s redefine classroom […]

Outdoor Education
Winter Gear Wisdom: A Practical Guide for Elementary Outdoor EducationDelving into the realm of winter gear for outdoor learning, elementary teachers often find themselves facing the challenge of ensuring their students are adequately dressed for the season. This guide aims to unravel the complexities surrounding winter gear, ensuring students are well-prepared and enthusiastic about outdoor learning during the winter season. What is the weather […]

Science
Snowy Science: A Guide to Teaching About Matter in WinterSometimes teaching about matter can be intimidating and challenging. It’s an abstract concept that educators have the difficult task of teaching to young children. This guide to teaching matter in winter will hopefully give you some ideas for leveraging the season to help you fulfill your curricular goals in an impactful and engaging way while […]

Picture Books
ELA
12 Snow Books to Support Your Elementary CurriculumPicture books are an amazing way to learn about the world and can be an invaluable tool for introducing children to scientific skills and concepts. This list of snow books includes 12 titles that can help with your weather units, states of matter studies, and your water cycle units. By reading some of these books […]

Science
Talking About Turkey Facts: 10 Things to Know Before ThanksgivingTalking about turkey facts is a regular occurrence in classrooms come November in the United States. But do you have the facts to keep your kiddos interested? I have uncovered answers for you for 10 of the most searched terms about wild turkeys. If you want to talk about turkey facts with your students this […]