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Preschool

Preschool Science Topics & Activities for the Year!

Preschool science is all about exploration, sensory play, and hands-on discovery! Young learners are naturally curious, and this is the perfect time to introduce basic scientific concepts in a fun, engaging way. Through play, observation, and simple experiments, preschoolers develop early problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of key preschool science topics by season and a list of 20+ hands-on activities to support learning all year long!

💡Check out the Libraries for printables or use the search bar.

Fall Science (Sep- Nov)

  • The 5 Senses – Exploring how we see, hear, smell, taste, and touch
  • Living vs. Non-Living Things – Identifying what is alive and what is not
  • Weather & Seasonal Changes – Observing how fall brings changes in nature
  • Pumpkins, Apples & Leaves – Exploring fall harvest and plant life cycles

Fall Science Activities:

  1. Leaf Color Sorting – Collect leaves and match them by color
  2. Pumpkin Exploration – Open a pumpkin and explore its seeds, texture, and smell
  3. Apple Sink or Float Experiment – Test whether apples sink or float in water
  4. Sensory Nature Walk – Listen for sounds, feel textures, and smell different fall scents
  5. Cloud in a Jar – Use shaving cream and water to create a rain cloud experiment

Winter Science (Dec- Feb)

  • Day & Night – Understanding light and dark differences
  • States of Matter – Exploring solids (ice), liquids (water), and gases (steam)
  • Animals in Winter – How animals hibernate, migrate, or adapt
  • Hot & Cold Experiments – Learning about temperature changes

Winter Science Activities:

  1. Melting Ice Cube Race – Test how fast ice melts with salt vs. warm water
  2. Shadow Puppets – Explore how light creates shadows
  3. Blubber Experiment – Use shortening in a bag to show how animals stay warm in the cold
  4. Frozen Bubbles Experiment – Blow bubbles outside in freezing temperatures and watch them freeze
  5. Snowflake Symmetry Art – Create paper snowflakes and discuss their unique patterns

Spring Science (Mar- May)

  • Plant Growth & Gardening – What plants need to grow
  • Baby Animals & Life Cycles – Learning about chicks, frogs, and butterflies
  • Rain & Water Cycle – Where does rain come from?
  • Sun & Shadows – How light creates shadows and moves throughout the day

Spring Science Activities:

  1. Planting Seeds in a Cup – Watch seeds sprout roots and leaves
  2. Butterfly Life Cycle Craft – Use pasta shapes to show different stages of a butterfly
  3. Rain in a Jar Experiment – Simulate the water cycle using warm water and ice
  4. Shadow Tracing with Chalk – Trace objects’ shadows outside at different times of the day
  5. Worm Discovery Dig – Observe worms in soil and discuss their role in nature

Summer Science (Jun- Aug)

  • Water Play & Sensory Exploration – Learning through splashing and pouring
  • Ocean & Beach Science – Discovering sea creatures and waves
  • Simple Machines for Play – Exploring ramps, wheels, and pulleys
  • Sun & Heat – Understanding how the sun warms things up

Summer Science Activities:

  1. Sink or Float Water Play – Test different objects in a water bin
  2. Beach Sensory Bin – Explore shells, sand, and water in a hands-on sensory setup
  3. Rolling Cars Down Ramps – Experiment with how objects roll on different surfaces
  4. Melting Ice Science – Freeze small toys in ice and let kids experiment with melting techniques
  5. Homemade Bubble Solution – Mix soap and water to create giant bubbles

How to Use These Science Activities

  • Encourage hands-on exploration – Let kids touch, feel, and observe
  • Use simple, safe materials – Everyday items make great science tools
  • Ask open-ended questions – “What do you think will happen?” or “What do you notice?”
  • Let kids make discoveries – Science is about play and learning through experience
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Sixth Grade Science

Sixth Grade Science Topics & Activities for the Year!

Sixth grade science is all about digging deeper into scientific concepts, conducting experiments with data analysis, and making real-world connections. Students explore earth science, physical science, life science, and engineering while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of key sixth-grade science topics by season and a list of 20+ engaging activities to support interactive learning all year long!

Fall Science (Sept- Nov)

  • Ecology & Environmental Science – Studying ecosystems, human impact, and conservation
  • Forces & Motion – Newton’s Laws, inertia, friction, and acceleration
  • Weather & Atmospheric Science – Understanding global weather patterns and storms
  • Matter & Chemical Reactions – Investigating physical vs. chemical changes

Fall Science Activities:

  1. Ecosystem Energy Flow Diagram – Map out how energy moves through a food web
  2. Friction Experiment with Different Surfaces – Test how different materials affect motion
  3. Storm Tracking Investigation – Study how hurricanes form and move
  4. Elephant Toothpaste Experiment – Explore exothermic chemical reactions
  5. Balloon Car STEM Challenge – Build a balloon-powered car to explore Newton’s Laws

Winter Science (Dec- Feb)

  • Earth’s Water Systems & Ocean Currents – How water shapes land and climate
  • Electricity & Magnetism – Exploring electromagnets and circuit designs
  • Heat Transfer & Insulation – Conduction, convection, and radiation in action
  • Natural Selection & Evolution – How species adapt and change over time

Winter Science Activities:

  1. Ocean Current Model with Colored Water – Simulate how warm and cold water move in the ocean
  2. Electromagnet Experiment – Create an electromagnet using a battery and wire
  3. Heat Conductivity Test – Compare how different materials transfer heat
  4. Beak Adaptation Experiment – Use different tools to mimic bird beaks collecting food
  5. Homemade Lightning with Static Electricity – Create mini sparks using friction

Spring Science (Mar- May)

  • Cell Biology & Microorganisms – Learning about plant and animal cells
  • Plate Tectonics & Earth’s Structure – Earthquakes, volcanoes, and shifting plates
  • Energy Conservation & Renewable Resources – Exploring how we use and save energy
  • Simple Machines & Engineering – Investigating levers, pulleys, and gears

Spring Science Activities:

  1. Cell Model Project – Build a plant or animal cell using household materials
  2. Earthquake Shake Table – Construct a model city and test how earthquakes affect structures
  3. Solar Energy Cooking Experiment – Create a solar oven to cook a small meal
  4. Lever & Pulley Exploration – Test how simple machines make work easier
  5. Wind Turbine Design Challenge – Build a mini wind turbine to generate energy

Summer Science (Jun- Aug)

  • Astronomy & Space Science – Learning about planets, moons, and galaxies
  • Density, Buoyancy & Fluids – Investigating why objects sink or float
  • STEM Engineering Challenges – Applying problem-solving to real-world scenarios
  • Scientific Inquiry & Experimental Design – Conducting student-led investigations

Summer Science Activities:

  1. Phases of the Moon Model – Use Oreos or foam balls to demonstrate moon phases
  2. Buoyancy Test with Different Liquids – Compare how objects float in fresh vs. saltwater
  3. DIY Water Bottle Rocket – Launch a bottle rocket using air pressure
  4. Build a Hovercraft – Experiment with air flow and friction using a balloon and CD
  5. Independent Science Fair Project – Encourage students to design and test their own experiment

How to Use These Science Activities

  • Encourage student-led inquiry – Let students ask their own questions and design tests
  • Connect concepts to real-world issues – Discuss how science affects daily life
  • Analyze data & results – Help students track changes and improve their experiments
  • Use science notebooks – Have students document hypotheses, observations, and conclusions
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Fifth Grade Science

Fifth Grade Science Topics & Activities for the Year!

Fifth grade is a pivotal year for science learning as students begin to analyze data, design experiments, and apply critical thinking skills to complex concepts. This year emphasizes physical science, life science, earth science, and engineering, encouraging independent investigation and hands-on learning.

Below is a breakdown of key fifth-grade science topics by season and a list of 20+ engaging activities to spark curiosity and deepen scientific understanding!

💡Check out the Libraries for printables or use the search bar.

Fall Science (Sep- Nov)

  • Ecosystems & Biomes – Understanding the balance of plants, animals, and their environments
  • Forces, Motion & Newton’s Laws – Exploring gravity, friction, and acceleration
  • Weather & Climate – Comparing long-term patterns with short-term weather changes
  • Mixtures & Solutions – Investigating chemical and physical changes

Fall Science Activities:

  1. Biome Diorama Project – Build a 3D model of a desert, rainforest, or tundra
  2. Ball Drop Gravity Test – Experiment to see how mass affects falling speed
  3. Weather vs. Climate Sorting Activity – Classify different weather and climate events
  4. Dissolving Race Experiment – Test how fast different substances dissolve in water
  5. Air Resistance Challenge – Design parachutes and test how they slow falling objects

Winter Science (Dec- Feb)

  • Earth’s Water Cycle & Conservation – How water moves through the environment
  • Electricity & Circuits – Exploring conductors, insulators, and energy transfer
  • Thermal Energy & Heat Transfer – Investigating conduction, convection, and radiation
  • Adaptations & Natural Selection – How species survive and change over time

Winter Science Activities:

  1. Water Cycle Model with Heat Lamp – Simulate evaporation, condensation, and precipitation
  2. Build a Series & Parallel Circuit – Test how electricity flows through different pathways
  3. Thermal Energy Transfer Test – Compare heat retention in different materials
  4. Camouflage Investigation – Observe how different backgrounds affect an animal’s ability to hide
  5. DIY Water Filtration System – Create a working model of a water purification process

Spring Science (Mar- May)

  • Photosynthesis & Plant Growth – How plants make food and use energy
  • Human Body Systems – Exploring circulatory, respiratory, and digestive systems (new human systems section under biology)
  • Earth’s Layers & Plate Tectonics – Understanding earthquakes, volcanoes, and land formations
  • Energy Transfer & Conservation – How energy moves through ecosystems and systems

Spring Science Activities:

  1. Leaf Starch Test for Photosynthesis – Use iodine to test for starch in plant leaves
  2. Build a Model Lung – Demonstrate how the diaphragm helps us breathe
  3. Earthquake Shake Table Experiment – Construct buildings and test stability against vibrations
  4. Food Web Investigation – Create a food web diagram and explore predator-prey relationships
  5. Pendulum Energy Transfer Experiment – Observe how potential energy converts to kinetic energy

Summer Science (Jun- Aug)

  • Renewable & Nonrenewable Energy – Solar, wind, water, and fossil fuels
  • Simple & Complex Machines – How machines make work easier
  • Buoyancy & Density – Why some objects float and others sink
  • Engineering & STEM Challenges – Applying science to solve real-world problems

Summer Science Activities:

  1. Solar Panel Test with a Small Motor – Observe how solar energy powers movement
  2. Pulley System Experiment – Test how pulleys reduce the force needed to lift objects
  3. Floating & Sinking Saltwater Experiment – Investigate how density affects buoyancy
  4. Egg Drop Engineering Challenge – Design a structure to protect an egg from breaking
  5. Bridge-Building STEM Challenge – Construct a bridge using different materials and test its strength

How to Use These Science Activities

  • Encourage inquiry-based learning – Let students ask questions and test hypotheses
  • Connect science to everyday life – Help students see how science is all around them
  • Support critical thinking – Encourage students to analyze results and improve their experiments
  • Use science journals – Have students record observations, data, and conclusions
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Fourth Grade Science

Fourth Grade Science Topics & Activities for the Year!

Fourth grade is an exciting time for science! Students begin to think critically, conduct more detailed experiments, and apply scientific reasoning to real-world problems. This year covers physical science, life science, earth science, and engineering concepts, encouraging hands-on exploration and discovery.

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of key fourth-grade science topics by season and a list of 20+ engaging activities to keep students learning all year long!

💡Check out the Libraries for printables or use the search bar.

Fall Science (Sept – Nov)

  • Ecosystems & Food Webs – How organisms interact and depend on each other
  • Forces, Motion & Gravity – Exploring Newton’s Laws of Motion
  • Weather & Climate Patterns – Understanding how weather systems form
  • Matter & Its Changes – Physical vs. chemical changes in materials

Fall Science Activities:

  1. Ecosystem in a Jar – Create a small, self-sustaining ecosystem
  2. Gravity Drop Test – Compare how different objects fall at the same speed
  3. Weather Tracking Chart – Observe and record temperature, precipitation, and wind patterns
  4. Baking Soda & Vinegar Reaction – Demonstrate a chemical change with fizzing CO₂ release
  5. Balloon Rocket Experiment – Explore Newton’s Third Law with air-powered movement

Winter Science (Dec – Feb)

  • The Water Cycle & Weathering – How water shapes the Earth’s surface
  • Electricity & Circuits – Understanding simple and parallel circuits
  • Heat Transfer & Insulation – Conduction, convection, and radiation
  • Animal Adaptations – How animals survive in extreme conditions

Winter Science Activities:

  1. DIY Water Cycle Model – Simulate evaporation, condensation, and precipitation in a plastic bag
  2. Simple Circuit Challenge – Build a basic circuit using a battery, wires, and a lightbulb
  3. Hot vs. Cold Insulation Test – Experiment with different materials to see which keeps heat in best
  4. Camouflage Science Investigation – Test how animals blend into their environments
  5. Erosion Experiment – Use sand, water, and wind to observe how landscapes change over time

Spring Science (Mar- May)

  • Plant Growth & Photosynthesis – How plants use sunlight to create food
  • Rock Cycle & Fossils – Exploring how rocks change over time
  • Energy Transfer & Motion – How energy moves through systems
  • Sound & Light Waves – Investigating how waves travel

Spring Science Activities:

  1. Plant Growth Under Different Conditions – Test how light, soil, and water affect plant growth
  2. Make Your Own Fossil – Use salt dough to create fossil imprints
  3. Pendulum Motion Experiment – Explore how energy moves through a swinging pendulum
  4. Prism Light Experiment – Use a prism to split light into a rainbow
  5. Rubber Band Sound Test – Investigate how vibrations create different pitches

Summer Science (Jun- Aug)

  • Renewable & Nonrenewable Energy – Understanding solar, wind, and fossil fuel energy
  • Simple Machines & Engineering – Levers, pulleys, and inclined planes in action
  • Buoyancy & Density – Why some things sink and others float
  • STEM Challenges & Real-World Problem Solving – Applying science in creative ways

Summer Science Activities:

  1. Solar Oven Cooking – Harness the sun’s energy to cook s’mores
  2. Pulley System Build – Experiment with lifting objects using a pulley
  3. Density Tower Experiment – Layer different liquids to observe density differences
  4. Egg Drop Challenge – Design a structure to protect an egg from a fall
  5. Build a Wind-Powered Car – Use wind energy to move a homemade vehicle

How to Use These Science Activities

  • Encourage hands-on learning – Let students explore with materials and ask their own questions
  • Make connections to real life – Show how science explains everyday phenomena
  • Support critical thinking – Encourage students to predict, observe, and explain their findings
  • Use science journals – Have students record hypotheses, observations, and conclusions
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Third Grade Science

Third Grade Science Topics & Activities for the Year!

Third grade is an exciting year for science! Students are ready to ask deeper questions, test ideas, and analyze results. This year introduces more complex scientific concepts, hands-on investigations, and connections to the real world.

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of key third-grade science topics by season and a list of 20+ engaging activities to support hands-on learning throughout the year.

💡Check out the Libraries for printables or use the search bar.

Fall Science (Sep – Nov)

  • Ecosystems & Food Chains – How plants and animals depend on each other
  • Weather & Climate – Understanding seasonal changes and patterns
  • Forces & Motion – Exploring friction, gravity, and pushes/pulls
  • Properties of Matter – Investigating solids, liquids, and gases

Fall Science Activities:

  1. Food Chain Sorting Activity – Organize plants, herbivores, and carnivores into a food web
  2. Friction Ramp Challenge – Test how different surfaces affect how objects slide
  3. Pumpkin Weathering Experiment – Observe how a pumpkin decomposes over time
  4. Wind Speed Measurement – Build an anemometer to track wind speed
  5. Matter Observation Walk – Identify and classify objects as solid, liquid, or gas

Winter Science (Dec – Feb)

  • The Water Cycle – Understanding evaporation, condensation, and precipitation
  • Heat Transfer & Insulation – Exploring conduction, convection, and radiation
  • Animal Adaptations – How animals survive in cold environments
  • Magnetism & Forces – Investigating magnetic fields and attraction/repulsion

Winter Science Activities:

  1. Water Cycle in a Bag – Watch evaporation and condensation in action
  2. Hot & Cold Experiment – Test how different materials conduct heat
  3. Camouflage Blending Activity – Explore how animals use color to hide in different environments
  4. DIY Compass with a Magnet – Learn how Earth’s magnetic field affects a needle
  5. Ice Cube Insulation Challenge – Test different materials to see which keeps ice from melting

Spring Science (Mar- May)

  • Plant Life Cycles & Photosynthesis – How plants grow and make their own food
  • Animal Life Cycles – Comparing amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals
  • Rocks & Minerals – Investigating types of rocks and how they form
  • Simple Machines – Levers, pulleys, and inclined planes in everyday life

Spring Science Activities:

  1. Bean Plant Growth Experiment – Observe how plants grow in different conditions
  2. Frog Life Cycle Model – Create a 3D representation of tadpoles turning into frogs
  3. Rock Sorting Challenge – Identify igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks
  4. Pulley System Exploration – Build and test a simple pulley system
  5. Photosynthesis Leaf Experiment – Observe how plants release oxygen in sunlight

Summer Science (Jun – Aug)

  • Energy & Renewable Resources – Learning about solar, wind, and water power
  • Light & Sound Waves – Investigating how light reflects and how sound travels
  • Buoyancy & Density – Why some things sink while others float
  • STEM Engineering Challenges – Applying science to real-world problem-solving

Summer Science Activities:

  1. Solar Oven S’mores – Harness the sun’s energy to melt marshmallows and chocolate
  2. DIY Sound Waves Experiment – Use a string phone to explore how sound travels
  3. Floating vs. Sinking Experiment – Test objects in water and predict their buoyancy
  4. Build a Wind-Powered Car – Use basic materials to design a vehicle powered by wind
  5. Shadow Science Investigation – Observe how shadows change based on light sources

How to Use These Science Activities

  • Encourage hands-on learning – Let kids explore, build, and test their ideas
  • Make real-world connections – Show how science explains things they see every day
  • Ask deeper questions – Encourage “why” and “how” thinking
  • Use science journals – Have students record their observations, predictions, and results
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Second Grade Science

Second Grade Science Topics & Activities for the Year!

Second grade is a big year for discovery, observation, and hands-on learning! Students are ready to ask more questions, make predictions, and explore science in greater depth. Throughout the year, they will investigate the natural world, experiment with simple science concepts, and start thinking like scientists!

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of key second-grade science topics by season and a list of 20+ engaging activities to bring science learning to life!

💡Check out the Libraries for printables or use the search bar.

Fall Science (Sep – Nov)

  • Plant & Animal Adaptations – How living things survive in different environments
  • Weather & Climate – Understanding patterns in temperature, rainfall, and seasons
  • Matter & Its Properties – Exploring solids, liquids, and gases
  • Energy & Motion – Introduction to forces like push, pull, and gravity

Fall Science Activities:

  1. Leaf Investigation – Compare different types of leaves and their textures
  2. Pumpkin Decomposition Experiment – Observe how a pumpkin breaks down over time
  3. Wind Speed Test – Make an anemometer and measure wind strength
  4. Building a Catapult – Experiment with force and motion
  5. Mixing Solids & Liquids – Test which substances dissolve in water

Winter Science (Dec – Feb)

  • The Water Cycle – Evaporation, condensation, and precipitation in action
  • States of Matter – How materials change between solid, liquid, and gas
  • Heat & Temperature – Exploring how heat moves and how insulation works
  • Animal Hibernation & Migration – How animals survive cold temperatures

Winter Science Activities:

  1. Water Cycle in a Bag – Watch condensation and precipitation inside a sealed plastic bag
  2. Snow & Ice Melting Test – Experiment with different materials to see what melts ice the fastest
  3. Blubber Experiment – Use shortening in a bag to model how animals stay warm
  4. Condensation Experiment – Breathe on a cold mirror to observe water droplets forming
  5. Hot vs. Cold Balloon Experiment – See how temperature changes air pressure by inflating and deflating a balloon

Spring Science (Mar- May)

  • Plant Growth & Needs – What plants need to survive and how they grow
  • Life Cycles of Animals – Comparing different life cycles (butterflies, frogs, birds)
  • Ecosystems & Habitats – Understanding different living environments
  • Simple Machines – Learning about levers, pulleys, ramps, and wheels

Spring Science Activities:

  1. Planting a Bean in a Cup – Observe roots and sprouts grow in real-time
  2. Butterfly Life Cycle Craft – Use pasta to represent different stages of metamorphosis
  3. Habitat Diorama Project – Build a model of a desert, ocean, or rainforest
  4. Building a Mini Pulley System – Explore how pulleys help lift objects
  5. Food Chain Sorting Game – Arrange plants and animals into a food chain

Summer Science (Jun – Aug)

  • Forces & Magnets – Exploring attraction, repulsion, and invisible forces
  • Sound & Light – Understanding how vibrations create sound and how light travels
  • Oceans & Marine Life – Investigating ocean animals, tides, and waves
  • Recycling & Environmental Science – Learning about reducing waste and taking care of the planet

Summer Science Activities:

  1. Magnet Maze Challenge – Guide an object through a maze using only magnets
  2. Homemade Kazoo – Learn how sound vibrations travel through different materials
  3. Ocean Layers in a Bottle – Create a model of the ocean’s layers using liquids of different densities
  4. DIY Sun Print Experiment – Use sunlight and special paper to create nature prints
  5. Recycled Paper Making – Learn how old paper is turned into new paper

How to Use These Science Activities

  • Encourage exploration & observation – Let students ask questions and test ideas
  • Connect science to real life – Show how these topics apply to things they see every day
  • Use simple materials – Many of these activities use household items
  • Let kids record their findings – Science notebooks or printable worksheets help build early scientific thinking
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First Grade Science

First Grade Science Topics & Activities for the Year!

First grade is a time for curiosity, exploration, and hands-on learning in science! This year builds on kindergarten concepts, introducing simple experiments, observations, and early problem-solving skills. Below is a breakdown of key first-grade science topics by season and a list of 20+ engaging activities to help young learners discover the wonders of science throughout the year.

💡Check out the Libraries for printables or use the search bar.

Fall Science (Sep – Nov)

  • Animal Life Cycles – Understanding how animals grow and change
  • Weather Patterns – Tracking changes in temperature, wind, and precipitation
  • Basic Needs of Plants & Animals – What all living things need to survive
  • Seasons & Changes in Nature – Why leaves change color and why the weather gets cooler

Fall Science Activities:

  1. Leaf Sorting & Rubbing – Explore different types of leaves and their textures
  2. Apple Life Cycle Craft – Learn how apples grow from seeds to fruit
  3. Pumpkin Sink or Float Experiment – Test different pumpkins in water
  4. Tracking Weather with a Chart – Observe daily weather and seasonal changes
  5. Bird Feeder STEM Challenge – Create a simple bird feeder to observe local wildlife

Winter Science (Dec – Feb)

  • Day & Night Cycle – Why do we have daytime and nighttime?
  • States of Matter – Learning about solids, liquids, and gases
  • Energy & Heat – Exploring how heat is produced and transferred
  • Animal Adaptations & Hibernation – How animals survive cold temperatures

Winter Science Activities:

  1. Melting Ice Experiment – Test what melts ice the fastest: salt, sugar, or warm water
  2. Shadow Length Investigation – Measure and compare shadows throughout the day
  3. Hot vs. Cold Experiment – Compare how quickly different materials warm up in the sun
  4. Blubber Glove Experiment – Learn how animals stay warm in winter
  5. Snowflake Science & Symmetry – Cut and observe different snowflake patterns

Spring Science (Mar- May)

  • Plant Growth & Needs – How do plants grow, and what do they need to survive?
  • Insects & Pollination – How bees and butterflies help plants
  • Water Cycle – Understanding evaporation, condensation, and precipitation
  • Living & Non-Living Things – Identifying and classifying objects in nature

Spring Science Activities:

  1. Germinating Seeds in a Bag – Watch seeds sprout and grow roots
  2. Bee Pollination Demonstration – Use a cotton ball to transfer “pollen” between flowers
  3. Make a Rain Gauge – Measure and track rainfall over a week
  4. Sorting Living vs. Non-Living Things – Classify pictures or real-life objects
  5. Water Cycle in a Bag – Create condensation and precipitation inside a sealed plastic bag

Summer Science (Jun- Aug)

  • Simple Machines – How ramps, levers, and pulleys help us do work
  • Sound & Light – How vibrations create sound and how light travels
  • Oceans & Marine Life – What lives in the ocean and how waves form
  • Magnets & Forces – Exploring push, pull, and magnetic attraction

Summer Science Activities:

  1. Building a Paper Roller Coaster – Experiment with ramps and gravity
  2. Exploring Shadows with a Flashlight – Test how different objects block light
  3. Floating & Sinking Ocean Science – Test what items sink or float in water
  4. Magnet Sorting Activity – Find objects that are magnetic and non-magnetic
  5. Homemade Kazoo Experiment – Learn how vibrations create sound

How to Use These Science Activities

  • Encourage hands-on exploration – Let kids experiment, make predictions, and observe
  • Use real-world connections – Relate science to everyday life (e.g., observing weather, planting a garden)
  • Ask open-ended questions – “What do you notice?” “What do you think will happen next?”
  • Make it fun! Science is about exploring, questioning, and discovering
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Kindergarten Science

Kindergarten Science Topics & Activities for the Year!

Kindergarten is an exciting time for young scientists! Science at this stage is all about exploring, observing, and hands-on discovery. Throughout the year, we cover a variety of science topics that help kids build a strong foundation for understanding the world around them.

Below, you’ll find a breakdown of key kindergarten science topics by season and a list of 20+ engaging activities to bring science to life in fun, hands-on ways!

💡Check out the Libraries for printables or use the search bar.

Fall Science (Sept – Nov)

  • The 5 Senses – How we see, hear, smell, taste, and touch the world
  • Living vs. Non-Living Things – What makes something alive?
  • Weather & Seasons – Observing fall changes and comparing to other seasons
  • Plant Life Cycles – Apples, pumpkins, and leaves changing color

Fall Science Activities:

  1. Leaf Chromatography – Separate colors in leaves using coffee filters
  2. Apple Investigation – Sink or float, taste test, and apple stamping
  3. Pumpkin Exploration – Count seeds, test if pumpkins float, and carve one open
  4. 5 Senses Sensory Bin – Gather items with different textures, smells, and sounds
  5. Weather Charting – Observe and track sunny, rainy, and cloudy days

Winter Science (Dec- Feb)

  • Day & Night – Why does the sun go up and down?
  • States of Matter – Solid, liquid, and gas
  • Animal Hibernation & Adaptations – How animals survive winter
  • Ice & Snow Experiments – Melting, freezing, and insulation

Winter Science Activities:

  1. Salt & Ice Experiment – Sprinkle salt on ice and observe how it melts
  2. Winter Animal Sorting – Match animals to their winter survival strategies
  3. Glow-in-the-Dark Moon Phases – Explore day and night sky changes
  4. Snowstorm in a Jar – Make a swirling snowstorm with oil and water
  5. Blubber Experiment – Use shortening to show how animals stay warm

Spring Science (Mar- May)

  • Plant Growth & Needs – What plants need to survive
  • Insects & Life Cycles – Butterflies, bees, and ladybugs
  • Earth Science – Rocks, soil, and taking care of the planet
  • Sun & Shadows – How light creates shadows

Spring Science Activities:

  1. Planting Seeds – Grow beans in a clear cup to watch roots form
  2. Butterfly Life Cycle Craft – Make a pasta model of a butterfly’s stages
  3. Shadow Tracing – Trace objects outside at different times of day
  4. Soil Layers in a Jar – Explore different types of soil by layering them
  5. Bee Pollination Demonstration – Use a cotton ball to move “pollen” between flowers

Summer Science (Jun- Aug)

  • Water Science – Exploring liquids and floating/sinking
  • Ocean Life & Habitats – What lives in the ocean?
  • Simple Machines – Ramps, wheels, and levers in action
  • Heat & Temperature – Learning how the sun warms the earth

Summer Science Activities:

  1. Sink or Float Experiment – Test different objects in water
  2. Building a Sandcastle STEM Challenge – What makes a strong sandcastle?
  3. Rolling Ramp Race – Test how different objects roll down ramps
  4. Melting Ice Cube Race – Which melts faster in the sun?
  5. Homemade Ocean in a Bottle – Create an ocean habitat with water, oil, and sea creature toys

How to Use These Science Activities

  • Pair science with books – Read a story that relates to the science concept
  • Set Up a Science Center – Create a small exploration station with printables, real objects, and simple experiments.
  • Make it hands-on – Let kids explore through touching, observing, and experimenting
  • Ask questions – “What do you think will happen?” or “What do you notice?”
  • Keep it simple & fun! Science at this age is about exploring, not memorizing facts

 

 

 

 

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Simple Machines for Kids

Explore Simple Machines for Kids: Hands-On STEM Learning

These simple machine projects are an engaging and hands-on way for kids to learn the science behind simple machines! Discover how simple machines make work easier, explore everyday examples, and try your hand at designing and building your own simple machine. These activities are perfect for elementary and middle school students, sparking curiosity and fostering problem-solving skills.

Why Build Simple Machines with Kids?

Building simple machines is a fantastic way to help kids understand the mechanics behind how things work. These easy STEM activities provide high-impact learning opportunities while keeping the materials simple and accessible—many projects can be done using recycled items or inexpensive supplies!

By working on these activities, kids gain:

  • A deeper understanding of forces and mechanical advantage.
  • Valuable problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
  • Opportunities to brainstorm, troubleshoot, and create innovative solutions.

What Are Simple Machines?

Simple machines are basic mechanical devices that make tasks easier by altering the force required to perform work. They provide a mechanical advantage, allowing us to lift, push, or move objects with less effort.

There are six main types of simple machines:

  1. Lever
  2. Wheel and Axle
  3. Pulley
  4. Inclined Plane
  5. Wedge
  6. Screw

These simple machines are often combined to form complex machines used in everything from construction to everyday tools. Understanding them is key to grasping engineering, physics, and problem-solving concepts.

How Do Simple Machines Make Work Easier?

Simple machines reduce the force needed to perform tasks by:

  1. Changing the direction of the applied force (e.g., pulleys).
  2. Multiplying the input force (e.g., levers, gears).
  3. Spreading the force over a longer distance (e.g., inclined planes).

For example:

  • Like a seesaw or crowbar, a lever lets you lift heavy objects with less force.
  • A pulley system redirects force, allowing you to easily lift objects vertically.
  • An inclined plane reduces the effort needed to move objects by increasing the distance over which the force is applied.

Examples of Simple Machines in Everyday Life

Simple machines surround us and are vital to our daily lives. Here are real-life examples to spark recognition and curiosity:

1. Lever

  • Seesaws and scissors are classic examples of levers.
  • Bottle openers make it easy to pop off caps.
  • Hammer claws are used to pull out nails effortlessly.
  • Light switches operate as levers to turn lights on and off.

2. Wheel and Axle

  • Bicycle pedals use a wheel and axle system to transfer force from your feet to the wheels.
  • Rolling suitcases make heavy loads portable.
  • Doorknobs allow us to open doors with minimal effort.
  • Rolling pins help evenly flatten dough in baking.

3. Pulley

  • Elevators use pulley systems to lift and lower cabins.
  • Window blinds are made easier to open with small pulleys.
  • Flagpoles let you raise and lower flags.
  • Construction cranes lift heavy materials using advanced pulley systems.

4. Inclined Plane

  • Wheelchair ramps make buildings accessible without requiring much lifting effort.
  • Slides are fun examples of inclined planes that use gravity to move objects down.
  • Moving ramps in loading docks or trucks assist in transporting heavy items.
  • Driveways often incorporate a slant, making it easier to push objects up.

5. Wedge

  • Knives and axes split or cut materials with less effort.
  • Nails and screws penetrate surfaces to hold things together.
  • Doorstops prevent doors from moving.
  • Shovels use wedge edges to cut into the ground.

6. Screw

  • Jar lids twist easily to open or close jars.
  • Bolts secure objects tightly.
  • Bottle caps ensure that the contents stay sealed.
  • Corkscrews use a screw mechanism to remove corks from bottles.

7. Compound Machines (Combinations of Simple Machines)

  • Bicycles use wheels, axles, pulleys, and levers.
  • Wheelbarrows combine levers and wheels to carry heavy loads.
  • Can openers combine levers, wedges, and wheels for efficient opening.
  • Scissors use levers and wedges to cut materials easily.

Simple Machine Projects for Kids

Here’s a list of creative and exciting projects that combine fun with learning. Each project includes detailed instructions and free printables!

1. Archimedes Screw

Build a working water screw inspired by Archimedes. This classic project teaches kids about inclined planes and rotational motion.

2. Balloon-Powered Car

Use the force of air to power a car and explore how wheel and axle systems work. Experiment with different designs to maximize speed and distance.

3. Candy Gears

Create a gear train using candy and observe how gears transfer motion and change rotational speed.

4. Catapults

Build levers with various materials (craft sticks, pencils, LEGO) and test their ability to launch objects. A great introduction to the concept of mechanical advantage!

5. Pulley Systems

Build a functional pulley system to lift objects. Try variations like outdoor pulleys or a PVC pipe pulley system.

6. Rubber Band Cars

Explore potential and kinetic energy by building cars powered by rubber bands. Modify designs to improve performance.

7. Snow Shovel STEM Challenge

Build a snow shovel from simple materials, like cardboard and craft sticks, and use it to scoop up “fake snow.” This challenge demonstrates how a lever can lift and move materials. Add extra fun by creating a contest to see who can design the most effective snow shovel or lift the most “snow” in one scoop!

8. Ramp STEM Challenge

Design and test a ramp to explore the principles of an inclined plane. Suggestions:

  • Toy Car Races: Build ramps of different angles and materials to observe how incline affects speed and distance.

Extend the Learning

  • Real-World Applications: Discuss how construction equipment, vehicles, and household tools utilize simple machines.
  • STEM Career Exploration: Highlight careers in engineering and design that rely on the principles of simple machines.
  • Creative Challenges: Have kids design their own inventions, combining multiple simple machines to solve everyday problems.
  • Interactive Worksheets: Download our simple machine worksheets with hands-on activities and reflection pages to reinforce learning.

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Members STEM

Understanding Variables in Science

 

What Are Scientific Variables?
In science, variables are any factor that can be changed in an experiment to help us understand how different factors can affect an experiment or situation. Specifically, three different variables help us answer the question we are investigating. Identifying these variables before you start will guide your decisions about how to conduct your experiment and how to measure the results.

💡 We use variables when we apply the scientific method to our experiments.

Three Types of Variables

The three kinds of variables are independent, dependent, and controlled variables. You want to implement variables in any scientific investigation to ensure a fair test.

💡 Let’s use our Plant Growth Experiment as an example to understand the variables better.

Independent Variable

In a science experiment, the independent variable is the factor you will change. This variable affects the dependent variable. You can identify the independent variable by looking at what can exist in differing amounts or types and what is directly related to your experiment’s question. 👉 For example, if you are testing how different amounts of water affect plant growth, the amount of water would be the independent variable. You can change how much water you give the plants to see how it affects their growth.

💡 Remember, choose only one independent variable for your experiment!

Dependent Variable

The dependent variable is the factor that you observe or measure in an experiment. It is the variable that is affected by changes made to the independent variable. Note: the number of dependent variables can be more than one. 👉 The dependent variable would be the plant’s growth. We are measuring the plant’s growth to see how it is affected by the volume of water it is given.

Controlled Variables (Constant Variables)

Control variables are the factors that you keep the same in the science experiment. This helps ensure that any changes in the dependent variable are due to the independent variable and not something else. With some experiments, you may choose to set up a control that has no amount of the independent variable added to it. All other factors are the same. This is great for comparison. 👉 For example, in our plant growth experiment you would keep the type and amount of soil, including the type of fertilizer, the type of plant, and the amount of sunlight, all the same, so that you can be sure that any changes in plant growth are only due to the different amounts of water you give them. You could also have one plant that you give no water.

Grab the printable science project variables sheet!

Variables and Writing A Hypothesis
Choosing variables is essential for writing a good hypothesis because variables help you define what you are testing and observing in a science experiment. A hypothesis predicts how one variable (the independent variable) affects another (the dependent variable). It explains the relationship between the independent and dependent variables.

💡 Learn more about how to write a good hypothesis for kids.