Allow students to unleash their creative side by incorporating art into this project. Display an animal and plant cell for students. Discuss with students the differences and similarities of the two. Explain that everything alive is made up of cells. Leave a large list of cell parts at the front of the classroom. Give students old file folders and paint supplies to create their representation of each cell. Tell students to open the file folder and paint an animal cell on one side and the plant cell on the other. After they dry, instruct students to neatly label every part. Students should present their paintings to the class.
Turn the classroom into a laboratory by giving children a place to observe, practice experiments and assess the results. Send children outside to enjoy the weather and find an unknown object. When they have returned to the classroom, go over the scientific process with them. Instruct students to write down the steps and how they completed them while researching the unknown object they brought in from outside. Tell students to present their findings to the class. Finish by expanding on the scientific method and how it is used by scientists.
Begin by showing students several examples of ecosystems and discussing why certain animals or plants exist in that environment. Divide students into groups of three or four. Guide each group through the process of selecting an ecosystem to research and model. Give each group a cardboard box and art supplies. Show students an example of a diorama, explaining that they should create a model of the ecosystem using the box. When they are finished, have the students present their projects to their peers.
Review weather concepts with students. Take students outside each day to observe the weather. Place a thermometer near the door and have students record the temperature and weather in a notebook. Once inside add these to a chart with five boxes. After students have completed the chart, have them create a line graph. Talk about how the line graph makes it easier to quickly see what day was the warmest.