Set up the classroom with standard stations of dramatic play, science, building area and art, but create one or two other stations with rotating displays. For example, name one station "Out of the Ordinary," and feature a daily or weekly item that is unique to our environment, such as a Venus fly trap.
Bring nature inside by creating an indoor science center with items collected from nature walks. Feature a live plant or animal display as well. For example, collect frog eggs or chicken eggs and let children witness the changes. Science and the outdoors have a vast amount of natural tools that pique children's interest, and creating new displays sparks curiosity.
Select books that correlate with the theme of the unit for students that prefer to read, rather than learn in a more physical setting. The books will connect the topic to displays and allow for discussion. For example, a story about rainbows can encourage discussion about their creation, which will tie into a demonstration.
Combine items from opposing stations to stimulate curiosity and discover new uses for standard objects. For example, beads from dramatic play that are placed in the math station, allow children to work on counting and building with new objects.
Create a discovery list that asks questions for students to ponder, including links to informational tools that allow children to discover new topics on their own. Incorporate this list into a problem-solving display that features the main idea or question that needs to be solved. For example, unite a discovery list featuring questions about the weather with a display about rain formation.