Document Type
Teacher Resource
Grade Level
Grade Level: Kindergarten
Publication Date
5-2020
Background Information
Students in kindergarten develop the understandings of basic needs, weather patterns, the concepts of push and pull, engineering, and the applications of science. Through identification of patterns, determination of cause and effect, investigation of structure and function, as well as systems and system models students begin to make sense of the natural world. Developmentally appropriate use of science and engineering practices prepares students for more complex phenomenon. December through February comprise the winter season in the Northern hemisphere. Changes in temperatures, forms of precipitation, types of storms, and preparedness plans occur during winter. Average daily temperatures in the Chicago area range from a high of 36°F to 18°F as a low, while precipitation ranges from 1.93 inches to 2.56 inches. These are average conditions for the winter season.
Freezing rain may accumulate making walking and driving difficult. Trees and power lines may fall due to the weight of the ice. Snow, caused by water vapor freezing in the air, may have similar consequences as freezing rain. When visibility is extremely limited due to blowing snow the event is classified as a blizzard. Health concerns during the winter season include dry skin due to evaporation of water from the skin. Due to the amount of time indoors, immune systems may be compromised. Frostbite may happen within a few minutes of skin exposure to extreme cold. Due to slippery conditions, such as ice, injuries from falls may increase. Those susceptible to respiratory conditions may experience difficulties due to the temperatures. Weather forecasting, storm advisories, snow/ice removal, and dressing appropriately for the weather aid in preparedness for the effects of winter.
Performance Expectations
K-2ETS1-1 Design Challenge:
Ask questions, make observations, and gather information about a situation people want to change to define a simple problem that can be solved through the development of a new or improved object or tool.
https://www.nextgenscience.org/pe/k-2-ets1-1-engineering-design
Recommended Citation
Martinez, Elizabeth, "Engineering, Technology, and Applications of Science - WINTER CLOTHING CHALLENGE: Engineering" (2020). Model NGSS Lessons: Kindergarten - 3rd Grade. 8.
https://digitalcommons.imsa.edu/model_ngss_lessons_k_3/8