One of the basic concepts in science is recognizing that all things can be classified as living or nonliving. In this lesson, your students will explore the characteristics of living and nonliving things with engaging hands-on activities.

This lesson, perfect for first and second grade learners, will help kids become environmental activists as they think of ways to help the Earth! First, students will brainstorm examples of what it means to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Next, students will partake in a creative art project where they trace their hands and think of way ways they can give the planet a hand. This engaging activity integrates creative writing skills and Earth science.

Provide students with an opportunity to closely examine the difference between a topic and main idea in a nonfiction text. Use as a stand-alone activity or a support for the Finding the Main Idea and Details in a Nonfiction Text lesson.