Light Table Nature Exploration

Lesson Plan:

Activity: Light Table Nature Exploration
Lesson plan developed by Aurora Tollestrup, BS Ed

Age Group:

Toddler

Objectives:

Child will use the materials to explore common elements of nature in a new way.

Light Table Nature Exploration

CDA Competency Standard:

II.5.1a

Activities encourage curiosity, exploration and discovery

a) Activities involve developmentally appropriate, hands-on experiences

Materials:

laminated leaves, flowers, and other flat natural materials
twigs
pinecones
sand
light table

Procedure:

To prepare materials:

Laminate flat natural materials such as flowers, petals, grass, leaves and more.

For the activity:

Invite children to explore the natural materials on top of the light table.
Encourage stacking different materials to see how colors and shapes change.

Assessment:

Observe and record children’s experience with the materials.

Washington STARS Training Online

Click on the course icon for enrollment information.

What does STEM look like for infants and toddlers?

Science
Observing, describing, communicating, exploring, asking questions

Example: Exploring a sensory bin

Technology
Using tools, creating tools or solving problems through a process

Example: Using a measuring cup to scoop and drink water instead of a sippy cup

Engineering
Building or creating things to meet a need or requirement
Example: Moving a box near a countertop to use as a step stool

Math
Counting, sorting, shapes, spatial relationships, patterns

Example: Understanding that a toy is just behind an adult’s back and not gone forever