Unit Plan 11 (Grade K Science): Shade & Heat

Focus: Compare objects in sun versus shade and describe temperature differences using observations and simple data.

Grade Level: K

Subject Area: Science (Physical Science • Earth & Space Science)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

Students investigate how shade changes the way sunlight warms Earth’s surface. Across the week, they test objects placed in sun and shade, use simple tools (touch-safe comparisons, classroom thermometers/temperature strips), and record data with pictures, tallies, and number labels. Students learn that shade blocks some sunlight, which often keeps surfaces cooler, and they practice making a class claim supported by evidence from repeated tests.

Essential Questions

• How does sunlight change the temperature of surfaces?
• What is shade, and how does it affect how warm something gets?
• How can we use data to compare sun vs. shade fairly?
• Why do people, animals, and plants use shade?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Make observations comparing objects placed in sun and shade.
2. Use simple tools to measure or compare temperature (e.g., thermometer, temperature strip, “warmer/cooler” sorting).
3. Record data in a class chart using pictures, tallies, or numbers.
4. Explain, in kid-friendly language, that shade can keep surfaces cooler by blocking sunlight.
5. Create a “Sun vs. Shade” mini-poster that includes a claim and at least one piece of evidence from class tests.

Standards Alignment — Kindergarten (NGSS-Aligned)

• K-PS3-1 — Make observations to determine the effect of sunlight on Earth’s surface.
  • Example: Compare how warm sand, water, pavement, or paper becomes in sun vs. shade.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can tell if something is in the sun or in the shade.
• I can say if something feels or measures warmer or cooler.
• I can help record our class data on a chart.
• I can explain that shade can keep things cooler.
• I can make a claim and point to our test results as evidence.