Unit Plan 20 (PreK Science): Weather Tools & Clothes
PreK weather unit where children match daily weather to clothing and tools like coats, boots, and umbrellas, explaining choices using simple observations.
Focus: Match daily weather to appropriate clothing and simple tools (e.g., umbrella, boots, coat, hat) and explain choices using observations.
Grade Level: PreK
Subject Area: Science (Weather • Daily Routines • Communication)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 30–45 minutes per session
I. Introduction
This week, children become “Weather Helpers” who observe what it looks and feels like outside and then choose the best clothes and tools for the day. They use picture cards, pretend-play (dressing a class puppet), and simple classroom tools (toy thermometer, windsock, rain cup) to connect weather to real-life choices. Children practice using clear language—“I chose boots because it’s rainy”—and learn that weather can change, so people can prepare.
Essential Questions
- How can we tell what the weather is today using our senses and simple tools?
- What clothes help our bodies stay comfortable in different kinds of weather?
- What tools help us in rain, snow, wind, or sun?
- How can we explain our choices using “because” (e.g., “I chose a coat because it’s cold.”)?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Identify common daily weather types (e.g., sunny, cloudy, rainy, snowy, windy) using photos, symbols, or outdoor observations.
- Match weather types to appropriate clothing choices (e.g., coat, hat, boots, short sleeves) and explain the match with a simple reason.
- Match weather types to helpful tools (e.g., umbrella, raincoat, mittens, shade/hat) and describe how the tool helps.
- Use a class routine (weather chart) to record the day’s weather and practice saying, “Today is ___, so we should ___.”
- Participate in a short role-play or sorting task to show understanding of weather-to-choice connections.
Standards Alignment — PreK (NGSS-based custom)
- PK-ESS2-2 — Notice that weather affects clothing and activities.
- Example: Children connect weather to choices like coats, umbrellas, or indoor play by saying, “We need boots when it’s rainy.”
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can tell what the weather is today.
- I can pick clothes that match the weather.
- I can pick a tool (like an umbrella) that helps.
- I can say why I chose something: “I chose ___ because ___.”
- I can help our class fill out the weather chart.