Unit Plan 26 (PreK Social Studies): Tools and Technology Then and Now
Tools change over time—kids compare old vs. new, explore materials like wood and metal, and see how technology helps people work more easily.
Focus: Help children notice and compare old and new tools and technology, and understand that people use resources (like wood, metal, and plastic) to make tools that help us work more easily.
Grade Level: PreK
Subject Area: Social Studies (History • Economics)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 15–20 minutes per session
I. Introduction
In this unit, children explore how tools and technology have changed over time. Through simple stories, photos, and hands-on exploration, they compare old tools (like hand beaters, brooms, or old telephones) with new tools and machines (mixers, vacuums, smartphones). Children begin to see that people use resources to make tools and that tools help us work, clean, build, and communicate more easily.
The emphasis is on concrete experiences: looking closely at pictures or safe real objects, acting out how tools are used, and talking about what is “then” and “now.” Children connect these ideas to their own lives (e.g., using a tablet or broom at home).
Essential Questions
- What are tools and technology that people use?
- How are tools from long ago different from tools we use today?
- How do tools help make work easier?
- What are some materials (resources) used to make tools?
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:
- Look at pictures or objects and tell or show how a tool is used.
- Notice and share one difference between an old tool and a new tool that do similar jobs.
- Use simple language like “long ago” and “now” when talking about tools or technology.
- Identify that tools are made from materials/resources such as wood, metal, or plastic.
- Contribute to a class chart or mini-book comparing tools “then and now” and how they help people.
Standards Alignment — PreK (C3-based custom)
- PK.C3.Hist.2 — Recognize change over time. Compares past and present experiences.
- Example: “When I was little, I had a crib.”
- PK.C3.Econ.5 — Describe how people use resources. Notices how we use natural or manmade items for living.
- Example: “We use trees to make paper.”
Success Criteria — Student Language
- I can tell or show how a tool is used.
- I can say or show what is different between an old tool and a new tool.
- I can use “long ago” and “now” when I talk about tools.
- I can point to or name what a tool is made of (wood, metal, plastic).