2-ESS1-1
The standard
Use information from several sources to provide evidence that Earth events can occur quickly or slowly.
Next Generation Science Standards
What this standard means
Students need to gather facts from more than one source, such as photos, short videos, maps, or simple readings. They use those facts to show that some Earth changes happen fast, like earthquakes or volcanoes, and others happen slowly, like rocks wearing down.
Mastery looks like sorting events by fast and slow, then backing up the choice with evidence from sources. Students often think all big changes happen slowly, or that slow changes mean nothing is happening. They may also name a source without using facts from it.
Ways to teach it
- Hands-on: Shake a tray of sand and blocks, then drip water on a rock or chalk to compare fast and slow changes.
- Prompt: Use two sources to explain whether a volcano, earthquake, or worn-down rock changed quickly or slowly.
- Quick check: Show three images and have students label fast or slow, then write one evidence sentence for each.
- Real-world connection: Look at a cracked sidewalk and a pothole photo, then discuss which changes happened quickly or slowly.
Plan a lesson for 2-ESS1-1
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
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