K-LS1-1
The standard
Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
Next Generation Science Standards
What this standard means
Students need to observe plants, animals, and people, then name patterns in what living things need. They should notice that plants need light and water, while animals need food and water. They should use simple evidence from pictures, class pets, seed cups, videos, or outdoor observations.
Mastery looks like a child saying, “All of these living things need water,” or “The plant grew better near the window.” Students often mix up plant and animal needs. Many think plants “eat” soil, or that every animal eats the same food.
Ways to teach it
- Plant bean seeds in two cups, one near a window and one in a dark cabinet, then compare changes after several days.
- Ask, “What does a rabbit need that a sunflower does not need?” and have students draw and label their answer.
- Show four picture cards, plant, dog, child, rock, and ask students to circle the ones that need water.
- Read a pet care label or plant tag, then list what the living thing needs to stay alive.
Plan a lesson for K-LS1-1
Generate a complete lesson plan aligned to this standard, with objectives, activities, and materials. Free, no account needed.
Related standards
- K-ESS2-2
Construct an argument supported by evidence for how plants and animals (including humans) can change the environment to meet their needs.
- K-ESS3-1
Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants or animals (including humans) and the places they live.
- 2-LS4-1
Make observations of plants and animals to compare the diversity of life in different habitats.
- 1-LS1-1
Use materials to design a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their...