Oklahoma Science K.ESS3.2

ScienceKindergartenEarth and Human Activity

The Standard

Ask questions to understand the purpose of weather forecasting to prepare for and respond to severe weather.*

Oklahoma Academic Standards for Science (2026)

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Children ask questions about a weather forecast, such as when a storm might come and what people should do. They use the forecast to decide how to get ready and stay safe.
What Mastery Looks Like: Given a picture forecast showing a storm, a child asks when it might arrive and whether it is safe to go outside. They explain that the forecast gives people time to prepare and that they should follow an adult's directions during the storm.
Common Misconceptions: Children may think a sunny morning means a storm cannot come later. They may plan to use an umbrella during a dangerous storm instead of going inside with an adult.
How to Assess It: Show a picture forecast with a thunderstorm expected after lunch. Ask, "What would you ask about the storm, and what should our class do before going outside?"

Lesson moves

Give pairs a classroom map and a storm forecast card, then have them move a paper child indoors, away from windows.
Ask, "What would you ask a weather forecaster if a storm might come before recess?"
Play a matching game with forecast cards and picture cards showing safe choices, such as staying indoors during a thunderstorm.
Show a local storm forecast screenshot and ask, "What would you ask your family before walking to school?"

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