Virginia SOL 2.1.a.ii

Science2nd GradeScientific and Engineering Practices

The Standard

make predictions based on observations and prior experiences

Virginia Standards of Learning for Science · The student will demonstrate an understanding of scientific and engineering practices by

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students observe an object or event, then say what they think will happen next. They support the prediction with a detail they noticed or something they experienced before.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student makes a reasonable prediction before a test and explains it using evidence. After observing the result, the student can compare it with the prediction without changing the original claim.
Common Misconceptions: Students may treat a prediction as a random guess or claim it must be correct. They may also change their prediction after seeing the result or give a reason unrelated to their observation.
How to Assess It: Show an ice cube on a plate and ask, “What will happen after ten minutes, and what observation or past experience supports your prediction?”

Lesson moves

Place ice cubes in sun and shade, then have students predict which will melt faster and explain their evidence before timing both.
Ask students to write, “I predict the classroom plant will change this week because I noticed…” and share their reasoning with a partner.
Play Prediction Match by pairing picture cards showing an event with cards showing likely outcomes, then have students explain each match.
Check tomorrow’s weather forecast, observe the sky, and have students predict whether recess will be indoors or outdoors using both sources.

Free download

A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to 2.1.a.ii, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.

PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.

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