Scientist Activities ~ Being a Scientist

Being a Scientist" introductory unit is an excellent resource to kick off your science curriculum! It’s thoughtfully designed to help young learners understand what scientists do, while also integrating literacy, movement, and creative expression. Whether you're a first-year teacher or looking to refresh your science routines, here's a breakdown of the components and how you might want to use them effectively in your classroom.

🔍 Unit Focus

The unit centers on four foundational science actions:

• Observe
• Measure
• Classify
• Communicate

Each activity, vocabulary card, and writing page revolves around helping students internalize these key science processes.

🧪 What’s Included & How to Use It

✅ Vocabulary & Anchor Charts

• 4 Anchor Cards (full page & mini): Clear visuals and definitions for the four science actions.
• Use these to introduce and reinforce key terms daily.
• Post them near your science center for easy reference.

✂️ Hands-On Activities

• Being a Scientist Word Sort:
• A simple yet effective way to assess and build background knowledge. Have students revisit it at the end of the unit for comparison/reflection.
• Scientist Four Corners Game:
• Perfect for kinesthetic learners. Students choose a corner based on a question prompt about observing, measuring, classifying, or communicating.
• I Have, Who Has (Science Tools):
• Interactive and vocabulary-rich. A fantastic whole-group review game to build familiarity with science tools.
• Open-Ended Centers:
• Students practice the 4 science actions using any materials (magnifying glasses, rulers, objects to classify, etc.)
• Recording sheets make it easy to hold students accountable and assess understanding.

✏️ Writing & Reflection

• Graphic Organizers:
• Use for brainstorming “What Does a Scientist Do?” at the beginning and end of the unit. A great tool for informal assessment.
• Mini-Book:
• Students create a personalized science mini-book based on the 4 anchor terms—adds ownership and reinforces learning.
• "I Am a Scientist" Writing Sheet:
• Have students reflect on how they’ve been scientists in class—excellent for writing integration.
• Craftivity & Writing Pages:
• Low-prep and makes for a great bulletin board display. Combines creativity with meaningful writing.

🧒 Student Recognition

• Scientist Certificates:
• Celebrate completion of the unit! Includes boy/girl versions in color or black & white for easier printing.

📚 Extras & Support

• Clickable Booklist:
• Helpful for read-alouds or independent reading. You can align your literacy block or science center with these themed titles.
• Classroom Notes & Suggestions:
• Real classroom tips provided by the creator help guide implementation based on actual experience.

🎯 Why You’ll Love This Unit

• Engaging: Movement, art, reading, writing, and group games.
• Low Prep: Most pages are print-and-go.
• Cross-Curricular: Ties in science, literacy, and writing.
• Flexible: Great for both whole-class or small-group instruction.