Signs of Spring

Social Studies/Science

Children will create a report about signs of spring that they have observed.

What You Need

• Notebooks, pencils
• Role-playing props such as microphones (optional)
• Crayons, markers

What To Do

1. Discuss with children how the world changes when spring arrives. Make a list of the following areas that reflect changes when spring comes: Weather, Animals, Landscape, Clothing, Sports.
2. Brainstorm with children signs of spring in these categories. Use the following examples as prompts:
   • Weather: warm breezes, longer days, more sunlight, rain instead of snow
   • Animals: birds and butterflies travel north, earthworms come out of the ground, frogs sing, horses, dogs, and cats shed their winter coats
   • Landscape: flowers bloom, trees and plants bud, seeds sprout, grass turns green, lakes and ponds melt
   • Clothing: brighter colors; lighter jackets and other outerwear; T-shirts and shorts
   • Sports: children can play sports and games outside, such as soccer, kickball, Frisbee, baseball, and bike riding
3. Divide the class into groups based on the categories. Tell children to look for signs of spring and note them with drawings and words over the course of a week. At the end of the week, group members will compare notes and then report to the class on signs of spring in their categories.
4. Have each group choose a format and share observations among members so that everyone can participate. They can:
   • role-play a TV report, (using a "news desk" with desks or tables)
   • role-play a radio report (using a microphone prop)
   • create a newspaper report (with pictures and headlines) for classroom display.