LS.K.2.1
Analyze and interpret data to compare the characteristics of different types of the same animal to determine individual similarities and differences.
Embedded Files
District Recommended Resources for Kindergarten Grade Science
Science Phenomena Resources
Next Generation Science Standards YouTube Channel
Step 1: Lesson Standards & Learning Goals
Dimension 1:
Science and Engineering Practice:
Analyze and Interpret Data: With guidance and support, use observations (firsthand or from media) to describe patterns and/or relationships when comparing the characteristics of different types of the same animal. (e.g., different types of dogs) in order to answer scientific questions. (NSTA SEP Matrix)
Dimension 2:
Crosscutting Concepts: Patterns
Dimension 3:
Disciplinary Core Ideas:
LS3.B Individuals of the same kind of plant or animal are recognizable as similar but can also vary in many ways (A Framework for K-12 Science Education).
Sample Essential Questions
Sample Essential Questions
How do we compare and contrast living organisms?
How can we describe the differences between two animals of the same type?
Vocabulary
Vocabulary
alike
characteristics
compare
contrast
data
different
observation
similar
Students will be able to...
Students will be able to...
Recognize observable characteristics of animals (e.g., color, size, structure, shape, smell, texture, sound)
Observe a variety of one type of animal (e.g., dogs)
Identify similarities of the same type of animal (e.g,. these dogs have two eyes, long ears, fur and four legs) either through direct observations or obtained from media.
Identify differences of the same type of animal (e.g., this dog has brown fur and this dog has spots; this dog is tall and this dog is short) either through direct observations or obtained from media.
Compare the characteristics of the same type of animal (e.g., both dogs have fur and a wet nose, but one dog has a long tail and the other dog has a short tail.) either through direct observations or obtained from media.
Engaging in Argument from Evidence- Construct an argument with evidence to support comparative statements.
Asking Questions- Ask questions based on observations of various animals to obtain information about their similarities and differences.
Students will know...
Students will know...
Animals are living organisms.
Animals of the same type can have different characteristics (ex. dogs).
Observable characteristics include color, size, structure, shape, smell, texture, sound, etc.
Step 2: Assessment
Formative Assessments
Formative Assessments
Writing Prompts
What are the characteristics of ____?
How are the characteristics of ___ and ____ the same?
How are the characteristics of ___ and ____ different?
When making observations about the characteristics of animals, the teacher records the observations as data in a T-chart with each animal as the heading of a column. Students analyze the data to make statements comparing the two animals. (e.g., Students make observations about two dogs (e.g., greyhound and chihuahua). The teacher creates a graphic organizer with a greyhound on one column and a chihuahua on the other column. The teacher records the observations as data. After all the observations are given, the teacher says, “Let’s compare these two dogs. How are they the same? How are they different?” Students might say, “Both dogs have eyes. The greyhound is tall and the chihuahua is short.”)
Mini Projects and Investigations
Graphic Organizers
Students can bring a picture of their pet to school, (or just give each student a picture card with an animal on it). Assign students a partner and have students find the similarities and differences with their two animals.
Compare two popular dog breeds (e.g., Labrador Retriever vs. Dachshund). Use a simple Venn diagram to list what is similar and different.
NCDPI Formative Assessment Samples
Culminating Activity
Give students a picture of two of the same type of animal and have students describe the similarities and differences. Record responses using a Venn diagram or t-chart.
Step 3: Lesson Instructions
Possible Activating Strategies
Possible Activating Strategies
Discourse:
Put a picture of two dogs on the board. Ask students to look at the dogs in the picture and find all the the ways the dogs are alike. Then have them find the ways the dogs are different. Explain to students that we can use the characteristics of living organisms to compare and contrast two of the same type of animal.
Graphic Organizer:
Stuffed Animal Comparisons
Use plush toys of different sizes and types. Ask children to describe differences using size, softness, or colors. Record on a Venn diagram or t-chart.
Find Someone Who
Additional Literacy Connections
Science A to Z
Living and Non-Living Things
Animals, Animals
epic!
Different Dogs by: Pam Holden
Cats by: M.C. Swensen (Epic)
Zoom in on Dogs Series by Leo Statts
Labrador Retrievers, Pugs, Boxers, Bulldogs, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers
Abdo Kids Cats Series by Grace Hansen
Calico Cats, Manx Cats, Persian Cats, Scottish Fold Cats, Siamese Cats, Maine Coon Cats
Big Cats: Jaguars by Claire Archer
Readworks:
Page updated
Report abuse