Seasonal Sensory Scavenger Hunts

Ecosystem Explorers invites students to use their senses—touch, smell, feel, and hear—to observe and categorize the living and non-living components of their environment. Through this interactive activity, students deepen their understanding of ecosystems by identifying patterns and exploring how plants, animals, water, land, and air interact.

Grade Level: Pre-K - 6

Time: 15 - 45 minutes

Learning Standards: ESS2.C, LS1.A, LS2.A, SL.1, SL.2, W.2

What we are Learning?

The importance of ecosystems as interconnected systems
The role of sensory observation in understanding the environment
Patterns and interactions between living and non-living components in ecosystems

Materials Needed

PDF of your choice below
Pencils
Clipboards
Coloring pencils or crayons to draw observations
Optional/laminate and use dry erase or projection markers to wipe away

How is it done?

We recommend this lesson be performed in the same environment over a series of seasons close to the classroom or schoolyard.
Set up a parameter and ground rules
- Stay with your group
- Use a timer to keep consistent
- Stay in the boundaries set up
  - cones
  - survey tapes
  - landmarks
- Use sheets to count the items and place that number in the circle
  - tallies may work also
- After, come back together to discuss and compare observations
- Possible extensions include writing, drawing, or creating models based on observations
- Empty space can be used for human activity or an illustration

What to Expect?

Participants will be able to identify changes in environment in a specific area during the seasonal change.
Prompting or adult help may be necessary for younger students.
Students will use senses throughout activity