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Reception Science Block 3: Different Environments

Reception Science: Different Environments

Our Reception science different environments unit is a practical EYFS science unit that supports pupils to observe, compare and talk about a range of habitats and places. Part of the Scintillating Science programme and aligned with the EYFS Framework, it helps children build early enquiry skills through questioning, discussion and sensory exploration.

These Reception science lesson plans include teaching slides, differentiated activity sheets, knowledge organisers and assessment opportunities, making them ideal for teachers looking for engaging Reception science activities and clear Understanding the World coverage.

View lesson overview and skills

Reception science lessons in this unit

  • Lesson 1: Finding similarities and differences
  • Lesson 2: Being curious and asking questions
  • Lesson 3: Performing simple tests and using equipment
  • Lesson 4: Using senses to observe and look closely
  • Lesson 5: Looking closely and noticing changes
  • Lesson 6: Making simple records and talking about observations

Key skills developed throughout

  • Talking about what I have done and noticed
  • Comparing environments using descriptive vocabulary
  • Counting and recording numbers to 10 and beyond
  • Comparing length using real objects and simple measures

Reception science different environments lesson plans and resources

Teach Reception science different environments with a practical unit that helps pupils explore a range of habitats and places through observation, comparison and discussion. Part of the Scintillating Science programme and aligned with the EYFS Framework, this unit supports Understanding the World and builds early enquiry skills that prepare pupils for Year 1 science.

It’s ideal for teachers looking for Reception science lesson plans, EYFS habitats activities, or engaging Reception science worksheets and activity sheets that encourage children to notice similarities and differences between environments.

What’s included?

  • Step-by-step planning for every lesson
  • Interactive teaching slides to support whole-class discussion
  • Differentiated activity sheets and recording pages for Reception science
  • Knowledge organisers with key vocabulary and pictures
  • Practical activities such as habitat sorting, sound walks and environment building
  • Assessment opportunities to help track pupil progress through observation and discussion

Working scientifically in Reception

  • Explore and compare a variety of environments using pictures, objects and real-life experiences
  • Use senses to notice features such as texture, sound, temperature and weather
  • Ask and answer questions about what they see, hear and feel
  • Sort and group objects or animals based on where they might belong
  • Record observations using drawings, labels, photos or simple charts

Key learning outcomes

  • Describe key features of a range of environments
  • Use vocabulary linked to habitats, weather and natural features
  • Recognise similarities and differences between environments
  • Explain simple ideas using observations and discussion

Why choose our Reception different environments unit?

  • Aligned with the EYFS Framework and Understanding the World
  • Clear progression across six practical Reception science lessons
  • Supports early scientific talk and vocabulary development
  • Includes differentiated activity sheets designed for Reception pupils
  • No year group labels on resources, making them suitable for mixed Reception and KS1 settings

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