Lesson 6: Making Simple Records and Talking About Observations

Reception science lesson on observing different environments

This Reception science lesson on observing different environments helps pupils explore how the ground can differ between habitats and environments. As part of the Different Environments unit, pupils investigate soil, sand, rocks and water while considering which plants and animals might live in each environment.

Through practical exploration and discussion, pupils compare textures, identify similarities and differences, and begin using scientific vocabulary to describe what they observe. Children investigate real materials, record their findings and create their own environment collages to demonstrate their understanding.

Lesson includes

• Interactive teaching slides exploring different ground types and environments
• Detailed lesson plan with questioning opportunities, assessment guidance and continuous provision ideas
• Ground Observation worksheet and Recording worksheet
• Environment Pictures and Living Things Pictures for discussion and classification
• Hands-on investigation trays containing soil, sand, rocks and water
• Magnifying glass and tweezers exploration activities
• Environment collage activity linked to habitats and living things

Develop observation and scientific communication skills

This lesson encourages pupils to observe carefully, discuss findings and record their ideas using simple scientific language. Through practical investigation, children compare different ground types, consider which living things might live there and explain their thinking using evidence from their observations.

By exploring, recording and discussing different environments, pupils develop early scientific enquiry skills while building their understanding of habitats, living things and the natural world.

Explore more resources from our Reception Different Environments unit, including lesson packs, assessments and knowledge organisers.

Looking for complete curriculum coverage? Explore our EYFS Science Scheme, which includes lesson packs, assessments, knowledge organisers and teaching resources covering the full Reception science curriculum.