Sensory ActivitY (k-2)

“What is the Environment” Extension

Overview

Continue your students' exploration of the parts of our environment with an environment themed sensory table or tub. By engaging in open-ended sensory play with human-made and natural elements of the environment, students will be able to further engage with concepts covered during their CiS Lesson.

Materials

• Sensory Base, such as sand, rice, or shredded paper — choose something that resembles grass or earth

• Toys that resemble natural objects such as plants and animals

• Toys that resemble human-made objects, such as cars, furniture, or people

  Toys for sensory play, such as buckets or scoops

Activity Duration:

• 10 minute set-up, play can last for as long as students are interested!

Place the sensory base in your sensory tubs or sensory table. Add natural, human-made, and sensory toys. Let children explore!

Further Extensions

Go on a "photo safari." Using old or toy cameras (or imaginary finger cameras!), have students take "pictures" of the environment. They can draw out what their "picture" looks like and label different parts of the environment. Tell your students you are going to make the environment in the sensory table. Just like in the CiS lesson, start with just natural objects. As the week goes on, slowly add human-made items to the mix. Discuss the changes happening to your environment over time.