First graders should be learning fundamentals skills in topics like physical science, life science, and Earth science. Students should also learn the importance of observation, note taking, and communicating information, all essential skills that they will put to use as they continue to learn more advanced science concepts throughout the years.
Since science standards vary by state, be sure to inquire about what your state’s specific homeschool laws are as they pertain to first grade science. Generally, a first grade science curriculum should teach the following:
Life science (plants, animals, habitats)
Distinguishing between living and nonliving things
States of matter (solid, liquid, gas)
Classification of animals and different animal habitats
Earth and space science (solar system and beyond)
The different parts and functions of plants
Earth/space science including the water cycle and weather
Type of light energy; the characteristic of sound energy (pitch, volume, etc.)
What Science Should a 1st Grade Know?
1st Grade Science Goals/Objective
A first grade science curriculum should reteach and expand on what students learned in kindergarten, teach more advanced concepts on those topics, and introduce new material.
An effective first grade science curriculum will also give students the opportunity to make real life connections with what they are studying.
Below is a general overview of the science objectives for first grade.
Distinguish between the states of matter and how they can change
Identify the different parts and functions of plants
Distinguish between living and nonliving things
Ask scientific questions, observe using their senses, create hypothesis, draw conclusions, share data
Understand the water cycle, weather patterns, and seasons
Classify animals and the different habitats they live in
Children have an innate curiosity about the world around them. From the moment they can crawl and communicate, they begin to use their five senses to explore everything around them as they ask questions to learn more. In a way, children are natural born scientists.
A first grade science curriculum should quench that thirst for knowledge as students learn foundational science skills, take part in hands-on activities, and make real world connections. Introducing students to science during the early elementary years helps prepare them for more advanced science concepts that they will learn in the years to follow.