Literacy, Numeracy, Science

Subjects Covered:

  • Literacy
  • Numeracy
  • Science

Activities:

  • Read and discuss autumn-themed books
  • Identify and sort autumn objects (leaves, acorns, etc.)
  • Count and compare the number of leaves from different trees
  • Create a hibernation corner with toy animals
  • Observe and record changes in the natural environment
  • Explore animal tracks and footprints

Resources:

  • Autumn-themed books
  • Autumn objects (leaves, acorns, etc.)
  • Hibernation corner (toy animals, soft blankets)
  • Observation notebooks
  • Magnifying glasses
  • Animal track cards

Differentiation:

  • Provide visual supports for literacy activities (pictures, labels)
  • Use manipulatives for numeracy activities (counting objects, number cards)
  • Offer different levels of challenge in sorting and comparing activities
  • Support language development through open-ended discussions
  • Provide additional resources for children with special needs

Arts Subjects

Subjects covered:

Activities:

Resources:

Differentiation:

Visual Arts
  • Create autumn leaf collages using different shapes and colors.
  • Paint and decorate pine cones to make autumn decorations.
  • Collaboratively create a large autumn nature mural.
  • Assorted autumn leaves
  • Pine cones
  • Paints
  • Glue
  • Large paper or cardboard for mural
  • Provide different leaf shapes and sizes for varied abilities.
  • Offer alternative materials for students with allergies or sensitivities.
  • Provide visuals or step-by-step instructions for students who may require extra support.

Music
  • Listen to and discuss songs about autumn and hibernation.
  • Create soundscapes using instruments to represent different aspects of nature.
  • Compose a class autumn song with lyrics and melody.
  • Recordings of autumn-themed songs
  • Various musical instruments
  • Lyric sheets
  • Provide visual aids, such as pictures or symbols, to support understanding of song lyrics.
  • Offer a range of instruments to cater to different interests and abilities.
  • Allow students to contribute to the song in different ways, such as singing, playing instruments, or creating movements.

Drama
  • Act out and dramatize animals preparing for hibernation.
  • Create and perform a simple play about autumn nature.
  • Use puppets or masks to retell autumn-themed stories.
  • Pictures or videos of animals preparing for hibernation
  • Props for the play (e.g., leaves, pine cones)
  • Puppets or masks
  • Provide visual or written cues to support students in remembering their lines or actions.
  • Allow students to choose their roles or adapt the play to their abilities and interests.
  • Offer alternative ways of participating, such as using puppets or assisting with backstage tasks.

Dance
  • Create and perform movements inspired by autumn nature.
  • Learn a simple dance routine to a seasonal song.
  • Improvise movements to represent different types of hibernating animals.
  • Music with a suitable tempo and theme
  • Open space for movement
  • Optional: Costumes or props for dance routines
  • Provide visual examples or demonstrations of the movements for students to follow.
  • Allow for individual expression and interpretation of the dance routines.
  • Adapt movements or provide alternatives for students with physical limitations.

Station Ideas

Station 1: Autumn Leaves Sorting

  • Provide a variety of autumn leaves for children to sort based on size, color, or shape.
  • Encourage discussions about the different characteristics of leaves.

Station 2: Hibernation Den Building

  • Provide materials such as blankets, pillows, and cardboard boxes for children to create cozy dens for hibernating animals.
  • Encourage discussions about why animals hibernate and the importance of finding a safe and warm place for hibernation.

Station 3: Hibernation Books Corner

  • Set up a comfortable reading area with books about hibernation and autumn nature.
  • Encourage children to explore the books independently or in small groups.

Station 4: Hibernating Animal Puzzles

  • Provide puzzles featuring hibernating animals such as bears, hedgehogs, or bats.
  • Support children in completing the puzzles and discussing the different animals and their hibernation habits.

Station 5: Autumn Nature Walk

  • Take children on a nature walk to explore the changes in the environment during autumn.
  • Encourage them to observe and collect different items such as acorns, pinecones, or fallen leaves.

Story Time

Once Upon a Time in the Forest

In the beautiful forest, where the leaves were changing colors and falling from trees, lived a group of animal friends. They were excited about the arrival of autumn. The forest was their home, and they loved everything about it.

One sunny day, as the cool breeze blew through the trees, the animals gathered together near a big oak tree. They were curious to know more about the changes happening around them. Mr. Squirrel, the wise old squirrel, decided to share his knowledge with his friends.

“My dear friends, autumn is a special time for us. The days become shorter, and the weather becomes colder. Can you see the leaves changing colors? This is nature’s way of telling us that it’s time for some animals to take a long rest," Mr. Squirrel explained.

The animals were filled with curiosity. “But why do some animals need to rest?” asked Little Bunny, with her big round eyes.

“Well, Little Bunny, some animals hibernate during winter. Hibernation is when animals sleep for a long time to save energy. This helps them survive the cold winter months when there is less food and it’s harder to stay warm,” answered Mr. Squirrel.

The animals listened intently, eager to know more. “Who hibernates, Mr. Squirrel?” asked Little Fox, his fluffy tail wagging.

“Oh, there are many animals that hibernate, Little Fox. Bears, hedgehogs, and even some frogs and snakes. They find a safe and warm place to sleep, such as a cozy burrow, a hollow tree, or even underground,” Mr. Squirrel explained, pointing to different spots in the forest.

The animals wondered where their friends who hibernate might be. They decided to go on an adventure to find them. They tiptoed through the forest, looking high and low for their hibernating friends.

First, they found a bear sleeping soundly in a cave. “Shhh! Let’s not wake him up,” whispered Little Owl, flapping her wings gently.

Next, they found a hedgehog snuggled up in a cozy burrow. “Look how cozy and warm he is!” exclaimed Little Mouse, peeking through the entrance.

As they continued their adventure, they found a frog and a snake hiding under leaves and rocks. “They must be having a deep slumber,” whispered Little Rabbit, careful not to disturb them.

After their adventure, the animal friends returned to the big oak tree. They were amazed by what they had discovered.

“Now we know why some animals hibernate during autumn and winter. It’s their way of staying safe and warm until spring arrives,” said Little Squirrel, munching on an acorn.

The animals were grateful for their newfound knowledge about hibernation. They realized the importance of taking care of each other and their forest home.

As autumn turned into winter, the animal friends continued to play and explore. They were excited for the arrival of spring when their hibernating friends would awaken and join them once again.

And so, the forest remained a magical place where animals lived in harmony and learned from each other.