Operation Curiosity and Wonder: Kindergarten to Second Grade
Using our “powers of observation” is the first step in investigating and learning about the natural world. It is also one of the outlined Practices of Science and Engineering that allow us to learn the content knowledge of science and pair it with the critical thinking of defining problems and creating solutions associated with engineering. By combining these two areas of understanding, students learn how the natural world works and our role in it. The purpose of “Operation Curiosity and Wonder” and these activities is to connect learners to the natural world around them through the Minnesota Department of Education’s rigorous academic standards, provide opportunities for equitable non-digital options and social- emotional learning, and deepen learner understanding about how the world around them works using accessible everyday phenomena. Each lesson includes a weekly plan of instruction and an easy to use calendar with short and simple directions to help families facilitate learning.
By participating in “Operation Curiosity and Wonder”, learners will be more connected to the naturally occurring phenomena around them by recording observations, asking questions, writing stories, modeling and drawing their ideas, designing and building devices to help them measure phenomena, creating art that demonstrates their understanding of the natural world. Teachers will be able to use the observations and records of this time to help drive instruction related to data interpretations, patterns, evidence based arguments, the nature of science and engineering, and comparing observations with other learners. Students will become more careful observers, stewards of the natural world, and better communicators of their observations and science concepts.
How it works at home:
Pick a spot to go to each day. This could be in your yard, a park nearby, farmland, forest, or even a window in your home. Bring the materials outlined with you. Spend 10-15 minutes each day doing the activities outlined for the day. If possible, send an adult or responsible party with the learner so they can express their thoughts and ideas and build connections to the people around them during this time. It may be easier for your learner to say or talk through their ideas, and for others, they may wish to express themselves with writing or drawing. Encourage them to show their understanding in the way that best fits their learning! Have fun with this. It is meant to provide an opportunity for learners to make simple observations about the natural world that connects them to their senses and nurtures their sense of curiosity and wonder!
Downloadable Resources: