Mojave Rainforest

In this unit, students will learn about climate differences and weather extremes through exploring two distinct ecosystems. Students will learn about the Mojave Desert and Amazon Rainforest through hands-on STEAM activities, schoolyard weather data collection, and creative expression through movement and art. This unit will help students to describe ecosystem characteristics, learn to compare and contrast data, and develop a global awareness of ecosystems characterized by weather extremes.  

Hands-on Activities: 

• Globe exploration and weather observations
• Visually model the weather of the Mojave Desert and Amazon Rainforest through dance
• Habitat drawings of the Mojave Desert and Amazon Rainforest
• Schoolyard weather data collection and comparison to Amazon Rainforest
• Watercolor paint weather painting
• Weather mobile construction
• Rain stick creation and musical exploration 

Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):

K-PS3-1 •  K-PS3-2 •  K-ESS2-1 •  K-ESS2-2 •  K-ESS3-2 

Mathematics Standards:

MP.2 •  MP.4 •  K.CC •  K.MD.A.2 •  K.CC.A  •  K.MD.A.1 •  K.MD.B.3  

English Language Arts Standards:

W.K.7 •  RI.K.1 •  W.K.1 •  W.K.2 •  SL.K.3A •  SL.K.5  

Visual Arts Standards: 

VA:Cr1.K.1 •  VA:Cr3.K.1