Bringing the Aurora Borealis to Life: A Preschool Lesson Plan
The Northern Lights aka aurora borealis have been in the news the passed couple of days as they light up the night sky in North America. Preschoolers might be hearing about this or seeing it themselves which no doubt would spark their interested and imagination.
This lesson plan uses engaging picture books and a creative art activity to introduce young minds to this natural wonder and further spark their creativity.
Materials:
Picture books:
"Aurora: A Tale of the Northern Lights" by Mindy Dwyer
"Glow in the Dark: Nature's Light Spectacular" by Katy Flint
"Once upon a Northern Night" by Jean E. Pendziwol, illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault
Black construction paper
Crayons
Cray-Pas (oil pastels)
Lesson Steps:
Story Time Under the Lights: Dim the classroom lights and create a cozy atmosphere for story time. Read aloud the three picture books about the Northern Lights. Encourage children to participate by pointing out colors, shapes,and any interesting details they see in the illustrations.
Northern Lights Discussion: After reading, have a conversation with the children. Ask them questions like:
What did you see in the pictures?
What colors did the Northern Lights have?
Where do you think you can see the Northern Lights?
Let's Create Our Own Lights! Provide each child with a piece of black construction paper and a selection of crayons and Cray-Pas. Explain that they are going to create their own version of the Northern Lights. Encourage them to use bright colors and swirling motions to show the dancing lights in the sky.
Gallery Time: Once everyone has finished their artwork, hang the creations on the wall or display them on a table.Have a "gallery walk" where everyone admires each other's work!
Learning Outcomes:
Through this lesson, preschoolers will:
Develop an understanding of the Northern Lights
Practice their listening skills
Explore color and creativity
Expand their vocabulary related to the night sky
Teacher Tips:
Feel free to adapt the picture books based on your students' interest and attention span.
You can use other art materials like glitter glue or white paint pens to add sparkle to the Northern Lights.
Consider incorporating a short video clip of real Northern Lights to visually connect the books and the art activity.
This lesson plan provides a fun and engaging way to introduce the wonders of the night sky to your preschoolers. With a little creativity, you can ignite their curiosity and spark a lifelong fascination with science and nature.
