Snowflakes Themed Learning Unit
Our Snowflake Themed Learning Unit is a perfect resource for young learners. Science, art, math and language are intertwined in a unit around the magical snowflake. The full unit is available now on Etsy.
Science
Young learners will discover how a particle of dust can develop into a unique snowflake. Step by step directions for creating your very own crystal snowflake are also included. Kids will love forming their own snowflake then revisiting them as they have transformed into a crystal filled wonder. These also make a beautiful display of art. Even more, they will be able to extend their understanding of symmetry to build their own 3-D version of a snowflake. The STEM snowflakes allow the creator to use toothpicks and marshmallows to build their own unique snowflake.
Math
Number recognition, counting, one to one correspondence, and symmetry are the main math themes of focus throughout this unit. Number cards with corresponding snowflakes are included. These can be used for counting practice, numeral recognition, identification or as a reference tool. Numbers are also included on smaller snowflakes. These would be easy to add to a sensory bin, to create a matching or memory game, or to use alongside the other resources. Two levels of the snowflake one to one correspondence game are included. Use a dice or a set of our number cards to practice counting. Pair the game boards with manipulatives to practice one to one correspondence, represent a number and count as you race to 10 or 20. Symmetry is introduced on the “Formation of a Snowflake” cards. Snowflake matching cards will allow children to match the two symmetrical sides of a snowflake. Larger half snowflakes are provided for children to complete the snowflake. Use paint, crayons or playdough for different effects. Simply slide them into a page protector to make them reusable.
Letter Recognition and Writing Practice
Capital letters are presented in isolation on snowflakes. These can be used similarly to the number snowflakes. They can be added to a sensory bin or used to create a matching game. Pair with items around the house to identify beginning sounds and match the corresponding letter. This unit also includes letter writing practice. I have personally printed and laminated these cards. They will be a great reusable resource for practicing letter writing using a dry erase marker. Storing them in a pencil pouch with a dry erase marker make them easily transportable for a car ride or any anticipated wait.
Art
Many of the materials used within this unit can be integrated into works of art. The symmetry activities can be presented with multiple medias to create artistic snowflakes. Display the STEM snowflakes and crystal snowflakes as artistic representations of the unit. Step by step directions for creating “Salt Painting Snowflakes” is included as a part of the unit. Take a closer look at snowflakes and there is no denying that they are a beautiful display of nature’s artwork.
We hope you find the Snowflake Learning Unit useful in your work and play and that your young learners find the materials and activities engaging and fun. With these goals in mind, we welcome your input. Please let us know what you enjoy the most and if there is anything else you wish was included. Comment below or reach out to @playbeyondthelines on Instagram!