A guide for using our resources

Children will identify the five senses and explain how animals use them.

Vocabulary: chipmunk, explore, investigate, raccoon, senses

Science Focus: five senses, form and function

Simple, spectacular ideas to boost your lessons.

Paired Text: Mis cinco sentidos by Aliki

  • This simple picture book introduces young children to the five senses in language they can understand.
  • Pair it with the issue to make connections between how animals use their senses and how children use theirs.

Scavenger Hunt: Los cinco sentidos

  • Have a five senses scavenger hunt during circle time! You can call on kids individually or in pairs. Have kids look around and point to things that match these descriptions: 

Encuentra algo que hace mucho ruido.
Encuentra algo que no hace ruido.

Encuentra algo suave.
Encuentra algo áspero.

Encuentra algo oscuro.
Encuentra algo brillante.

Encuentra algo que huele bien.
Encuentra algo apestoso.

  • If applicable, you can also ask kids to find something that tastes sweet or salty.

Vocabulary: investigar

  • When you investigate something, you try to fi nd out more about it. Invite kids to act out the word.
  • Have kids think of something they are curious about and act out how they would investigate it!

Hands-on Activity: Investigación en el patio

Skill: observation and recording

Materials: Investigación en el patio skill sheet, pencils

  • Take an observational walk around the neighborhood or in the outdoor area. On the skill sheet, have children circle the things they see. (No matter where you live, children are guaranteed to see at least a few!)
  • Back inside, have children complete the skill sheet by drawing and labeling one animal they saw. Remind children that animals can be any size—creepy crawlies are critters too!