first grade earth science experiments

Top 17 Earth Science Experiments

Earth science, the study of our planet and its manifold natural phenomena, offers a world of discovery for curious minds.

We have handpicked a selection of the top 17 Earth science experiments for you to try. Our selection, suitable for a variety of age groups, covers a broad range of topics such as soil analysis, weather patterns, seismic activity, and more.

These hands-on, educational activities will not only deepen your understanding of our dynamic planet but also nurture a keen interest in environmental stewardship.

Get ready to unlock the secrets of our remarkable planet and have a blast along the way!

Earth Science Experiments

1. underwater volcanic eruption.

This experiment highlights the connection between geological processes and the delicate balance of life in our oceans. So, get ready to explore the hidden depths of our planet and witness the powerful spectacle of an underwater volcanic eruption.

Learn more: Underwater Volcanic Eruption

2. Ocean Layers in a Jar

This captivating experiment allows you to recreate and explore the diverse layers of the ocean right in front of your eyes.

By layering different liquids of varying densities, you’ll witness the formation of distinct oceanic zones, such as the surface zone, the twilight zone, and the deep-sea zone. So, why should you try this experiment?

3. Layers of the Earth Experiment

The Layers of the Earth Using Clay experiment offers a unique opportunity to visualize and understand the composition of our planet.

By sculpting the different layers of the Earth, including the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of their properties and interactions.

Learn more: Layers of the Earth Hands-on Experiment

4. Earthquake Epicenter Experiment

The Earthquake Epicenter Experiment offers a unique opportunity to understand the science of seismology and earthquake detection.

By simulating earthquake waves using simple materials, you’ll learn about the principles of wave propagation and how seismic waves travel through the Earth’s layers.

5. Orange Peel Plate Tectonic

The Orange Peel Plate Tectonic experiment offers a unique opportunity to visualize and understand the dynamics of plate tectonics.

By carefully removing the peel from an orange and observing how it fractures and moves, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our Earth’s crust.

Learn more: Orange Peel Plate Tectonic

6. Erosion at the Beach Experiment

This hands-on experiment will show students how wave action can cause erosion at the beach.

Weather-Related Experiments

Have you ever wondered about the forces that shape our everyday weather patterns? These engaging experiments offer a unique opportunity to explore and understand various aspects of weather phenomena.

So, why should you try this section of the earth science experiment? Let’s discover the reasons together.

7. The Greenhouse Effect Experiment

The Greenhouse Effect Experiment offers a unique opportunity to comprehend the mechanisms that contribute to the warming of our planet.

By constructing a miniature greenhouse and observing how it traps heat, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, can impact Earth’s climate.

8. Water Cycle in a Bag

The Water Cycle in a Bag experiment offers a unique opportunity to witness the dynamic nature of the water cycle in action.

By creating a self-contained system within a bag, you’ll simulate the various stages of the water cycle, including evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

Learn more: Water Cycle in A Bag

9. Create Your Own Cloud

Have you ever wondered how clouds form and what makes them float in the sky? This captivating experiment allows you to create your very own cloud right in the palm of your hand. So why should you try this experiment? Let’s discover the reasons together.

10. Rain in a Jar

The Rain in a Jar experiment offers a unique opportunity to learn about the process of rain formation. Through this hands-on activity, you’ll witness how water vapor condenses and transforms into droplets, ultimately leading to rainfall.

11. Instant Snow Experiment

This enchanting experiment allows you to experience the magic of snowfall right before your eyes. So, why should you try this experiment? Let’s uncover the reasons together.

12. Tornado in A Jar

The Tornado in a Jar experiment offers a unique opportunity to explore the science behind tornado formation.

By swirling water and observing the creation of a miniature tornado-like vortex, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the atmospheric conditions and dynamics that give rise to these powerful storms.

Soil Experiments

Through a series of engaging and hands-on experiments, we will unravel the mysteries of soil composition.

Join us as we explore the intricate world of soil through experiments that will ignite your curiosity and deepen your understanding of the vital role soil plays in sustaining life.

13. Build a LEGO Soil Layers

Lego! Join us on this hands-on journey to understand the composition and characteristics of soil layers.

Grab your Lego bricks and let’s start building an amazing understanding of the Earth beneath us!

Learn more: Build a LEGO Soil Layer

14. Testing Soil Experiments

Understanding soil composition and its properties is crucial for agriculture, environmental studies, and even construction.

By conducting these experiments, you will learn how to analyze soil samples, measure pH levels, assess fertility, and determine the best conditions for plant growth.

Learn more: Testing Soil Layers

15. The Science of Erosion

Through these experiments, we will explore the factors that contribute to soil erosion and discover ways to prevent it. Join us on this scientific adventure as we study erosion rates, simulate erosion processes, and learn about the importance of soil conservation.

Learn more: The Science of Erosion

16. Making Groundwater

Through hands-on exploration, you will learn about permeability, porosity, and the essential role of groundwater in our ecosystems. So, grab your tools, roll up your sleeves, and join us in making groundwater as we unravel the fascinating underground world beneath our feet.

17. Make Your Own Water Filter

This hands-on experience will empower you to explore the principles of filtration, observe how different soil components and materials contribute to the purification process, and gain valuable insights into water treatment methods.

Similar Posts:

• 37 Water Science Experiments: Fun & Easy
• 68 Best Chemistry Experiments: Learn About Chemical Reactions
• Top 100 Fine Motor Skills Activities for Toddlers and Preschoolers

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45 Fabulous 1st Grade Science Projects That Little Learners Will Love

Hands-on science is a surefire way to connect with every kid.

First graders will cheer when you announce that they’ll get to do a real, hands-on science experiment! These 1st grade science projects are easy for kids to do, with concepts that will help build their science knowledge for the future.

To make it even easier to find the best science projects for 1st graders, we’ve given each a rating based on difficulty and the materials you’ll need:

Difficulty:

• Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much anytime
• Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
• Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time and/or effort
• Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
• Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
• Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete

Animal and Nature Science Projects for 1st Grade

Weather science experiments for 1st grade.

• More 1st Grade Science Experiments and Projects

Learn about animals, plants, and the Earth in general with these fun science activities for first graders.

Sort animals by features

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Basic

Use a printable or pull out the toy animals and have kids sort them into categories. It’s an early introduction to classification systems.

Learn more: Animal Sort at Fairy Poppins

Build the layers of Earth with Play-Doh

Another creative use for Play-Doh! Teach your students about the different layers of Earth and then have them create the layers using different colors of Play-Doh.

Learn more: Layers of the Earth at Evans Elementary School

Turn a plastic bag into a greenhouse

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Medium

Turn your 1st grade science class into gardeners! Use a damp paper towel in a plastic bag to allow them to see a seed sprouting and growing roots.

Learn more: Greenhouse Bag at Lessons for Little Ones

See how shadows change throughout the day

Start in the morning: Have kids stand in one spot on the playground while a partner traces their shadow with sidewalk chalk . Ask them what they think will happen when they stand in the same spot during the afternoon, then head back outside after lunch to find out.

Learn more: Shadow Experiment at The First Grade Roundup

Discover how plants drink water

Capillary action is the name of the game, and your 1st grade science kiddos will be amazed at the results. Place celery stalks in cups of colored water, and watch as the leaves change color!

Learn more: Capillary Action at Lessons for Little Ones

Build a bird feeder

Set young engineers loose with wood craft sticks , glue, and string to create a bird feeder. Then research the best seeds to fill them with, and hang them outside your classroom window to draw in some feathered friends.

Learn more: DIY Bird Feeder at Mombrite

Observe the birds at your feeder

Once your feeder is in place, teach kids to identify common birds and keep track of their visits. Report their findings to one of Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Citizen Science projects to let kids be part of real-life research. ( Find more bird-watching activities for kids here. )

Experiment with apples and oxidation

Apples turn brown when they’re cut open due to oxidation. Is there any way to prevent that from happening? This experiment aims to find out. ( Explore more apple activities here. )

Learn more: Apples Experiment at Camping Teacher

Use colorful beads to learn about camouflage

Animal camouflage is an important way for prey to protect itself from predators. To learn how effective it can be, place matching colored beads on top of a photo of wildflowers and see how long it takes students to find them all.

Learn more: Camouflage Activity at The First Grader Roundup

Expose a sponge fish to pollution

It’s never too early to start learning about how important it is to protect the Earth. Use sponge “fish” to see how polluted water affects the wildlife living in it.

Learn more: Pollution Experiment at The Owl Teacher

Dig in the dirt with claws

Animal adaptations allow creatures to live in just about every environment on Earth. Learn how claws help some animals survive and thrive by gluing plastic spoons to a glove.

Learn more: Claw Glove at The First Grade Roundup

Observe plant transpiration

Many plants take in more water than they need. What happens to the rest? Wrap a plastic bag around a living tree branch to see transpiration in action.

Learn more:  Leaf Transpiration at Teach Beside Me

Try these science activities to explore wind, rain, and more with your firsties.

Create a weather vane

A weather vane is one of the oldest scientific tools—they help people know which way the wind is blowing. Learn how to make your own with this cool weather experiment.

Learn more: Weathervane Experiment at Rookie Parenting

Grow a rainbow

Kids learn the colors of the rainbow along with chromatography as they watch marker streaks climb up and meet across a wet paper towel. The word might be a big one for little kids to learn, but they’ll love to see it in action!

Learn more: Grow a Rainbow at The Best Ideas for Kids

Make it rain

You need rain to make a rainbow. Simulate a rain cloud in a jar with shaving cream and food coloring, and see how the coloring saturates the “cloud” until it simply must fall.

Learn more: Shaving Cream Clouds at Fun Learning for Kids

Create frost in a can

This is an especially fun experiment during those chilly winter months. First, fill the can with ice and halfway with water. Then have the kids sprinkle salt in the can and cover the top. Finally, shake it and wait about three minutes for the frost to begin to appear.

Learn more: Frost in a Can at Kindergarten Worksheets and Games

Create an avalanche

Learn about the destructive power of an avalanche in a safe way with this experiment. All you need is flour, cornmeal, pebbles, and a plastic tray.

Learn more: Avalanche Experiment at A Dab of Glue Will Do

More 1st Grade Science Projects and Experiments

Looking for more? Try these experiments on a range of subjects to teach first graders all about science.

Give gummy bears a bath

Drop gummy bears into different liquid solutions to see how they change (or don’t) over time. Kids will learn about osmosis, as well as how scientists must be good observers.

Learn more: Gummy Bear Experiment at First Grade Buddies + Co

Play a DIY flute

These homemade flutes are fun to play, but they also help young kids learn about sound. Let them experiment with straw lengths to see what tones they can make.

Learn more: DIY Pan Flute at Buggy and Buddy

Play with Play-Doh to learn why we have bones

Ask kids to build a person from Play-Doh and see if it will stand on its own. Then show them how adding drinking straws gives it structure and strength, and explain that bones do the same for us! ( Get more clever ways to use Play-Doh in the classroom here. )

Learn more: Play-Doh Bones at Keeping My Kiddo Busy

Find out which objects magnets attract

Equip students with magnets and send them out to explore and discover which objects the magnet will stick to and which won’t. Record their findings on the free printable worksheet at the link.

Learn more: Magnet Science Experiments at Fairy Poppins

Grow a crystal garden

First grade science students might not grasp the concept of supersaturated solutions, but they’ll still love a good crystal project! Grab some magnifying glasses and let them examine the crystals up close (try not to touch, as they’re very fragile) to see the cool geometric structures.

Learn more: Crystal Garden at Babble Dabble Do

Build a jelly bean structure

If you’re doing this STEM project in the spring, jelly beans make the perfect base. If you can’t get a hold of jelly beans, try substituting tiny marshmallows in their place. Make sure to have some extras on hand since little hands are likely to snack as they build.

Learn more: Jellybean STEM Challenge at The STEM Laboratory

Experiment with marshmallow Peeps

Peeps used to just be an Easter treat, but these days you can find them in different shapes throughout much of the year. Use them to practice making predictions and recording observations with this sweet experiment.

Learn more: Easter Peeps Science Experiment at Gift of Curiosity

Spark excitement with static electricity

No doubt your 1st grade science students have already encountered static electricity by rubbing a balloon on their hair. This experiment takes things a step further, letting kids explore which objects an electrically charged balloon can pick up and which it can’t.

Learn more: Static Electricity Balloons at Kids Activities Blog

Melt crayons to explore solids and liquids

Dig out some old crayons and use them for this easy experiment that demonstrates the difference between liquids and solids. When you’re done, you’ll have a cool piece of art to display. ( Discover more uses for broken crayons here. )

Learn more: Melting Crayons at First Grade Circle

Talk through a paper cup phone

This classic experiment will help your 1st grade science class understand that sound travels in waves, through the air, and across other objects. Watching their faces light up when they hear whispers in their cups will make your day!

Learn more: Paper Cup Phone at There’s Just One Mommy

Blow a bubble snake

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

You’ll need to plan this experiment for a day with nice weather since it is best suited to outdoors. You will need an empty water bottle, a washcloth, a rubber band, a small bowl or plate, food coloring, scissors or box cutters, distilled water, dish soap, and Karo syrup or glycerin. There’s a lot of prep, but the end result is definitely worth it!

Learn more: Bubble Snakes at Hand 2 Mind

Learn why we have night and day

The Earth’s daily rotation gives us days and nights. This simple demo helps kids understand that. They draw a day scene and a night scene on a paper plate, then cover it with half of another plate that can be moved. This is an art project and 1st grade science experiment all rolled into one.

Learn more: Night and Day Play at Universe Awareness

Float food coloring on milk

Learn about surface tension by dropping food coloring onto different types of milk (whole, skim, cream, etc.). Then use dish soap to break down the fats and surface tension, and watch the colors dance!

Learn more: Surface Tension Milk at STEAMsational

Drop water onto a penny

Continue your exploration of surface tension by adding water drop-by-drop to a penny. The surface tension will allow you to add far more water than you might think.

Will it sink or swim?

Ask students to predict whether a variety of items will sink or float in water. Then test each object to check their hypotheses.

Blow up a balloon using yeast

This is similar to the classic lemon juice and baking soda experiment many kids do at some point. But this one is better for younger kids since you don’t have to worry about them splashing the juice in their eyes. Kids will be just as astonished at the results as the yeast eats the sugar and produces carbon dioxide gas!

Learn more: Yeast Balloon Experiment at The STEM Laboratory

Push on air

Teach your students about air compression and air pressure using a barrel, plunger, syringe, and flexible tube. Kids will definitely get a kick out of air wrestling and popping off their plungers using air pressure.

Learn more: Air Pressure Experiment at First Grade Adventurers

Test your reaction time

Do your students have lightning-quick reflexes? Find out with this easy experiment. One student holds a ruler vertically, while another places their hand just beneath and waits. When the first student drops the ruler, the second catches it as quickly as possible, seeing how many inches passed through their fingers first.

Learn more: Reaction Time Experiment at Science Sparks

Assemble a DIY lava lamp

Your firsties are too young to remember the lava lamp craze, but this science project will give them a taste of it as they learn about liquid density.

Learn more: Salt Volcano Lava Lamp at What Do We Do All Day?

Learn the scientific method with candy

See the scientific method in action as kids hypothesize what will happen to various types of candy in the hot sun. Observe, record, and analyze your results to see if their predictions were correct.

Learn more: Candy Scientific Method Activity at Playdough to Plato

Look into mirrors to discover symmetry

By now, 1st grade science students may have noticed that mirrors reflect objects backward. Ask them to write the alphabet in capital letters, then hold it up to the mirror. Which letters are the same when they’re reflected? Use those findings to talk about symmetry.

Learn more: Mirror Symmetry at Buggy and Buddy

Create a super-simple circuit

This is the perfect way to introduce the concept of electricity to young students since the materials and steps are minimal. You will need a D battery, tinfoil, electrical tape, and a light bulb from a flashlight.

Learn more: Super-Simple Circuit at What Do We Do All Day?

“Bend” a pencil using light refraction

Tell your students you’re going to bend a pencil without touching it. Drop it into a glass of water and have them look at it from the side. Light refraction makes it appear to be in two pieces!

Learn more: Bending Pencil Experiment at STEAMsational

Roll marbles to explore momentum

Momentum is “mass in motion,” but what does that really mean? Find out by rolling marbles of different sizes down rulers placed at various slopes.

Learn more: Momentum Experiments at Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls

Dunk eggs to understand dental health

Grown-ups are always telling kids sugary drinks are bad for their teeth, so try this experiment to put your money where your mouth is! Eggshells are a good substitute for teeth since they’re both made of calcium. Leave eggs in different kinds of beverages to see which ones do the most damage to the shells.

Learn more: Dental Health Eggs at First Grade Funtastic

Melt ice cubes to make new colors

Color mixing is one of those incredibly cool activities that kids will want to try again and again. Make ice cubes using primary colors, then let them melt together to see what new colors you can create.

Learn more: Color Mixing at Gift of Curiosity

Fly a paper airplane

Kid absolutely love creating and flying paper airplanes, so this experiment is sure to be a hit. Have your students create different-style planes and then experiment with thrust and lift to see which fly the farthest, highest, etc.

Weigh items with a homemade balance scale

Make a simple balance scale with a coat hanger, yarn, and some plastic cups. Have students gather items from around the classroom, make predictions about which will be heavier, then test their hypothesis.

Learn more: DIY Balance Scale at WikiHow

If you love 1st grade science, be sure to check out these 25 First Grade STEM Challenges .

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First Grade Earth & Space Science Activities

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20 Earth Science Activity Ideas: Experiments, Observation, DIYs, And Discussion

March 22, 2024 //  by  Laura Spry

Providing quality hands-on experiments for kids will develop their earth science and hopefully spark curiosity in learning more about the natural world. Many kids struggle with traditional book-based learning and thrive when working through experiments. These engaging activities will give your hands-on learners a chance to shine! Let’s take a look at 20 exciting earth science activities for kids. 

1. Tornado in a Bottle

For this, you will need two 2-liter bottles, duct tape, water, and dish soap. Fill one of the bottles with water until it’s 3/4 full and add a squirt of dish soap. Take the empty bottle and place it on top- opening to opening. Secure with tape. Moving the water between the two creates a cool tornado effect!

Learn More: Team Cartwright

2. Baking Soda Science 

For this science experiment, you will need, mini cups, a round tray, an eyedropper, baking soda, blue and green food coloring, and vinegar. Place your mini cups on your round tray, and fill each with a spoonful of baking soda and a drop of food coloring. Add vinegar, and watch what happens!

Learn More: Little Bins for Little Hands

3. Egg Shell Gardens

Save some eggshells and rinse them before use. Place moistened soil and a couple of seeds in each eggshell and place them in a sunny window. Finely mist the seeds each day until they sprout. Kids can keep a record of the changes they see each day.

Learn More: Garden Betty

4. Water Cycle in a Bag

For this fun water cycle experiment you will need a ziplock bag, a sharpie, water, and food coloring. Draw a simple water cycle on the bag and leave it in a warm window. Come back in a couple of hours and see what has happened!

Learn More: Little People Thinking Big

5. Build a Desert Biome

Teach basic earth science with this super fun activity that requires a sealable jar, sand, dirt, sticks, rocks, desert plants, and water. Pour a mixture of dirt and sand into the jar. Kids can then arrange their rocks and sticks on top of this as they wish. Seal and place in a sunny window. After a couple of days, you should notice condensation appear; this means your biome is working!

Learn More: STEAMsational

6. Salt Dough Islands

Provide each student with a blue paper plate, some salt dough, and air-drying clay. They can mix the dough and clay together to create land on their earth plate. Leave these to dry overnight then and then have learners paint them using acrylic paint.  

Learn More: Around the Kampfire

7. Ocean Oil Spill

This activity teaches kids how oil spills happen and how hard they are to clean up. Fill a tub with water and blue food coloring. Add boats and marine animal toys. Let the kids play with this for a while before adding a small amount of olive oil. Discuss how you are going to clean up the ocean;  providing a variety of methods, such as paper towels, sponges, etc. 

Learn More: One Time Through

8. Cloud in a Jar

Kids will be amazed by this! You will need a glass jar with a lid, hot water, hairspray, and ice cubes. Start by adding 1/3 cup of boiling water to the jar, spray hairspray into the jar, and quickly seal the lid with the ice on top. Watch as a cloud forms in the jar!

Learn More: No Time for Flashcards

9. Comparing Soil Experiment

Ask students which type of soil they think will be best for planting. Students can test this by putting a small amount of 3 different soil types in a coffee filter secured onto plastic cups with a rubber band. When water is added, they will record their observations and draw a conclusion. 

Learn More: Sarah Snippets

10. Ocean Layers Activity

This activity introduces students to the 3 main layers of the ocean; surface ocean, deep ocean, and seafloor sediments. Students must weigh out the different ingredients and record what happens when these are placed together in the glass jar.

Learn More: From Engineer to SAHM

11. Volcano Activity

Making a volcano is a classic science experiment. You will need, play dough, baking soda, vinegar, and red food coloring. Place a cup in the center of a tray and build your volcano shape around this with the play. Then, take it outside and add baking soda to the crater before adding vinegar and waiting for an eruption. 

Learn More: Happy Brown House

12. Core Sampling Activity

This is a great hands-on geology experiment to teach earth science concepts. Discuss the different layers of the Earth. Assign a different color play dough to each layer and have kids build a section of the earth’s layers. Provide a straw for kids to dip into the earth to retrieve a sample.

Learn More: Homeschool-Rebecca Reid

13. Solar Energy Balloon

Learners can paint one plastic bottle white and one black. Once dry, they can attach a balloon to each neck of the bottle and place them in the sun. Kids will notice that the air in the black balloon heats up faster and inflates the balloon faster. 

Learn More: E is for Explore

14. Bird Feeder Science Craft

Students can plan their bird feeder and discuss what materials will work well and be long-lasting. Here, they used popsicle sticks to create a tray effect and used pipe cleaners for it to hang from.

Learn More: Steam Powered Family

15. Refraction of Light Activity

Discuss how different colors are refracted by different angles due to their different wavelengths. So, when light is refracted it disperses into different colors. Demonstrate this by placing a glass prism in direct sunlight to produce a rainbow effect.

Learn More: Rookie Parenting

16. Earth Layers Activity

This 3D earth layers activity helps kids understand the structure of the Earth. You will need 5 colors of modeling clay and some dental floss. Learners can form a ball for the core, and add another layer for the inner core, outer core, and so on. Once this is complete, they’ll use the dental floss to cut a layer out to reveal all the other layers.

Learn More: The Chaos and the Clutter

17. Earth Skittles Experiment

Kids love this colorful activity! Have them arrange blue and green skittles on a white plate in a rough Earth-colored pattern. When warm water is added, kids will see the colors melt away; creating this fun blending effect!

Learn More: Crafty Morning

18. Coffee Filter Earth

For this activity, you will need coffee filters, blue and green markers, and a spray bottle filled with water. Remind kids how much water there is on Earth so a large amount of this will need to be colored blue. Once they have colored their Earth, they can spray it with water and watch all the colors blend.

Learn More: About a Mom

19. Rising Water Experiment

Place a candle in the middle of a bowl and secure it with play dough. Next, learners can add a mixture of food coloring and water to a depth of about 1cm and light the candle. Ask kids to predict what happens next! Place a mason jar over the candle and watch as the water rises when the candle goes out. 

Learn More: Mombrite

20. Banana Water Decomposition Experiment

Get your students to place two different food scraps into bottles and fill them with water; placing an uninflated balloon over the bottlenecks. One bottle should be a control bottle with water only. Learners can place them in the sun and observe what occurs after 7-10 days. The gas created during decomposition should have inflated the balloons. 

Learn More: Raising Global Kidizens

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35 Science Projects For 1st Graders

Curious kids turn into junior scientists with these fun and simple  science projects for 1st graders. Science doesn’t need to be difficult or complicated! Here’s our list of the best first grade science activities that are totally doable and use simple supplies for home or in the classroom.

What Do First Graders Do In Science?

At this stage, the emphasis is on cultivating curiosity, honing observation skills, and fostering a love for discovery. The first grade science curriculum typically covers a diverse range of topics, encouraging students to engage in hands-on activities that make learning both immersive and enjoyable.

First Grade Science Topics Include:

• Living and Non-Living Things: Students learn to differentiate between living organisms (plants and animals) and non-living things (objects and materials). They explore the characteristics and behaviors that define living things.
• Plants : First graders discover the life cycle of plants, from seed germination to growth and reproduction. They learn about the role of sunlight, water, and nutrients in plant development.
• Animals: Students explore various animal species, their habitats, and basic characteristics. They learn about different types of animals, their body parts, and how they adapt to their environments.
• Weather and Seasons : Children are introduced to basic weather patterns and the four seasons. They learn about the different types of weather conditions and how they change throughout the year.
• Basic Earth Science : First graders might learn about the Earth’s landforms (mountains, valleys, etc.) and bodies of water (rivers, lakes, oceans). They also explore concepts like day and night and the rotation of the Earth.
• Matter and Materials : Students are introduced to different types of materials (solid, liquid, gas) and their basic properties. They learn to describe and compare materials based on attributes like color, texture, and size.
• Energy and Forces : Young learners are introduced to the concept of energy and different forms of energy like light and sound. They might explore simple machines and basic forces like pushing and pulling.
• Light and Shadows : First graders might learn about sources of light, how light travels, and how shadows are formed. They observe and experiment with light to understand its properties.

Get your FREE Science Activities Calendar

35 Awesome Science Projects for First Graders

Color Mixing

Use watercolors to learn how mixing primary colors creates different colors.

Sink or Float Experiment

Grab some everyday objects and a container of water to explore the concept of density and why some objects sink while others float.

Egg In Salt Water

Will an egg float or sink in salt water? Ask lots of questions and get kids thinking with this salt water density experiment.

Seed Germination

Use a seed jar to observe how plants grow from seeds and what they need to survive.

Shadow Puppets

Make these fun printable shadow puppets to explore how light interacts with objects and creates shadows.

Edible Moon Phases

Use oreo cookies to create the phases of the moon to explore how the moon changes as it moves around the earth.

Make Rainbows

Use a simple glass prism, and other ways to see how light is made up of different colors and can be separated into a rainbow.

Dissolving Candy

Add some hard candy to different liquids to explore how substances dissolve in some liquids but not others.

What Absorbs Water

Explore what materials absorb water and what materials do not absorb water. Use items you already have on hand for this easy science project.

Grow Borax Crystals

Learn about how crystals are formed and can take different shapes. You can grow crystals from borax , salt and sugar .

Make a Volcano Eruption

Kids will love this erupting chemical reaction with just two simple ingredients, baking soda and vinegar. Also try one of these fun variations with LEGO , a water bottle , apple and even a pumpkin .

Inflating Balloon

Observe gas production during a chemical reaction with this fun balloon science experiment. You can also set it up with soda and salt to observe a physical reaction.

What’s Magnetic and What’s Not

Explore how magnets attract and repel each other.

Solid, Liquid, Gas Experiment

Observe how water can change from a solid to liquid and back.

Rain Cloud In A Jar

Where does rain come from? How do clouds make rain? Explore weather science with this rain cloud in a jar activity. Also, try this shaving cream rain cloud model.

Balloon Rocket

What can you do with a balloon and a straw? Build a balloon rocket, of course and explore Newton’s Laws of Motion.

Make a Windmill

Explore the concept of harnessing wind as a energy source with a simple to make windmill or wind turbine.

Bubble Science

Bubbles are just fun to play with! Learn how bubbles form and why they’re round with these bubble activities. It’s all to do with surface tension.

Is it a liquid or is it a solid? Fun hands-on science and play with our easy 2 ingredient oobleck recipe.

Grow Flowers

Watching flowers grow is an amazing science lesson for kids. Check out our list of the best seeds for kids to pick up and plant, and grow quickly.

Coffee Filter Flowers

Coffee filter flowers are a colorful STEAM activity for kids to explore solubility. Color a coffee filter with markers and spray with water for a fun effect.

This magic milk experiment is fun for kids to watch and makes for great hands-on learning. The perfect science activity as you already have all the items for it in your kitchen.

Oil and Water

Find out why oil and water don’t mix with this simple to set up science project. It is all due to differences in density.

Lemon Battery

Grab some lemons and a few other supplies, and find out how you can make lemons into lemon electricity!

Salt Painting

Combine science and art to learn about absorption with this easy salt painting activity.

Add a chemical reaction to an oil and water experiment to create a homemade lava lamp.

Rainbow in a Jar

Create liquids with different densities that you can make a colorful layered liquid tower with.

Make Air Foils

Explore the effect air resistance has on a falling object with these to make paper air foils.

Paper Airplane Launcher

Learn how design affects the flight of paper airplanes with a paper plane launcher.

Water Xylophone

Use different amounts of water in glass jars to learn about how vibrations create sound waves.

Egg in Vinegar

What happens to an egg when it is left in vinegar for a few days? Observe how an acid reacts with and dissolves a shell.

Make A Sundial

This paper sundial is an easy way to understand how shadows change over time.

Electric Cornstarch

All you need is oil and water to explore static electricity with a balloon.

Toy Car Friction

Use a toy car and different types of materials to explore how friction affects the movement of an object.

Water Refraction

Demonstrate how refraction of light occurs in water with this simple water refraction experiment.

Melting Crayons

Learn how heat causes crayons to melt. It’s a great example of a physical change.

Turn It Into A Science Fair Project

Science projects are an excellent tool for older kiddos to show what they know about science! Plus, they can be used in all sorts of environments including classrooms, homeschool, and groups.

OUR TOP TIP: Pick a project that your child has expressed interest in. Engaging your child in this process will be much easier when they are the driving force behind it !

Kids can take everything they have learned about using the scientific method , stating a hypothesis, choosing variables , making observations and analyzing and presenting data.

Want to turn one of these experiments into an awesome science fair project? Check out these helpful resources.

• Science Project Tips From A Teacher
• Science Fair Board Ideas
• Easy Science Fair Projects

Free Printable Science Journal Worksheets

Create a science notebook with these easy-to-use science worksheets to accompany any experiment. Grab your free science process journal pack !

Using The Scientific Method

The scientific method is a process or method of research. A problem is identified, information about the problem is gathered, a hypothesis or question is formulated from the information, and the hypothesis is tested with an experiment to prove or disprove its validity.

Sounds heavy… What in the world does that mean?!? It means you don’t need to try and solve the world’s biggest science questions! The scientific method is all about studying and learning things right around you.

As children develop practices that involve creating, gathering data evaluating, analyzing, and communicating, they can apply these critical thinking skills to any situation.

LEARN MORE HERE: Using The Scientific Method with Kids

Note: The use of the best Science and Engineering Practices is also relevant to the topic of using the scientific method. Read more here and see if it fits your science planning needs.

Helpful Science Resources

Here are a few resources that will help you introduce science more effectively to your kiddos or students. Then you can feel confident yourself when presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.

• Best Science Practices (as it relates to the scientific method)
• Science Vocabulary
• 8 Science Books for Kids
• All About Scientists
• Science Supplies List
• Science Tools for Kids
• Join us in the Club

Science Experiments By Age Group

We’ve put together a few separate resources for different age groups, but remember that many experiments will cross over and can be re-tried at several different age levels. Younger kiddos can enjoy the simplicity and hands-on fun. At the same time, you can talk back and forth about what is happening.

• Science for Toddlers
• Science for Preschoolers
• Science for Kindergarten
• Elementary Science by Season
• Science for 1st Grade
• Science for 2nd Grade
• Science for 3rd Grade
• Science for 4th Grade
• Science for 5th Grade
• Science for 6th Grade
• Science for Middle School

Printable Science Projects Pack

If you’re looking to grab all of our printable science projects in one convenient place plus exclusive worksheets and bonuses like a STEAM Project pack, our Science Project Pack is what you need! Over 300+ Pages!

• 90+ classic science activities  with journal pages, supply lists, set up and process, and science information.  NEW! Activity-specific observation pages!
• Best science practices posters  and our original science method process folders for extra alternatives!
• Be a Collector activities pack  introduces kids to the world of making collections through the eyes of a scientist. What will they collect first?
• Know the Words Science vocabulary pack  includes flashcards, crosswords, and word searches that illuminate keywords in the experiments!
• My science journal writing prompts  explore what it means to be a scientist!!
• Bonus STEAM Project Pack:  Art meets science with doable projects!
• Bonus Quick Grab Packs for Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics

Subscribe to receive a free 5-Day STEM Challenge Guide

~ projects to try now ~.

• Next Generation Science Standards
• Grade 1 Science: Proposed by NGSS

Grade 1 - 1-ESS1 Earth’s Place in the Universe

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Disciplinary Core Ideas

ESS1.A: The Universe and its Stars • Patterns of the motion of the sun, moon, and stars in the sky can be observed, described, and predicted. (1-ESS1-1)

ESS1.B: Earth and the Solar System • Seasonal patterns of sunrise and sunset can be observed, described, and predicted. (1-ESS1-2)

Performance Expectations Students who demonstrate understanding can: 1-ESS1-1. Use observations of the sun, moon, and stars to describe patterns that can be predicted.  [Clarification Statement: Examples of patterns could include that the sun and moon appear to rise in one part of the sky, move across the sky, and set; and stars other than our sun are visible at night but not during the day.] [Assessment Boundary: Assessment of star patterns is limited to stars being seen at night and not during the day.]

1-ESS1-2. Make observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.  [Clarification Statement: Emphasis is on relative comparisons of the amount of daylight in the winter to the amount in the spring or fall.] [Assessment Boundary: Assessment is limited to relative amounts of daylight, not quantifying the hours or time of daylight.]

Use the Template and Resource Links to Fulfill NGSS

• Understand that patterns of the motion of the sun, moon, and stars in the sky can be observed, described, and predicted.
• Understand that seasonal patterns of sunrise and sunset can be observed, described, and predicted.

Essential Questions:

• What are the patterns of the motion of the sun, moon, and stars in the sky that we observe, describe, and predict ?
• What are the s easonal patterns of sunrise and sunset can be observed, described, and predicted

NGSS Note: Think, question, entertain ideas.

ll. Introductory Activities to Assess Prior Knowledge

A. Simple Activities - that assess students’ understanding of Earth events that happen very quickly and others that occur very slowly.

B. Brainstorming Session Question: What are some of the things students notice about when the sun rises and sets throughout the year ? 1. Ask students to think about winter nights and summer nights and explain how they might seem different . Cue them with thoughts of when it gets dark at Thanksgiving as opposed to the fourth of July, when the moon comes up, if it's light in the mornings when they get up in the winter versus over summer break, etc. 2 . Discuss

A. Read about moon patterns and seasonal changes. Phases of the Moon Explained

Changing Seasons (Elementary)

Examples of Models (depicts the concept expressed in the reading):

Ask students to look at the model of the Phases of the Moon . This is not an easy concept for most adults to understand, so for 1st grade students, looking at the model and coloring a model of their own, may be a good start. The same with the Earth's Revolution Around the Sun, which is another complex concept.

Let younger students creat their own Moon Phase Model with a coloring page:

Moon Phases Coloring

For more advanced students, try these activities:

Name the Phase of the Moon

Phases of the Moon - Cut & Paste & Name

Phases of the Moon - Draw

Phases of the Moon - Matching

Phases of the Moon - Order, Cut & Paste

Vl. Next Generation of Science Standards (NGSS) - Grade 1

Science and Engineering Practices

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations Planning and carrying out investigations to answer questions or test solutions to problems in K–2 builds on prior experiences and progresses to simple investigations, based on fair tests, which provide data to support explanations or design solutions. •Make observations (firsthand or from media) to collect data that can be used to make comparisons. (1-ESS1-2)

Analyzing and Interpreting Data Analyzing data in K–2 builds on prior experiences and progresses to collecting, recording, and sharing observations. • Use observations (firsthand or from media) to describe patterns in the natural world in order to answer scientific questions. (1-ESS1-1)

Crosscutting Concepts

Patterns • Patterns in the natural world can be observed, used to describe phenomena, and used as evidence. (1-ESS1-1),(1-ESS1-2)

Connections to Nature of Science

Scientific Knowledge Assumes an Order and Consistency in Natural Systems •  Science assumes natural events happen today as they happened in the past. (1-ESS1-1) • Many events are repeated. (1-ESS1-1)

Performance Expectations

Students who demonstrate understanding can:

1-ESS1-1. Use observations of the sun, moon, and stars to describe patterns that can be predicted.  [Clarification Statement: Examples of patterns could include that the sun and moon appear to rise in one part of the sky, move across the sky, and set; and stars other than our sun are visible at night but not during the day.] [Assessment Boundary: Assessment of star patterns is limited to stars being seen at night and not during the day.]

Common Core State Standards Connections

ELA/Literacy W.1.7 Participate in shared research and writing projects (e.g., explore a number of “how-to” books on a given topic and use them to write a sequence of instructions). (1-ESS1-1),(1-ESS1-2) W.1.8 With guidance and support from adults, recall information from experiences or gather information from provided sources to answer a question. (1-ESS1-1),(1-ESS1-2)

Mathematics MP.2 Reason abstractly and quantitatively. (1-ESS1-2) MP.4 Model with mathematics. (1-ESS1-2) MP.5 Use appropriate tools strategically. (1-ESS1-2) 1.OA.A.1 Use addition and subtraction within 20 to solve word problems involving situations of adding to, taking from, putting together, taking apart, and comparing, with unknowns in all positions, e.g., by using objects, drawings, and equations to represent the problem. (1-ESS1-2) 1.MD.C.4 Organize, represent, and interpret data with up to three categories; ask and answer questions about the total number of data points, how many in each category, and how many more or less are in one category than in another. (1-ESS1-2)

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Citing Research References

When you research information you must cite the reference. Citing for websites is different from citing from books, magazines and periodicals. The style of citing shown here is from the MLA Style Citations (Modern Language Association).

When citing a WEBSITE the general format is as follows. Author Last Name, First Name(s). "Title: Subtitle of Part of Web Page, if appropriate." Title: Subtitle: Section of Page if appropriate. Sponsoring/Publishing Agency, If Given. Additional significant descriptive information. Date of Electronic Publication or other Date, such as Last Updated. Day Month Year of access < URL >.

Here is an example of citing this page:

Amsel, Sheri. "Grade 1 - 1-ESS1 Earth’s Place in the Universe" Exploring Nature Educational Resource ©2005-2024. March 25, 2024 < http://www.exploringnature.org/db/view/Grade-1-1-ESS1-Earthrsquos-Place-in-the-Universe >

Exploringnature.org has more than 2,000 illustrated animals. Read about them, color them, label them, learn to draw them.

20+ Hands-on Ways to Teach Earth Science

• November 8, 2017
• Geography , Homeschool , Late Elementary , Science , STEM

Try this  edible soil layers activity , involving pudding, Oreos, and more delicious treats! Start with bedrock, and end with the plants that we can see growing!

Use flashcards that teach hands-on examples.

Grab a giant cookie and  create an island ! Along the way, learn about the different types of landforms and label each part.

Make fold mountains with towels.

Flipbooks are a great way to help upper elementary students visualize terms. Ginger Snaps has a perfect free template to help get you started. Plus, students can color them in!

Create a 3D salt dough maps.

One mom used kinetic sand and glass gems  to explore water in this montessori inspired activity.

Create a crystal geode.

Play dough is a simple and frugal way to teach the layers of the earth !

Not wanting something super messy? Try it with LEGOs.

Using a slinky , discover the effects of lateral earthquake motion.

Create your own rock scratch test.

I was recently searching up plate tectonics for a class, and came across a lesson – with graham crackers! Learn about the different boundaries and how the earth’s crust works. Teaching plate tectonics with graham crackers simplifies it so much and also makes for a fun treat to eat afterward. ( here’s another tutorial with the same concept)

Create an interactive notebook.

With a regular notebook, turn it into an interactive notebook with these rock cycle materials .

Use Starburst to create an edible rock cycle.

Teach soil layers, the edible way ! You can mix and match with what you have on hand or what’s easiest for you, but this first-grade teacher’s experiment is simple, memorable, and fun!

Test rocks in your own backyard.

More Hands-on Ways to Teach Science

25+ Edible Science Experiments

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1st Grade Earth Science Websites

Websites for 1st grade earth science earth’s place in the universe.

These websites support the NGSS standards at this grade level and are labeled by the type of website that it is (Student or Teacher Background, Student Online Activities, Teacher Activities, Student or Teacher Videos).

Back to our Grade Level Programs & Websites Page

Community Resources for Science 1611 San Pablo Avenue, Suite 10 B Berkeley, CA 94702

Phone: (510) 527-5212 Fax: (510) 527-5216 Email: [email protected] EIN: 94-3262587

Privacy Statement Join Our Team

The mission of CRS is to empower teachers and STEM professionals serving schools in historically marginalized communities to activate TK-8 students’ curiosity about the world, foster critical thinking, and inspire children to imagine future career pathways. We envision a community of educators, scientists, families and partners working together to build school cultures that equip all children to explore the world around them and build the skills needed to become innovators, problem solvers, environmental stewards, life-long learners and leaders. CRS leads a dynamic network, fostering relationships and collaborations that leverage expertise and resources to transform science teaching and learning toward greater equity, opportunity, and success for all students.

Our goal is simple: help teachers give students more opportunities to “do science” – to ask questions, test ideas, get their hands on real science activities. We need to inspire the next generation of thinkers, makers, problem solvers, and leaders!

First Grade Science Experiments: Easy and Engaging Ideas for Young Learners

Engaging young minds in science at an early age fosters curiosity and a love for exploration .

First grade science experiments are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, allowing 1st graders to observe and understand the world around them through hands-on activities.

They offer an introduction to various scientific concepts, from the basics of matter and biology to the principles of light and sound. Furthermore, these experiments serve as excellent preparation for science fair projects, laying the foundation for future scientific learning and discovery.

Simple and safe, first grade science projects are specifically tailored to the developmental stage and interests of young learners. They typically involve common household materials and can often be completed with minimal adult supervision. The goal is to make learning about the environment, physical science, and chemistry not just informative but also exciting. These projects can culminate in science fairs where students proudly present their findings, integrating their newfound knowledge with practical application and critical thinking skills.

Key Takeaways

• First grade science experiments are foundational activities that develop critical thinking and scientific inquiry in young learners.
• These projects are age-appropriate, using simple materials to teach 1st graders about various scientific principles.
• Science fairs provide an opportunity for students to showcase their understanding and application of scientific concepts explored through their experiments.

Getting Started with Science Experiments

Embarking on the journey of science experiments is an exciting way for first graders to discover the world around them. They’ll learn to ask questions, observe outcomes, and understand the cause and effect relationship through hands-on activities.

Understanding the Scientific Method

The scientific method provides a systematic approach for young learners to investigate the natural world. It typically entails five steps: asking a question , making a hypothesis , conducting an experiment , observing and recording results , and drawing conclusions . Incorporating the variables of the experiment, which are factors that can be changed, such as the amount of light or water, is essential for students to understand their impact on the experiment’s outcome.

Safety Tips and Preparation

Safety is paramount when conducting science experiments. Educators and parents should prepare by reviewing safety guidelines such as wearing protective gear and identifying any possible hazards. It’s crucial to explain to first graders the importance of not tasting or touching chemicals and to always have an adult present during experiments to maintain a safe learning environment.

The Role of Supervision

Supervision ensures that children are guided through the scientific method and adhere to safety protocols. An adult supervisor serves as a facilitator of learning, helping to keep the experiment focused and educational. They ensure that the young scientists make observations and record their findings accurately, fostering a safe and supportive environment for inquiry.

Materials and Equipment

Before beginning an experiment, it’s important to gather all required materials and equipment . For simple first grade experiments, items often include common household objects such as measuring cups, water, paper, and crayons. For specific science activities, such as weather experiments , materials might include items like balloons or straws to demonstrate principles like air pressure. Preparing all materials in advance ensures the experiment can be conducted smoothly.

Exploring the Basics of Matter

Introducing first graders to the fundamental properties of matter is a pivotal part of their science education. This exploration helps them understand how various materials interact with each other and with their environment.

States of Matter: Solid, Liquid, and Gas

Matter exists in three primary states: solid, liquid, and gas. A solid has a fixed shape and volume, such as a block of wood. Liquids have a set volume but change shape based on the container they are in, like water in a glass. Gases , such as air, have neither a fixed shape nor volume, and they will expand to fill any available space.

• Solid : Fixed shape and volume.
• Liquid : Set volume, shape shifts to container.
• Gas : No fixed shape or volume, fills space.

Density and Buoyancy

Density is a property that describes how much mass is contained within a given volume. It is a key factor that determines whether an object will sink or float in a liquid. An object denser than the liquid will sink, whereas one with lower density will float. For example, a rock will sink in water because it is denser than the water, while a piece of wood floats due to its lower density.

• Sink : Object denser than the liquid.
• Float : Object less dense than the liquid.

Chemical Reactions in Everyday Life

A chemical reaction involves the transformation of substances into one or more different substances. These reactions are observable in everyday life and can be a fascinating discovery for first graders. Mixing baking soda and vinegar demonstrates a simple reaction where these two substances react to form gas bubbles, an example of a solid and liquid reacting to produce a gas.

• Chemical reaction : Transformation leading to new substances.
• Example: Baking soda + Vinegar = Gas bubbles.

Nature and Biology Projects

Introducing young learners to the complexities of the natural world through hands-on experiments is an effective method for engaging their curiosity. These projects explore the life cycles of plants and animals, the structure of ecosystems, and the fascinating behaviors of insects.

Plant Life: From Seed to Flower

First grade students can witness the miracle of germination by planting seeds in clear plastic cups to observe root and shoot development. Through this activity, they learn the basics of photosynthesis and the life cycle of plants as they care for their seedlings and watch them grow into blooming flowers.

Exploring the Animal Kingdom

Children are often inherently interested in animals, making this an exciting area for study. Exploratory projects may include constructing animal habitat dioramas or observing wildlife to understand the concept of camouflage and other survival strategies. Encountering the diversity of the animal kingdom helps students appreciate the multitude of life forms that share the planet.

The Fascinating World of Insects

The insect world offers a microcosm of learning opportunities. Simple activities like catching and examining insects, then documenting their characteristics, can illustrate concepts such as insect life cycles or the importance of insects in the ecosystem. Projects can range from studying the behavior of ants to creating butterfly gardens that facilitate the study of these pollinators.

Understanding Ecosystems and Habitats

In this subsection, students could construct model ecosystems in bottles or examine different types of habitats within their local area. The objective here is to understand the interconnectedness of ecosystems, and how plants and animals coexist and rely on each other for survival. Comprehensive projects could explore the impact of environmental changes on a habitat and its inhabitants.

Experimenting with Physical Science

First graders can begin to understand the world around them through engaging and tangible experiments. From the power of magnetism to the basics of motion, energy, and electricity, physical science in the first grade makes crucial concepts accessible and exciting.

The Magic of Magnetism

They observe the invisible force of magnetism as objects are attracted or repelled. Simple activities involving magnets —like creating a magnet-powered fish game—introduce young learners to concepts such as magnetic poles and magnetic fields.

Fun with Physics: Motion and Energy

Experiments focused on physics can make learning about motion and energy a hands-on experience. A classic balloon rocket experiment showcases the third law of motion , demonstrating that every action has an equal and opposite reaction, captivating first graders with the fast-moving results.

The Wonders of Electricity and Circuits

When children experiment with static electricity , they visually grasp the idea of electrical charges through simple but striking experiments, like making hair stand on end with a balloon. They also learn the basics of creating an electric circuit using a battery , wires, and a small light bulb, laying the foundation for understanding how electricity flows and energizes devices in their daily lives.

Delving into Earth and Space Science

First grade students can embark on an exciting journey through Earth and Space Science, beginning with the foundation of geology and moving to the complexities of weather cycles and the basics of astronomy. Engaging science activities are designed to introduce students to these foundational concepts.

Rocks and Geology: Uncovering Earth’s Layers

Students will discover the fascinating world of rocks and geology by examining different types of rocks. They will learn to classify rocks and may even have the chance to break open geodes , revealing the crystals inside. Through simple experiments, they can understand how soil layers represent various geological periods.

The Water Cycle and Weather Patterns

The Water Cycle is a key element of Earth Science and is crucial in explaining weather conditions . First graders can recreate the water cycle in a classroom experiment by simulating evaporation, condensation, and precipitation. Basic concepts of weather patterns are explored through observations and predictions, reinforcing their understanding of the world around them.

Astronomy for Beginners: Sun, Moon, and Stars

Embarking on a celestial adventure, Astronomy for Beginners introduces them to our Sun , the Moon , and the stars . Through activities like charting the moon phases and observing the stars, young students begin to grasp the vastness of our solar system and the fundamental principles that govern it.

Principles of Light and Sound

First grade science experiments provide an excellent foundation for understanding how light and sound work. These experiments can demonstrate the basic principles that govern these natural phenomena, such as how light can mix to create new colors, and how sound travels through various materials.

Optics and Color Blending

When it comes to light , young learners discover that it behaves in fascinating ways. An experiment might involve a prism which splits white light into its constituent colors, a vibrant demonstration of color mixing . Children can learn that by combining different colors of light, such as red, green, and blue, one can create a whole spectrum of other colors, including the ones they see every day.

Sound Waves and Vibrations

Sound, unlike light, requires a medium like air, water, or solid materials to travel. First-grade experiments often explore sound waves and how they stem from vibrations. Striking a tuning fork or plucking a guitar string can illustrate how these vibrations create sound waves that one can hear. It’s not just instruments that can do this; everyday items like stretched rubber bands or hollow tubes can bring sound vibrations to life, elucidating that sound travels through various materials in waveforms that can be both seen and felt.

Chemistry Experiments for Young Learners

Chemistry is an exciting branch of science that can captivate young minds through interactive and tangible experiments. First grade students are introduced to the foundational concepts of chemistry such as acids, bases, and the creation of simple polymers like slime.

Acids, Bases, and pH Levels

Understanding the basics of acids and bases is essential in the study of chemistry. A simple cabbage pH indicator experiment is a safe and visually engaging way for students to learn about pH levels. Using red cabbage juice, they can test various household liquids to determine if they are acidic, basic, or neutral. This experiment provides a colorful display of the pH spectrum and conveys the chemical properties of common substances.

Mixing Solutions and Observing Reactions

Young learners can observe chemical reactions by mixing solutions . A fun introduction to this concept is the “baking soda and vinegar” reaction. Students will witness the release of carbon dioxide gas when these two substances mix, resulting in fizzy bubbles. This immediate reaction helps them to understand the interaction between an acid (vinegar) and a base (baking soda) and the concept of gas production in chemical reactions.

Creating Polymers and Slime

Polymers are a class of materials made up of long chains of molecules. An engaging way to introduce students to polymers is by creating slime . By mixing a borax solution with glue and a bit of water, students can see the chemical process of polymerization. As they stir the ingredients together, the mixture becomes slime, which is a type of polymer. This tactile experiment not only demystifies a complex concept but also provides a safe and fun learning experience.

Fun with Environmental Science

First grade science experiments offer a fantastic opportunity to introduce young students to environmental science in a hands-on way. They can learn how simple actions can contribute positively to their environment and understand the basics behind renewable energy sources.

Recycling and Conservation Projects

Students can undertake recycling and conservation projects to grasp the importance of resource preservation. A simple project like creating a classroom compost bin explains how organic waste decomposes and reduces landfill waste. They can monitor changes over time, see firsthand the reduction in waste, and learn about the benefits of compost for growing plants. To further drive home the concept of conservation, students can participate in a recycling workshop where they sort recyclable materials and learn which items can be given a new life.

Renewable Energy: Solar and Wind Power

First graders are often captivated by the power of the elements. Teachers can channel this fascination into learning about renewable energy . Crafting a mini solar oven from simple materials like a pizza box, aluminum foil, and plastic wrap provides a practical demonstration of the sun’s energy. Children can observe the power of solar energy as they melt chocolate or marshmallows for a s’mores activity. Additionally, they can explore wind power by constructing basic windmills from paper cups and straws. This hands-on approach solidifies their understanding that energy can be harnessed from natural sources around them, and sparks curiosity about how the wind can be used as a power source.

For an engaging exploration of renewable energy, visit First Grade, Environmental Science STEM Activities for Kids for more ideas and detailed guides.

Culminating Activities and Science Fairs

Culminating activities in first grade, particularly science fairs, offer young students a platform to showcase their understanding and application of scientific principles. Through carefully planned science fair projects , children demonstrate learning and creativity.

Preparing for a Science Fair

When preparing for a science fair, students should select a science activity or experiment that interests them and is feasible to complete with the resources available. Planning is crucial; it involves conducting background research, formulating a hypothesis, and designing an experiment. Detailed planning can help ensure that the science fair project is methodical and educational . Essential steps include:

• Establishing a timeline for completing the project milestones.
• Gathering necessary materials and equipment.
• Conducting the experiment and recording observations.
• Analyzing the results to draw conclusions.

Presenting Your Project

Presentation is key to effectively communicate a science fair project’s findings. Students should:

Construct a clear and informative display that includes:

• Title of the project : to attract attention and describe the experiment.
• Abstract : a brief summary of the project’s objective and outcome.
• Hypothesis : an educated guess made before conducting the experiment.
• Materials and Procedure : a list of items used and steps taken during the experiment.
• Results : visual data representations like graphs or tables.
• Conclusion : a statement on whether the hypothesis was supported by the data.

Practice the oral presentation to confidently explain their work and answer questions:

• Rehearse explaining the project’s purpose, method, and findings.
• Prepare to answer questions from judges and spectators.
• Use notecards or prompts if necessary to stay on point.

Through thoughtful preparation and clear presentation, young students can excel in their science fair endeavors, leaving a lasting impression of their growing scientific acumen.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common inquiries regarding science experiments that are suitable for first graders. It provides practical project ideas and resources that align with the educational standards of first-grade science curricula.

What simple science experiments can first graders conduct at home?

First graders can easily create a day and night demonstration with paper plates to learn about the Earth’s rotation. This activity is both creative and educational, combining art with basic astronomical concepts.

What are some award-winning science fair projects suitable for 1st graders?

Award-winning projects for first graders often feature simple, yet imaginative concepts. For example, young students can explore plant growth by testing the effects of different light conditions or soil types.

Can you suggest some easy science project ideas for first graders?

An array of simple project ideas includes creating a homemade volcano to demonstrate chemical reactions or observing the life cycle of butterflies to understand metamorphosis.

What topics are typically covered in a first-grade science curriculum?

First graders typically learn about life sciences by studying plants and animals, physical sciences by exploring matter and its properties, as well as earth sciences such as weather patterns and geological processes.

Where can I find free science lessons appropriate for 1st-grade students?

Free science lessons for first graders are available online, with sites like Science Buddies offering resources written and tested by scientists.

Could you provide examples of science experiments that are suitable for students in grades 1 through 4?

Suitable experiments for students ranging from grades 1 to 4 include observing the buoyancy of different objects, creating a simple circuit to learn about electricity, or tracking the phases of the moon with a month-long daily diary.

Looking For Toddler Activities Locally?

Fun & Easy Science Fair Projects For 1st Grade

• April 12, 2023
• Science Fair Ideas

Science fairs are a fantastic way to introduce young children to the wonders of science and foster their curiosity about the world around them. For first-grade students, science projects can be particularly engaging, as they offer a hands-on approach to learning that encourages exploration, experimentation, and discovery.

Whether your child is fascinated by animals, loves to build things, or is curious about the environment, there are countless science fair project ideas that are perfect for their age and skill level. So let’s dive in and discover the exciting world of science together!

Science Fair Projects for 1st Grade – Subject Wise

Select your interest on the subject so that you can view the list of science fair project ideas in that subject.

Earth Science

Engineering

Environmental Science

Space Science

Earth and Space

With Plants

Cycle Of Life

Electricity

Projects That Won 1st Place

Using Scientific Methods

Last-minute Projects

Winning Projects

Project ideas for Boys

Project ideas for Girls

Advanced Science Fair Project Ideas

Basket Ball

Biochemistry

Egg Science

Nature Related

Electromagnetic Spectrum

With Variables

Projects to do at home

Measurable Projects

Biology Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade

• Make a Plant cell using craft materials, such as paper mache, clay, or playdough
• Model a butterfly’s life cycle using paper plates, tissue paper, and markers.
• Construct a human body using cardboard and paper cutouts of organs.
• Bird’s nest using twigs, grass, and clay.
• A digestive system model using a clear plastic bag, crackers, and orange juice.
• Model of a bee using pipe cleaners, pom-poms, and googly eyes.
• Make a food chain using toy animals and a poster board.
• Spider web using yarn and sticks.
• Water cycle using a plastic cup, water, and food coloring.
• The solar system using Styrofoam balls and paint
• The behavior of ants and describe how they work together as a team.
• Different types of leaves and describe their shapes and sizes.
• Watch and record the growth of a plant over a few weeks and discuss the changes.
• How other objects float or sink in water and explain why.
• Describe the different types of clouds in the sky.
• Differences between daytime and nighttime animals and how they adapt.
• Record the lifecycle of a ladybug and discuss the various stages .
• The behavior of birds and describe how they use their beaks to eat.
• Compare the growth of two different types of seeds.
• Observe the behavior of two pets, like a cat and a fish.

Earth Science Project Ideas for 1st Grade

• Solar system and identify each planet.
• Volcano and demonstrate how it erupts.
• Model a watershed and explain how water flows through it.
• Construct a beach and describe the different elements found there.
• Build a mountain range and explain how it takes its form.
• Cave and explain how they are formed.
• Glacier and explain how it shapes the land.
• Tornado and demonstrate how it develops.
• Desert and explain how it is different from other ecosystems
• Phases of the moon and describe the changes.
• Compare the shapes and sizes of rocks found outside.
• Watch the weather for a week and discuss the patterns.
• Differences between a day and a night sky.
• Types of soil in your backyard.
• Changes in a plant over a week and discuss why they occur.
• Describe the different types of clouds and their formations.
• Effects of sun and shade on different plants.
• Various kinds of trees in your neighborhood.
• How water moves through different types of materials, like sand or soil

Chemistry Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade

• An atom and explain its different parts.
• Molecule and explain how they combine.
• Lava lamp and explain how it works.
• Rainbow and explain how it is formed.
• Crystal and explain how it grows.
• Lemon battery and explain how it produces electricity .
• Volcano eruption and explain the chemical reactions involved.
• Model a fizzy drink and explain the science behind its bubbles
• Baking soda and vinegar reaction
• Build a firework and explain how it creates different colors
• Compare the properties of different liquids, like water, oil, and syrup.
• Describe the changes that occur when the ice melts.
• How bubbles form and pop.
• Watch how food coloring spreads in water.
• Discuss the differences between hot and cold water.
• Changes that occur when bread is toasted.
• How salt dissolves in water.
• Different materials like sugar or salt affect water density.
• Materials like vinegar or lemon juice can affect the taste of food.

 Engineering Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade

• Simple machines, like a lever or pulley, explain how it works.
• Bridge and discuss how it supports weight.
• Windmill and explain how it converts wind energy into electricity.
• Roller coaster Model making
• Model of a building and how the foundation supports the structure.
• Simple robot and how it moves to input.
• Sailboat Model.
• Hot air balloon and explain how it rises.
• Car and its different parts, like wheels or engine
• Create a catapult and its use of force to move objects
• Different types of bridges you see in your community.
• Watch how an object, such as a ball, bounces differently on different surfaces.
• Observe how a kite flies in the wind.
• How a clock or watch tells time.
• Different materials, like wood or metal, can be used to build structures.
• A seesaw balances weight.
• How does a bicycle work?
• How a ramp can help move objects.
• Simple machines, like a screw or wedge, can be used daily.
• Discuss how gears work together in a machine or toy.

Environmental Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade

• Solar oven: Use a cardboard box, aluminum foil, and plastic wrap, and use it for cooking s’mores.
• Model of a wind turbine using cardboard, paper cups, and a pencil, and testing how much wind it takes to make the turbine turn.
• Water filter using sand, gravel, and a plastic bottle, and test how well it filters dirty water.
• Green roof using a shoebox, soil, and grass seeds, and observing how well the grass grows and how much water it needs.
• Compost bin making using a plastic container, shredded paper, and vegetable scraps, and observing how the scraps break down into compost over time.
• Rain gauge using a plastic bottle, a ruler, and a funnel, and measuring how much rain falls during a storm.
• Terrarium uses a clear plastic container, soil, and small plants to observe how the plants grow over time.
• Solar-powered toy car: Use a small motor, a solar panel, and a cardboard base, and observe how fast it goes in different levels of sunlight.
• Birdhouse using a cardboard box, sticks, and glue, and observing which birds come to nest in it.
• Make a bee hotel using a cardboard tube, paper straws, and twine, and observe which bees come to nest in it.
• The growth of different plants under different light conditions (e.g., sunlight vs. artificial light).
• Monitoring the temperature and humidity levels in a classroom over a day
• Observing the behavior of ants and how they interact with each other and their environment.
• Measuring the amount of water used by different types of plants (e.g., succulents vs. ferns).
• Changes in a plant’s leaves over time as it grows and recording changes in color, shape, or size.
• Amount of air pollution in different areas of a city using a homemade air quality sensor.
• Impact of different types of litter (e.g., paper, plastic, glass) on a local park’s ecosystem.
• Daily weather conditions (e.g., temperature, precipitation, wind speed)
• The behavior of different types of insects (e.g., butterflies, ladybugs, bees)
• Measuring the pH levels of different types of water (e.g., tap water, rainwater, river water)

Space Science Projects for 1st Grade

• A solar system using Styrofoam balls and paint, and learning about the order of the planets.
• Rocket model using cardboard, paper cups, and construction paper, and launching it with baking soda and vinegar.
• Phases of the moon: Use Oreo cookies and observe how the moon’s appearance changes over time.
• Space suits using paper, aluminum foil, and duct tape, and learning about what astronauts wear.
• Space station using cardboard boxes and learning about life in space.
• Constellation using black paper and glow-in-the-dark stickers, and learning about the stories behind the constellation.
• Satellite using a Styrofoam ball and pipe cleaners, and learning about how satellites orbit the Earth.
• Lunar lander using cardboard, paper cups, and aluminum foil, and learning about how astronauts landed on the moon.
• Model of a Mars rover using a toy car and paper, and learning about the technology used to explore Mars.
• Black hole using a black balloon and marbles, and learning about how black holes are formed.
• Observing the moon’s phases for a month and recording their appearance in a journal.
• Position the stars in the sky for a week and record their movement.
• Changes in the shape and size of the sun during a solar eclipse and recording their observations.
• The temperature of different planets in our solar system and comparing their temperatures to Earth’s.
• Differences between day and night on Earth using a globe and a flashlight and recording changes in light and shadow.
• Length of a shadow during different times of day and recording any changes in length.
• Phases of Venus through a telescope and recording their appearance.
• The appearance of a comet over the course of a week and recording any changes in its appearance.
• The gravity of different objects using a spring scale and recording their weight.
• Differences between the appearance of the stars in the sky during different seasons and recording any changes in brightness or position.

1st Grade Earth and Space Science Projects

• Layers of the Earth using different colors of playdough or clay
• Volcano using paper mache and observing how it erupts with baking soda and vinegar.
• Water cycle using a plastic bag, water, food coloring, and learning about how water evaporates and condenses.
• The solar system: Use ping pong balls and learn about the order of the planets.
• Tornado using a bottle, water, and dish Soap and learning about how they form.
• Glacier using ice cubes and clay, and learning about how glaciers move and shape the Earth.
• Watershed using a baking sheet, dirt, and water, and learning about how water moves through the environment.
• Earth’s magnetic field using a bar magnet and iron filings, and learning about how it protects the Earth.
• Desert using sand and small rocks, and learning about the different plants and animals that live there.
• Rainforest using green paper and plastic animals, and learning about the diversity of life in this ecosystem.
• Observing how plants grow in different types of soil
• Temperature and weather outside over a week
• Monitoring the different types of clouds in the sky and recording their appearance.
• Measuring the pH of different types of water
• Observing the different types of rocks and minerals found in the environment
• Amount of rainfall in different types of weather using a rain gauge
• How the position of the sun changes throughout the day
• Growth of a plant for a month and recording any changes in height, number of leaves
• Air quality in different environments, such as near a busy street and in a park, and comparing the results.
• Different types of birds in the environment

1st Grade Science Fair Ideas With Plants

• Experiment to test which type of soil is best for growing plants and planting seeds in different kinds of soil
• Different parts of a plant using construction paper or other materials
• A hydroponic system using a plastic container, water, and plant cuttings
• Test how light affects plant growth and placing plants in different lighting conditions
• Making a model of a greenhouse
• Model of a plant cell using styrofoam
• Designing an experiment to test how different types of fertilizers affect plant growth
• Compost bin using a plastic container and organic matter
• Plants grow in different amounts of water
• Growth of a plant over a month
• Observing how different types of plants react to being placed in sunlight or shade
• The amount of water plants release into the air through transpiration
• How plants respond to being pruned or trimmed
• Effects of temperature on plant growth by placing plants in different environments
• Different types of plants respond to being fertilized
• Amount of time it takes for seeds to germinate
• Various types of plants respond to being grown in different types of containers, such as pots or hanging baskets.
• Effects of different types of light on plant growth by placing plants in different lighting conditions

Cycle of Life Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade

• Butterfly’s life cycle using clay, paper, or other materials.
• Use Legos to build a model of a plant’s life cycle.
• Make a 3D model of a bird’s nest and how eggs are laid and hatched.
• Create a diorama of a frog’s life cycle, including tadpole and adult frog stages.
• Seed growing into a plant using cotton balls and a clear container.
• Playdough to create a model of the life cycle of a ladybug.
• Caterpillar turns into a butterfly using tissue paper and pipe cleaners.
• Model of a food chain using toy animals or pictures of animals.
• Growth of a plant from a seedling to a full-grown plant.
• Document the life cycle of a butterfly in a butterfly habitat
• Observe the hatching and growth of a chicken from an egg.
• Metamorphosis and development of a tadpole into a frog.
• Different stages of a caterpillar turning into a butterfly.
• Watch the changes in a pond over time, including the growth of plants and animals.
• Phases of the moon using a calendar or pictures.
• Changes in weather patterns for a week or month.
• Changes in a tree over a year.
• See the changes in a bird’s nest as eggs are laid, hatched, and birds grow.

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Animals

• Animal habitats using cardboard, construction paper, and other materials.
• Model of an animal cell using playdough or clay.
• 3D model of an animal using pipe cleaners and pom poms.
• Use Legos to build a model of an animal skeleton.
• Make an insect using paper and pipe cleaners.
• Use clay to create different types of animal footprints.
• Bird’s nest using twigs, feathers, and other materials.
• Animal’s life cycle using paper, markers, and pictures.
• Use paper and crayons to create different types of animal camouflage.
• Learn the behavior of ants in an ant farm.
• Different types of birds that visit a bird feeder.
• The movement of earthworms in the soil.
• Various kinds of insects that are attracted to light at night.
• Growth and development of a caterpillar into a butterfly.
• Changes in a tadpole as it develops into a frog.
• The changes in animal behavior during different seasons.
• Different types of animals that live in a pond.
• Watch the behavior of a pet or farm animal over time.
• The differences between different types of animal tracks in mud or sand.

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Human Body

• A model of the human brain using playdough or clay.
• Skeleton using straws and cotton swabs.
• Use cardboard and markers to make the human heart and circulatory system.
• Tooth and the different parts of a tooth using clay or playdough.
• Create a human digestive system using a clear plastic bag and food items.
• Use paper and crayons to make different types of cells in the human body.
• A human respiratory system using straws and balloons
• Use paper plates and pictures to show the different parts of the human eye.
• The human ear and the different parts of the ear: Use clay or playdough.
• Make a model of the human tongue and the different taste buds
• Observe the changes in heart rate during different types of physical activity
• Different kinds of fingerprints of different people in the class.
• Changes in breathing rate during different types of physical activity.
• Differences in height and weight among different people in the class.
• Various eye colors among different people in the class.
• Types of food preferences among different people in the class.
• Physical abilities among different people around you
• Changes in skin color after being exposed to sunlight for different amounts of time.
• Different types of hair colors among people around you
• Differences in flexibility among your chosen sample of people

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Electricity

• A simple circuit, but make it using a battery, wire, and lightbulb.
• Make a switch model using cardboard, paper clips, and wires.
• SSolar panel using cardboard and aluminum foil.
• Simple electromagnet using a battery, wire, and a nail.
• Make a simple motor using a battery, wire, and magnet.
• Parallel circuit using multiple light bulbs and batteries.
• Series circuit making
• Simple buzzer using a battery, wire, and a piezo element.
• Doorbell using a battery, wire, and a bell.
• Different types of lightbulbs and their brightness levels.
• Various types of batteries and their lifespans.
• Observe the differences between different types of conductors and insulators.
• Various types of switches and how they work.
• Differences between series and parallel circuits.
• Learn the different types of energy sources and their efficiency.
• Understand the differences between AC and DC electricity.
• Effects of temperature on batteries and other electrical components.
• Types of lightbulb colors and their effects on mood and atmosphere.
• Differences between the sounds produced by different types of buzzers and bells.

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Magnetism

• Model of a simple magnetic field using iron filings and a magnet.
• Compass using a magnet and a cork floating in the water.
• Magnetic levitation train using magnets and a strip of metal.
• Magnetic field detector using a magnet and a compass.
• Magnetic motor using a battery, wire, and magnet.
• Create a magnetic door latch using a magnet and a metal plate.
• Make a magnetic jewelry clasp using magnets and metal beads.
• Magnetic pencil holder using magnets and a metal cup.
• Magnetic maze game using magnets and a metal board.
• Observe different types of magnets and their strengths.
• Differences between attracted and repelled magnets.
• Different types of metal objects are attracted to magnets.
• Magnetic fields between different magnets
• Effects of distance on the strength of a magnet’s attraction.
• Differences between the north and south poles of a magnet.
• Effects of temperature on magnets and their strength.
• Learn the differences between permanent magnets and temporary magnets.
• Document the results of magnets on electronics and computer screens.
• The uses of magnets in everyday life, such as in speakers and refrigerator doors.

 Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Motion

• Simple pulley system using string and a weight.
• Make an Inclined plane using a board and a toy car.
• Lever using a board and weight.
• Balance scale using a ruler and toy weights.
• Create a simple pendulum using a weight and string.
• Model of a rocket using a straw and paper.
• Roller coaster making using a tube and marbles.
• Catapult design using popsicle sticks and rubber bands.
• Make a model of a balloon car using a balloon and a toy car.
• Learn the different types of motion, such as linear, circular, and back-and-forth.
• Effects of gravity on the motion.
• Differences between potential energy and kinetic energy.
• Smooth and rough surfaces and their effects on motion.
• Objects with different masses and their motion.
• Effects of air resistance on the action.
• Observe the differences between fast and slow motion.
• The effects of force on the movement.
• Rolling, sliding, and bouncing motion.
• Various types of simple machines and their effects on motion.

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Sound

• Make a Musical instrument, such as a kazoo or harmonica.
• Simple speaker-making using a paper cup and a piece of wire.
• Create a microphone using a paper cup and a wire.
• Model of a soundproofing box using cardboard and foam.
• Wind chime using string and paper cups.
• Tone generator using a rubber band and a ruler.
• Vibration detector using a balloon and a straw.
• Sound wave generator using a slinky.
• Tuning fork using a piece of wire and a spoon.
• Drum using a cardboard box and balloons.
• Different types of sound are loud, soft, high-pitched, and low-pitched.
• Effects of distance on sound.
• The differences between sounds made by different instruments.
• Observe the differences between sounds made by different materials.
• The effects of sound waves on materials, such as sand or water.
• Sounds made in quiet and noisy environments.
• Sound on living organisms, such as plants or animals, and its effects
• Differences between sounds made by human voices, such as singing or speaking.
• Observe the effects of sound on everyday objects, such as glasses or cans.
• Various types of vibrations that create sound

Science Fair Projects That Won 1st Place (1st Grade Level)

• Solar oven model
• Light and plant growth
• Water cycle model
• Human heart model
• Temperature and crystal growth
• Food and bacteria growth
• Simple machine model
• Material types and bridge strength
• Solar system model
• Volcano model
• Soil and plant growth
• Water and plant growth
• Detergent and cleaning power
• Plant cell model
• Water filtration system model
• Water clock model
• Magnets and magnetic field strength
• Paper types and paper airplane strength
• Roller coaster model
• Music and plant growth

 Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Food

• Model of the digestive system using a plastic bag, crackers, and juice
• Document the effects of different types of foods on mold growth.
• Plant cells using a hard-boiled egg, food coloring, and craft supplies.
• Rock cycle using chocolate, heat, and pressure.
• The temperature of the melting rate of chocolate
• Different types of drinks on tooth decay
• Food chain using toy animals and plants.
• Layers of the Earth using cake and frosting
• Effects of different types of cooking oils on the smoke point
• Various kinds of light on the growth of plants
• Model of the water cycle using gelatin and food coloring.
• Make a Molecule using marshmallows and toothpicks.
• Observe the effects of different types of fruits on the color and texture of gelatin.
• Create a volcano using fruit and candy.
• Salt on the boiling point of water
• Show a Solar system using fruits and vegetables.
• Protein using spaghetti and marshmallows.
• Types of sugar on the fermentation rate of yeast
• Effects of different types of liquids on plant growth

 Science Fair Projects Using Scientific Method

• Conductivity Test
• Liquid and Plant Growth Observation
• Build a model of a plant’s life cycle and demonstrate how it grows with different variables like sunlight, water, and soil.
• Volcano Eruption using baking soda and vinegar.
• Bridge model making and testing its strength with different weights.
• Light source and object: Demonstrate how shadows are formed with different angles and distances.
• Sink or Float Experiment
• Balloon Size and Temperature Observation
• Make an airplane and demonstrate how it flies with different angles and wind speeds.
• Magnet and demonstrate how it attracts and repels different materials.
• Soap and Surface Tension Observation
• Salt and Ice Melting Rate Observation
• Pulley and demonstrate how it makes lifting objects easier.
• Model a boat and demonstrate how it floats with different shapes and weights.
• Sugar and Boiling Point Observation
• Vitamin C Content Test
• Air Pressure and Object Deformation Observation
• String telephone and demonstrate how sound travels through different materials
• Ramp Angle and Toy Car Distance Observation

Last-Minute Projects for 1st Graders

• Model of a dinosaur using paper and markers
• Make a Tornado using a plastic bottle and water.
• The type of bird seed attracts the most birds to a bird feeder.
• Create a volcano design using paper mache and paint.
• Test which material insulates the best by wrapping ice cubes in different materials and measuring how long they take to melt.
• Observe the growth of a plant with different amounts of sunlight or water.
• Which type of paper airplane design flies the farthest?
• Plant cells using a clear plastic bag, gelatin, and candy.
• Effects of different types of liquid on an eggshell.
• Note which magnet type is the strongest by seeing which can hold the most paper clips.
• What type of fruit juice stains white fabric the most?
• How a balloon reacts when it is placed in different temperatures
• Effects of different types of soil on the growth of bean plants
• Wind vane using a paper arrow and a straw.
• Experiment with various bubble solutions, which make the strongest bubbles.
• Which candy dissolves the fastest in water?
• What liquid freezes the fastest
• Different types of music on a plant’s growth.
• Test which type of soil retains water the best
• Different types of Soap on the growth of bacteria on hands
• Observe the effects of different types of light on the growth of mold.

Winning Projects for 1st Grade

• Weather Model: Create a model of different weather conditions using cotton balls, construction paper, and markers
• Model of a butterfly’s wings using paper, paint, and glitter to show how they reflect light
• Ecosystem Model: Create a model of an ecosystem using cardboard, construction paper, and plastic animals
• Growth of plants placed in different amounts of sunlight to determine how much sunlight is necessary for plant growth
• Make a Circuit using wires, batteries, and LED lights to show how electricity flows through a circuit.
• Animal Tracks: Compare the tracks of different animals to determine what animals have been in a specific area.
• Water quality in different bodies of water to determine how pollution affects water quality.
• Vibrations of different objects to determine how sound travels through different materials.
• Color Mixing: Observe and mix different colors of paint to determine what colors can be made by mixing primary colors
• Make a model of a seedling using a clear plastic cup, soil, and seed to show how plants grow from a tiny seed.
• Different types of soil to determine what type of soil is best for plant growth.
• Test different objects to determine which ones are magnetic and which ones are not.
• Measure the shadows cast by different objects to determine how the sun’s angle affects the length of shadows.
• Worms: use pipe cleaners, yarn, and googly eyes to demonstrate how worms move and live in the soil.
• Bubble Science: Observe and experiment with different types of bubbles to determine what factors affect the size and shape of bubbles.
• Build a maze using cardboard, paint, and marbles to demonstrate how physics and gravity affect motion.
• Observe and compare the growth of plants with different amounts of water and sunlight to determine what plants need to grow properly.

 Project Ideas for Boys (1st Grade)

• Blast Off!: Building a Model Rocket
• Cardboard Speedster: Designing a Race Car
• Observe and measure the effects of temperature on the rate of ice melting.
• Robot: Use cardboard, markers, and glue to show how machines can be programmed to move.
• Robo-Adventures: Building a Cardboard Robot
• Launch It!: Creating a Popsicle Stick Catapult
• Let There Be Light: Examining Plant Growth
• SubmarinE: Use plastic bottles, glue, and paint to show how submarines operate underwater.
• Hovercraft: use a CD, a balloon, and a bottle cap to show how air pressure can lift objects.
• Properties of different liquids, such as density and viscosity.
• Lifting Challenge: Building a Popsicle Stick Crane
• Different types of objects on the buoyancy of water
• Dinosaurs: use clay or paper mache to show what scientists think they look like.
• Treehouse: use popsicle sticks, glue, and paint to show how structures are built and supported.
• Material Soundscapes: Testing the Acoustics of Different Materials
• Tornado: use a soda bottle, water, and glitter to show how tornadoes form and move.
• The strength of different types of magnets.
• Observe and compare the color and texture of different types of soil.
• Effects of different types of surfaces on friction.
• Measure the effects of different types of objects on the speed and direction of air currents.

 Project Ideas for Girls (1st Grade)

• Playdough Plant Cell
• Bird Nest Building
• Light and Plant Growth
• Flower Color and Texture
• Styrofoam Solar System
• Food and Yeast Growth
• Surfaces and Friction
• Liquids and Density
• Glittery Butterfly Transformation
• Cup Greenhouse Growing
• DIY Weather Vane
• Clay Volcano Eruption
• Objects and Buoyancy
• Materials and Sound Waves
• Objects and Air Currents
• Magnets and Object Movement
• Shoebox Butterfly Habitat
• Water Cycle Model
• Colorful Rainforest Diorama

Advanced Science Fair Project Ideas for 1st Grade

• Optimal Conditions for Plant Growth
• Seasons in Motion: Understanding Weather Patterns
• The Power of Magnets: Exploring Magnetic Fields
• Inside the Human Body: An Exploration of Our Anatomy
• Unleashing the Charge: Investigating Static Electricity
• Sounds All Around Us: The Science of Sound Waves
• Matter Matters: Examining the States of Matter
• The Transformative Power of Water: Liquid to Gas
• The Light and the Dark: Understanding Light and Shadow
• Adapt or Die: Animal Survival Tactics
• Rainbows Revealed: The Science of Spectral Colors
• The Gravity Games: Learning About Gravity
• The Wonders of Space: A Study of the Solar System
• Erupting Volcanoes: A Look at Geothermal Activity
• Photosynthesis: How Plants Produce Food
• Cloud Chronicles: Investigating Cloud Formation
• The Water Cycle in Action: Understanding Precipitation
• Push and Pull: The Effects of Air Pressure on Objects
• Temperature Matters: Understanding Thermometers
• Rock Revelations: Exploring the Formation of Rocks

 Astronomy Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade

• Miniature Solar System Model
• Studying the Different Constellations in the Night Sky
• Tracking the Movement of Planets Across the Sky
• Phases of the Moon Model
• Model Rocket
• Model Space Station
• Observing the Effects of Light Pollution on the Night Sky
• International Space Station Model
• Effects of Different Types of Telescopes on Viewing the Night Sky
• Different Shapes of Stars
• Model Mars Rover
• Distance on the Appearance of Stars
• Movement of the Sun Across the Sky
• Model Comet or Asteroid
• Milky Way Galaxy Model
• Observing the Different Colors of the Planets
• Model Black Hole
• Supernova Explosion Model
• Characteristics of Comets and Asteroids

 Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Baking

• Cookie Shape’s Influence on Baking Time and Texture
• Sugar Amount’s Effect on Cake Texture
• Oven Temperature’s Impact on Muffin Baking Time
• Flour Type’s Influence on Cake Texture
• Consequences of Excessive Baking Powder in Recipes
• Importance of Ingredient Order in Baking
• Altitude’s Effect on Baking Times and Temperatures
• Cake Pan Shape’s Effect on Baking Time
• Different Types of Yeast’s Effect on Bread Texture
• Eggless Cake Baking and Texture Impact
• Baking Soda’s Effect on Cookie Texture
• Different Fats’ Impact on Baked Goods
• Different Milk Types’ Effects on Cake Texture
• Salt’s Influence on Baked Goods Texture
• Chocolate Chip Size’s Effect on Cookie Texture and Baking Time
• Overmixing Cake Batter and Texture Consequences
• Baking Powder-Free Cake Baking and Texture Impact
• Different Sweeteners’ Effect on Baked Goods Texture.

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Basketball

• How can the size of a basketball affect how high it bounces?
• The Effect of Basketball Temperature on Bounce
• Air Pressure’s Impact on Basketball Bounce
• Surface Texture’s Influence on Basketball Bounce
• Does the material of a basketball affect how it bounces?
• Height’s Effect on Basketball Bounce
• Shape’s Influence on Basketball Bounce
• Texture’s Role in Basketball Grip
• The Relationship Between Basketball Color and Game Visibility
• Weight’s Impact on Basketball Distance
• Does the age of a basketball affect its bounce and grip?
• The Trajectory of a Basketball at Different Angles
• Backspin’s Effect on Basketball Trajectory
• Arm Position’s Influence on Basketball Shot Trajectory
• Force’s Effect on Basketball Speed
• Distance’s Impact on Force Needed for Basketball Shot
• Air Resistance’s Effect on Basketball Shot Trajectory
• How does the elasticity of the basketball affect its bounce?
• Does the bounce of a basketball change with repeated use?

 Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Battery

• Testing Battery Power Across Different Types
• Building a Circuit with a Battery
• Creating a Potato-Powered Battery
• Understanding Solar-Powered Batteries
• How Batteries Fuel Flashlights
• Investigating Temperature’s Effect on Battery Life
• What and how to make a rechargeable battery
• Exploring Battery Performance Over Time
• How Battery Size Affects Performance
• Building a DIY Lemon Battery
• Powering Radios with Batteries
• Examining Button Battery Technology
• How Batteries Power Remote Devices
• Creating a Homemade Battery Tester
• Investigating Storage’s Impact on Battery Performance
• Understanding Alkaline Battery Technology
• DIY Battery-Powered Fan
• Battery Performance Across Brands
• Understanding Lithium Battery Technology
• How Batteries Fuel Electric Toys 

Biochemistry Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade

• Investigating the Growth of Plants under Different Conditions
• The Effect of Light on Plant Growth
• The Nutrient Needs of Plants
• How Do Seeds Grow?
• The Importance of Water for Plant Growth
• Investigating the Effects of Acidic and Basic Substances on Plants
• Effect of Temperature on the Growth of Seeds
• The Process of Photosynthesis in Plants
• How Do Animals Get Their Food?
• Digestive System of Humans and Animals
• Senses of Humans and Animals
• Effects of Exercise on the Body
• The Importance of Sleep for Humans and Animals
• Role of Sugar on Tooth Decay
• Investigating the Different Types of Bacteria
• Importance of Hand Washing in Preventing Illness
• Different Types of Foods and Their Nutritional Value
• How Do We Breathe?
• The Different Types of Blood Cells
• Effect of Exercise on Heart Rate 

1st Grade Physics Science Fair Ideas

• The velocity of Various Balls Rolling Down a Slope
• Gravity’s Impact on Various Objects
• Testing Simple Machines, Such as Levers or Pulleys
• Marble Run and Observing Marbles’ Trajectory
• Examining the Impact of Friction on Moving Objects
• Make Paper Airplanes for Distance and Rate
• Studying the Effect of Wind on Various Objects
• Creating a Simple Water Wheel and Observing Its Operation
• Actions of Magnets and Investigating Their Mechanisms
• Effect of Weight on a Car’s Ramp Travel Distance
• Constructing and Testing Simple Electrical Circuits
• Impact of Various Materials on Sound
•  The behavior of Light and Investigating Its Propagation
•  Effect of Distance on Sound Volume
• Creating a Simple Pendulum and Observing Its Behavior
• Studying the Effect of Temperature on Liquid Behavior
• Investigating the Effect of Shape on Object Buoyancy
• Impact of Different Surfaces on Ball Bounce
• Shadow Actions and Studying Their Formation Mechanisms 

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with DNA

• Building a DNA model using candy or other materials.
• Extracting DNA from strawberries or other fruits using household items.
• Creating a family tree using photos and exploring similarities and differences in DNA
• Investigating inherited traits among family members, such as eye or hair color.
• Comparing the DNA of different types of fruits or vegetables to see if they are similar or different.
• Observing the effects of radiation or other environmental factors on DNA
• How DNA determines the sex of an organism
• Can Gene therapy be used to treat genetic disorders?
• Exploring how identical twins have the same DNA but may have different traits.
• Mutations in DNA can lead to genetic disorders.
• DNA of different animals and exploring similarities and differences
• Genetic traits can be passed down through generations
• Creating a DNA fingerprint by analyzing patterns in fingerprints or hair
• How DNA testing is used to solve crimes.
• Role of DNA in the process of evolution.
• Can Genetic engineering be used to modify DNA?
• Comparing the DNA of identical and fraternal twins
• DNA testing is used to determine paternity or maternity
• Differences in DNA between plant and animal cells
• DNA technology used in medicine and healthcare 

Density Science Fair Projects for 1st Grade

• Density of Liquids
• Simple Boat for Density and Buoyancy
• The density of Fruits and Vegetables
• Density of Rocks
• Layered Density Tower
• Temperature and Density of Liquids
• Density of Objects
• Pressure and Density of Objects
• Archimedes Screw for Density
• Density of Metals
• Cartesian Diver for Density and Pressure
• Salinity and Water Density
• Lava Lamp for Density and Buoyancy
• Density of Woods
• Density Filter for Liquids
• Sugar and Solution Density
• Density of Gases
• Waterwheel for Density and Buoyancy
• Adding Substances and Water Density
• Hydrometer for Density Measurement

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Dry Ice

• Effects of Dry Ice on Water
• Testing a Simple Dry Ice Bubble Machine
•  Effects of Dry Ice on Different Materials
• Make a Simple Dry Ice Fog Machine
• Investigating the Effects of Dry Ice on Balloons
• Creating a Dry Ice Explosion and Observing the Effects
• Building a Simple Dry Ice Rocket
• The Effects of Dry Ice on Food Preservation
• Create a Simple Dry Ice Cannon
• Creating Dry Ice Crystal Formations and Observing the Growth
• Make a Simple Dry Ice Bubble Snake
• Observing the Effects of Dry Ice on Sound Waves
• Simple Dry Ice Balloon Car
• Investigating the Effects of Dry Ice on Color Change
• Dry Ice Volcano and Observing the Eruption
• Effects of Dry Ice on Density
• Observing the Effects of Dry Ice on Light Refraction
• Simple Dry Ice Boat 

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Candy

• Dissolving Candy in Different Liquids
• Building a Candy Structure with Toothpicks and Marshmallows
• Effect of Temperature on Candy
• Making a Rainbow with Candy and Water
• Making a Candy Maze
• Comparing the Size of Different Candies When Dissolved in Water
• Making Rock Candy at Home
• Investigating the Effect of Vinegar on Candy
• Candy Tower with Gumdrops and Toothpicks
• Effect of Salt on Candy Dissolving
• Building a Candy Bridge
• Effect of Citric Acid on Candy Dissolving
• Candy House with Graham Crackers and Frosting
• Impact of Different Sugars on Candy
• Make a Candy Ferris Wheel
• Making Edible Slime with Candy
• Microwave a candy to see what happens
• Build a candy rollercoaster
• Effect of Different pH Levels on Candy Dissolving

Egg Science Project Ideas for 1st Graders

• Bouncing Ability of Hard-Boiled vs. Raw Eggs
• Different Methods of Eggshell Dyeing
• Effect of Vinegar on Dissolving Eggshells
• Egg Drop Contraption to Protect Raw Eggs
• The temperature on Eggshell Strength
• Egg Spinner to Observe Centripetal Force
• Effect of Different Liquids on Eggshell Dissolving
• Egg-Powered Car to Observe Potential Energy
• Acidic vs. Basic Conditions on Eggshell Strength
• The density of Raw vs. Hard-Boiled Eggs
• Effect of Time on the Bouncing Ability of Raw Eggs
• Impact of Salt Water on Egg Buoyancy
• Egg Geodesic Dome to Observe Structural Strength
• Effect of Pressure on Eggshell Strength
• Different Cleaning Methods for Dirty Eggs
• Egg Carton Catapult to Observe Projectile Motion
• Effect of Light on Eggshell Color
• Various Egg Separation Techniques
• Effect of Air Pressure on Eggshell Strength
• Egg Balloon to Observe Air Pressure 

Earth Science Fair Projects for 1st Grade

• Simple Volcano Model to Observe Eruptions
• Effect of Soil Type on Plant Growth
• Simple Wind Vane to Observe Wind Direction
• Soil Erosion Prevention Methods
• Effect of Water on Soil Erosion
• Simple Rain Gauge to Measure Precipitation
• Role of Sunlight on Plant Growth
• Water-Holding Capacity of Different Types of Soil
• Effect of Soil pH on Plant Growth
• Simple Water Filtration System to Observe Water Purification
• Properties of Different Types of Rocks and Minerals
• Impact of Temperature on Soil Moisture
• Simple Model of the Water Cycle to Observe Evaporation and Condensation
• Different Types of Fertilizers on Plant Growth
• Effect of Different Types of Rocks on Soil Quality
• Simple Solar Still to Observe Water Distillation
• Properties of Different Types of Soil
• Effect of Different Types of Ground Cover on Soil Erosion
• Simple Seismometer to Observe Earthquakes
• Effectiveness of Different Types of Mulch on Plant Growth 

Nature Related Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade

• Building a Birdhouse and Observing Nesting Birds
• Volcano Model and Eruption Observation
• Simple Wind Vane for Wind Direction Observation
• Solar System Model for Learning Planet Order
• Ecosystem Model for Understanding Animal-Plant Relationships
• Butterfly Model and Life Cycle Observation
• Habitat Model for Understanding Animal Importance
• Simple Terrarium for Plant Growth Observation
• Beehive Model for Understanding Honey Production
• Effects of Soil Types on Plant Growth Observation
• Ant Behavior and Habitat Observation
• Material Decomposition in the Environment Observation
• Effects of Light Types on Plant Growth Observation
• Bird Behavior at Different Times of Day Observation
• Mold Growth on Different Types of Bread Observation
• Effects of Temperature on Ice Melting and Freezing Observation
• Weather Pattern Changes over Time Observation
• Effects of Water on Seed Germination Observation
• Growth of Crystals in Different Conditions Observation 

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Electromagnetic Spectrum

• Effects of Light on Plant Growth
• Simple Motor Model making
• Effects of Ultraviolet Light on Materials
• Make a fun Radio Model
• Effects of Light on Object Colors
• Simple Circuit Model
• Electromagnet Model Making
• Effects of Electromagnetic Waves on Metals
• Effects of Radio Waves on Electronic Devices
• Simple Telegraph Model
• Design a Microwave Model
• Manipulating Light with Different Lenses
• Attraction and Repulsion of Magnets
• Effects of Static Electricity on Materials
• Electrical Conductivity of Different Materials
• Receiving Different Types of Radio Waves with Different Antennas
• Build a Radar Model
• Make a Laser Model 

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Variables

• Simple machines, such as a lever or pulley, and testing how different weights affect their function.
• Boat and testing how different materials affect its buoyancy.
• Bridge making and testing how different materials affect their strength.
• Car and testing how different wheels affect its speed.
• Plane and testing how different wing shapes affect its flight.
• Water filtration system and testing how different filters affect its ability to purify water.
• Greenhouse and testing how different amounts of sunlight affect plant growth.
• Roller coaster and testing how different track designs affect the speed and thrill of the ride.
• Windmill and testing how different wind speeds affect its ability to generate electricity.
• Volcano and testing how different amounts of baking soda and vinegar affect the eruption.
• Different seeds germinate under different conditions, such as temperature, light, and moisture.
• Effects of different types of soil on plant growth.
• Different kinds of liquids affect ice melting, such as water, salt water, and sugar water.
• Does music affect the heart rate of people or animals?
• Types of food affect the behavior of ants or other insects.
• Various types of weather affect the behavior of animals, such as birds or squirrels.
• Does Soap affect the number of bubbles produced when blown through a bubble wand?
• Effects of different types of paper on airplane flight distance.
• Types of objects, such as rocks or balls, roll down ramps at different speeds.
• How different types of materials, such as cotton or wool, absorb water differently. 

Robot Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade

• Simple robot using cardboard, paper cups, and markers to demonstrate basic movement
• Robots are used in medicine, such as for surgery or diagnosis.
• Building a robotic arm using straws and string to show how robots can perform specific tasks.
• Creating a model of a robotic animal using cardboard and markers to demonstrate different types of movement.
• Make a simple maze for a robot to navigate using cardboard and markers.
• How robots are used in agriculture, such as for planting or harvesting crops
• Model of a robotic hand using cardboard, string, and straws to demonstrate how robots can interact with objects.
• Robotic insects using cardboard and markers to show how robots can mimic nature.
• Observing the different types of robots used in everyday life, such as cleaning robots or delivery robots
• A robotic vehicle using cardboard and markers to demonstrate different kinds of movement.
• How are Robots used in space exploration, such as for collecting data or conducting experiments?
• Robotic toys using recycled materials and a motor to demonstrate how robots can be fun
• Observing how robots are used in entertainment, such as for interactive exhibits or theme park rides.
• Robotic plant watering system using straws and string to show how robots can perform specific tasks.
• Robotic vacuum using cardboard and markers to show how robots can clean.
• How robots are used in manufacturing and assembly lines
• Observing how robots are used in transportation, such as for self-driving cars or drones.
• Studying how robots can be programmed to perform specific tasks, such as sorting objects or stacking blocks.
• Learning how robots can be controlled remotely, such as with a joystick or app.
• Investigating how robots can be designed to mimic the movement and behavior of animals or insects. 

Projects to Do at Home for 1st Grade

• Build a simple paper airplane and test which design flies the farthest.
• Make a mini greenhouse with clear plastic cups and compare the growth of plants with and without sunlight
• Observe how different liquids (water, oil, honey) behave when poured into a container
• Create a model volcano and learn about chemical reactions by making it erupt with baking soda and vinegar.
• Machine with LEGO bricks and explore how it can make work easier.
• Construct a bridge out of popsicle sticks and test its strength by seeing how many coins it can hold
• How objects float or sink in water and discover why some objects float and others sink.
• Study the changes in the moon’s appearance over a month by drawing the phases of the moon each night
• Paper plate sundial and observe how the position of the sun changes throughout the day
• Growing plants in different soil types and determining which soil type is best for growing plants.
• How does ice melt at different temperatures, and discover what factors affect the melting rate?
• Watch how magnets attract and repel each other and learn about the properties of magnetism.
• Light traveling through different materials (glass, plastic, paper)
• Simple electric circuit with batteries, wires, and a light bulb to learn about electricity.
• Miniature water cycle with a jar, a plate, and water to learn about evaporation and condensation
• The behavior of ants by observing them on an ant farm or a sidewalk
• Model the solar system using balloons or Styrofoam balls and learn about the different planets
• Effects of gravity by dropping different objects and comparing their fall times
• Robot with cardboard and markers and explore how it can move and respond to its environment
• Study how Shadows change throughout the day as the position of the sun changes 

Top 10 1st Grade Science Fair Projects

• Birdhouse Battle: Comparing Designs for Attracting Birds
• Comparing Ants and Spiders for Prey-catching Efficiency
•  Observing and Comparing Growth Rates of Different Types
• Paper Power: Testing Bridges for Strength
• Testing and Comparing Effectiveness of Sunscreens
• Airborne Adventure: Creating and Testing Paper Planes
• Wind Wizardry: Building and Comparing Wind Turbine Models
• Bird Behaviors in Different Feeders
• Parachute Prowess: Testing Descent Rates of Different Designs
• Pet Pals: Observing and Comparing Loyalty Behaviors of Different Types
• Comparing Melting Rates of Different Ice Creams
• Cloud Count: Observing and Comparing Movement Patterns of Different Types
• Effectiveness of Different Soaps for Stain Removal
• Boat Bonanza: Building and Comparing Models for Speed
• Car Craze: Comparing Aerodynamic Designs for Efficiency
• Rollercoaster Rush: Building and Testing Models for Thrills
• Rocket Race: Competing for Highest Launch
• Solar Cook-Off: Creating and Testing Solar Cooker Models
• Comparing Reaction Times of Different Balls
• Plant Growth in Response to Different Music Types 

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Water

• Sippy Cup Science: Comparing Water Flow Rates in Different Cups
• Sink or Swim: Different Materials for Water Resistance
• Color Splash: Testing Different Methods of Mixing Colors in Water
• The Water Cycle: Building a Model and Exploring Its Stages
• Ice Experiment: Melting Rates of Ice in Different Temperatures
• Salt Solution: Investigating the Effect of Salt on Water’s Boiling Point
• Filtration Fun: Building and Testing a DIY Water Filter
• Water Currents: Building and Testing a Model of a Water Current
• Underwater World: Creating a Diorama of Underwater Life
• Osmosis Olympics: Comparing Water Movement Across Different Membranes
• Bubble Bonanza: The Size and Durability of Soap Bubbles in Water
• Density Discovery: The Ability of Different Objects to Float or Sink in Water
• Color Changes: Color Changes in Water with Different Additives
• Water Shapes: Shapes of Water Drops on Different Surfaces
• Sound Waves: Observing Sound Waves in Water with Different Objects
• Animal Aquatics: Comparing Swimming Techniques of Different Animals in Water
• Cloudy Conclusions: Formation of Clouds with Water Vapor and Other Materials
• Absorbent Abilities: Observing and Comparing the Absorbent Abilities of Different Materials in Water
• Buoyancy Battle: Buoyancy of Different Objects in Water
• Water Wonders: Investigating the Effects of Water on Different Materials (e.g., rust, mold, etc.) 

Science Fair Ideas for 1st Grade with Horse

• Horseshoe Physics: Investigating the Effects of Different Shoe Designs on a Horse’s Gait
• Feed Science: Comparing the Nutritional Value of Different Horse Feed Types
• Different Horse Breeds and Their Characteristics
• Horse Anatomy: Model making and Different Parts of a Horse’s Body
• Digestion Discovery: Building a Model of a Horse’s Digestive System
• Identifying the Different Gaits of a Horse in Motion
• Saddle Science: Comparing the Comfort of Different Saddle Types for a Horse
• Horse Hair: Investigating the Characteristics and Differences of Different Horse Hair Types
• Comparing the Health of Different Horse Hoof Types
• Observing Different Horse Coat Colors and Patterns
• Identifying the Dietary Habits of Horses in Different Environments
• Equine Vision: How Horses See and Perceive Their Surroundings
• Behavior Studies: Recording Different Behaviors of Horses in Different Environments
• Tack Test: Comparing the Durability of Different Tack Materials for Horses
• Comparing the Different Care Practices for Horses in Different Environments
• Stable Science: Effects of Different Stable Environments on a Horse’s Health
• Different Emotions Displayed by Horses in Different Situations
• Forms of Communication Among Horses
• Health Conditions and Ailments in Horses

Measurable Projects for 1st Grade

• Simple Scale to Measure the Weight of Different Objects
• Measuring Height: Building a Simple Device to Measure the Height of Different Objects
• Light Meter to Measure Different Light Levels
• Balancing Act: Investigating the Effects of Weight on Balance
• Measuring Force: Investigating the Effects of Different Forces on Movement
• Simple Device to Measure the Distance Between Two Points
• Thermometer to Measure Temperature Changes
• Clock to Measure Time Elapsed
• Sound Meter to Measure Different Sound Levels
• Investigating the Effects of Different Factors on Speed
• Measuring the Length of Shadows at Different Times of Day
• Different Weather Patterns and Changes
• Growth of Different Plants or Animals
• Comparing the Volume of Different Objects or Liquids
• Understanding the Capacity of Different Containers
• Density measurement of Different Objects or Substances
• Measuring the pH Levels of Different Substances
• The Surface Tension of Different Liquids
• Effects of Wind on Different Objects or Materials

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Think Earth First Grade Unit

The First Grade unit of Think Earth’s environmental curriculum, Bernie the School Bus, focuses on conserving natural resources. Students learn that everything comes from the environment and that they can help conserve resources by using water, paper, electricity, and natural gas wisely.

In the Grade 1 unit, students are introduced to:

• what the natural environment is
• how we use natural resources from the environment to make products
• why we shouldn’t waste natural resources
• how we can all conserve natural resources

How to Teach Think Earth

Download all the materials onto your computer OR use them directly from the website.

The Teacher’s Guide contains links to all the materials, so if using the Guide online, you can access the materials directly as you are teaching.

The Posters and Practice Exercises can be used in any of the following ways:

• Project pages directly from a computer with a projector or smartboard.
• Print pages and display them with a document camera.
• Load pages onto students’ tablets or computers.
• Print and distribute pages to students.

The Videos and Songs can be used in any of the following ways:

• Stream from this page to project video and play audio.
• Download the files and play from your computer.
• Load the files onto students’ tablets or computers, or provide links for streaming.

Think Earth First Grade Unit Materials

Register or login to access the materials below.

• Teacher's Guide
• Everything Comes from the Environment Color Poster
• Everything Comes from the Environment Black & White Poster
• Practice Exercise 1
• Practice Exercise 2
• Natural Resource Cards
• Product Cards
• Family Activity Sheet
• Bye-Bye, Bernie Story Cards
• Bernie is Back Story Cards
• Think Earth Poster
• Think Earth Narrated
• Think Earth Narrated (CC)
• Think Earth Unnarrated
• Story: Bye-Bye, Bernie
• Story: Bye-Bye, Bernie (CC)
• Story: Bernie is Back
• Story: Bernie is Back (CC)
• Think Earth Vocal
• Think Earth Instrumental

Curriculum Resources

• Standards Correlations
• Summary of Unit Objectives
• Literature Recommendations

Download All Unit Materials

• Hi-res (zip, ~197mb)
• Low-res (zip, ~98mb)
• Think Earth Videos (zip, ~103mb)

© Think Earth Environmental Education Foundation. All rights reserved. Permission is granted to teachers and other not-for-profit users to download and use the instructional materials and videos. No portion of the videos or other materials may be copied and used for any commercial purposes.

Key Takeaways:

Teach students how to enjoy nature while preserving its beauty.

Students can interact with the Scholastic News character Norbert Know-It-All to share their understanding of the text and build computing skills.

Upcycle old crayons to make Earth-shaped crayons.

As Earth Day approaches, you might wonder, “How do I teach first graders to care for our planet? After all, we only have one Earth!” I loved the Scholastic News issue for grade 1, “ Take Only Pictures, Leave Only Footprints .” It offered the perfect way to reinforce the importance of being a good friend to the Earth.

Beyond the issue, there are so many awesome resources and ideas for extending the conversation. Here are two engaging Earth Day activities. 

Earth Day Activity One: Write a Letter to Norbert Know-It-All

After reading through our  Scholastic News  Earth Day issue  and discussing the content for understanding, students had the chance to write to Norbert Know-It-All. 

Norbert thinks he knows all the facts from  Scholastic News , but he always gets them wrong. Kids use text evidence from the issue to prove him wrong. 

My kids couldn’t wait to write to Norbert and correct him. This was a great extension to gauge their comprehension of the text and practice handwriting and letter writing.

Not only could my students write Norbert a letter, they could email him, too! To motivate my students to use their best handwriting, proper punctuation and best-guess spelling, I told them ahead of time that they would only be allowed to email Norbert if they tried their very best on the “sloppy copy” with pencil and paper. Of course, it worked!

My students used their copies of  Scholastic News  to find three facts to share with Norbert about the Earth. 

During our computer lab time, they wrote Norbert an email using their sloppy copy to help. While this did take a long time because their typing skills are slow, it was totally worth the effort! This would be a great activity to work on with big buddies who may be more comfortable with the computer. 

It was also the perfect opportunity to teach some basic keyboarding skills.

My students all have their own email addresses, but you can definitely make this a class activity and compose one email together. 

Are you ready for the best part? Norbert wrote back!

I may have squealed equally as loud as the students when the emails started coming back! 

Sadler Science

Transforming Science Education

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Earth’s Place in the Universe: 1-ESS1-1 Sample Lesson

During the summer, I often take a break from planning for the classes that I regularly.  Instead, I often create elementary science lessons that B and I can do over the summer.  Take a look at this sample lesson for 1-ESS1-1, Earth’s Place in the Universe.

What do students need to know for 1-ESS1-1?

The performance expectation for 1-ESS1-1 requires that student use their own observation of the Earth, moon, and sun to find predictable patterns.

This performance expectation includes the Science and Engineering Practice of Analyzing and Interpreting Data.  Rather than giving them data or images, it is best to provide students with a common experience during class.  Students can use these observations to connect to the Crosscutting Concept of Patterns.

Students are only required to make simple observations and recognize simple patterns.  For example, they should recognize that the sun is visible in the sky in the morning, and is not visible at night.  Students should also be able to explain which objects in the sky (sun, moon, and stars) are visible in the sky during the day, and at night.

For more information about this performance expectation, take a look at the evidence statement .

Sample Lesson for 1-ESS1-1

This inquiry-based lesson allows students to indirectly observe the apparent motion of the sun in the sky by observing shadows.  Students will observe and trace their shadow three times per day for three days.  This timeline can be adjusted.  However, this number of observations helps students to see that the pattern is predictable.

I wrote a short narrative of our discussion, which I posted in a previous version of this post.  You can read that here .

You won’t need many materials for this activity.  We used sidewalk chalk and art supplies (paper and markers).

I also had B trace around her feet so that she could step back into the same position each time that we came out to trace her shadow.  This is what it looked like at the end of day 1.

Including Modeling in the Investigation for 1-ESS1-1

I enjoy using the Science and Engineering Practice of Modeling with younger students as often as possible.  Students in early elementary are just starting to learn to write, but they have extensive experience creating art.  Modeling is very similar to the drawings that they do, but non-essential components are left out.

The Science and Engineering Practice (SEP) of Developing and Using Models is not included in the performance expectation for 1-ESS1-1.  Remember, Performance Expectations define how students may be assessed.  However, you can include other SEPs in your activities. 

Including Common Core ELA Standards with 1-ESS1-1

In order to include a writing component and integrate common core ELA standards.  This activity pairs well with W.1.8: with guidance and support from adults, recall information from experiences or gather information from provided sources to answer a question.   

Bundling to Create a More in Depth Lesson Sequence

This activity pairs very well with 1-PS4-3 (Plan and conduct an investigation to determine the effect of placing objects made with different materials in the path of a beam of light).  Students can look in-depth at what types of objects make shadows and which do not.

Get a copy of the activity for your class.

This easy isn’t hard to recreate on your own. Or, you can access this activity in my Teachers Pay Teachers store here .

Please note, the pages pictured in this blog post have been updated to allow for more differentiation options and to help increase standards alignment.

 Want to learn more?

Check out these posts to learn more about elementary science and the NGSS.

• 7 Common Mistakes Teachers Make When Shifting to the NGSS
• Your Questions About 3-Dimensional Learning Answered
• 5 Tips for Making NGSS Bundles

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Erin Sadler

Related posts.

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5 Tips for Teaching NGSS Online

Objectives and Essential Questions in the NGSS Classroom

In Texas, Science isn’t tested until 5th grade. SO, many lower elementary teachers teach science only a few times per week. Funny thing is that the students LOVE science!

I know! And science is such a great way to teach math and ELA. My goal is to make it easier for elementary teachers to teach science in their classroom and have it align with math/ELA standards.

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4th Grade NGSS Science Curriculum Bundle | STEM Experiments Waves Earth Energy

What educators are saying

Description.

Teachers using 4th grade NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards)-- this science curriculum is for you! You'll love the easy-to-follow phenomena-based units focusing on adaptations, senses, speed and energy, light and vision, energy transformations, waves, fossils, maps, natural resources, and natural disasters. You'll also find science interactive notebooks, articles, digital activities, task cards, and more!

These time-saving, quality resources are included:

• 11 full 5E units with step-by-step lessons, labs, example pages, CER, and quizzes
• Teaching slides
• Spiral review
• Notebook templates with photos
• Notebook organization tabs
• Outdoor activities
• Digital Inquiry lessons
• Vocabulary task cards
• Picture Dictionary
• Science articles

See what the year looks like with this free planning guide .

WHO THIS IS FOR

Designed for California, Oregon, Nevada, Washington, Hawaii, New Mexico, Kansas, Arkansas, Illinois, Michigan, Iowa, Kentucky, Washington DC, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

Fully covers the standards in Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Units are phenomena-based and follow the 5E Model. You'll find investigations, original text, video clips, CER examples, models, quizzes, and vocabulary cards.

Seatbelts 4-PS3-1 & 4-PS3-3

Start with your study of energy by learning about speed, energy, and collisions. Investigate how energy transfers during a collision to learn why seatbelts are important.

Solar Ovens 4-PS3-2

Continue your study by exploring how different surfaces and materials absorb heat to learn how we can use the Sun's energy to cook.

Circuits 4-PS3-2 & 4-PS3-4

Learn about electrical energy and how electricity flows in a circuit to power devices.

Secret Codes 4-PS4-1 & 4-PS4-3

Enhance your study of energy by exploring how energy moves in waves and can be used to transmit information.

Pinhole Cameras 4-PS4-2

End your study by exploring how light can be reflected and used by our eyes to see.

LIFE SCIENCE

Adaptations 4-LS1-1

Start with your study of adaptations by learning about structures, functions, and how adaptations help organisms survive in their environment. Investigate how an organism's adaptation is related to the environment in which they live.

Senses 4-LS1-2

Continue your study by exploring how the senses connect to the brain and help organisms survive in their environment. Make connections between the senses and behaviors, explore the sensory pathway, and investigate mimicry.

EARTH SCIENCE

Fossils 4-ESS1-1

Start with your study of fossils and explore how patterns in rocks and fossils in layers are evidence of changes to the Earth. Investigate how the landscape has changed over time using models and explore patterns in rock layers.

Erosion 4-ESS2-1

Continue your study by exploring how wind, water, and ice change Earth's landscape. Make connections between slope and the rate of erosion and investigate weathering.

Mapping Disasters 4-ESS2-2 & 4-ESS3-2

Move into an exploration of maps and natural processes on Earth. Understand how scientists use topographic maps to explore the landscape of Earth, make connections between Earth's geographic features and natural disasters, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis, and design a seismograph to record earthquake vibrations.

Biofuels 4-ESS3-1 

Wrap up the study of Earth with natural resources and their impact on the environment. Identify renewable and nonrenewable resources, research the advantages and disadvantages of biofuels, and design a solar-powered vehicle

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

NOTEBOOK TEMPLATES

All in One Science Interactive Notebook

This file includes foldable activities, cut and paste, sorts, and graphic organizers AND ideas and resources for setting up your science notebook.

TEACHING SLIDES

4th Grade NGSS Teaching Slides

There are 10 detailed slideshows to review, teach, and clarify!

NOTEBOOK TABS

Interactive Science Notebook Organization Tabs

Enhance your student's science notebook experience with easy-to-use organization tabs.

SPIRAL REVIEW

4th Grade NGSS Spiral Review

There are 30 weeks of review-- revisit 4th grade NGSS standards all year long.

Digital Choice Menus

Advanced students work on guided Google Slides activities to dive deeper into a topic.

OUTDOOR SCIENCE

Out the Door to Explore: Full STEAM Ahead

35 science activities that can be done outside or by using natural materials inside

PICTURE DICTIONARY

NGSS Picture Dictionary

Explicitly teaching 4th grade science content vocabulary just got simpler! Instead of looking for examples, images, and definitions on your own, the work is done for you for 121 key terms.

DIGITAL INQUIRY

There are 17 relevant Digital Inquiry activities included. All DI activities relevant to 4th grade NGSS are here. Students individually collect information from 5 different online sources then combine that information to answer a question. Each activity has 3 differentiation options.

VOCABULARY TASK CARDS

Relevant Science Vocabulary task cards sets are included in this bundle, including Energy Forms, Adaptations, Natural Resources, Circuits, Slow Changes, Fossil Fuels, Waves, Speed, Human Body, Sensory Processing, Waves & Information, Reflection & Vision, and Maps & Natural Processes.

5 NGSS-relevant stations sets are included: Adaptations, Erosion, Energy, Natural Resources, and Force.

Articles for relevant topics are included. Each 2-page article includes high-quality authentic text about a science topic and 11 questions. Integrate science and reading in a way that builds knowledge AND helps students practice their comprehension skills.

Relevant sorting relay games are included.

Assess quickly with print-and-go exit tickets .

GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS

Sometimes you just need a quick graphic organizer to explain a science concept!

Review with flipbooks for topics related to NGSS.

TOOLS AND MEASUREMENT

Measurement Observation Stations

Science Measurement Mini-Charts

Science Tools Lockbox

Intro to Science Slides and Notes

Science Measurement Task Cards

Big Money Words

These posters with important science terms and definitions can be referenced all year!

END OF YEAR

Science Favorites Flipbook

This flipbook is easy to assemble and fun to create with students at the end of the year.

_______________________________________________ Teachers Love It!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Just purchased this school year so we have only used a couple of units so far, but WOW! I love all of the resources and will be so engaging to use. The CER activities (this was new for me) and lessons provide the right amount of rigor. The notebooks and vocabulary are very engaging for my learners. I highly recommend this product. There is a lot to sort through, but you never run out of activities and my gifted students are always challenged by the digital inquiry projects! - Ginger M. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ My students have loved using this resource! It incorporates reading and writing perfectly within the science standards. The science stations are engaging and fun. Thank you for a wonderful resource to teach science. - Cynthia S. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This has been an absolute lifesaver in my science classroom. I love all of the resources, and they will be so engaging to use. The CER activities and lessons provide the right amount of rigor. The notebooks and vocabulary are very engaging for my learners. I highly recommend this product. There is a lot to sort through, but once you do you will be happy you made this purchase! - David E.

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Product Notes

1. Please purchase multiple licenses at a discounted price if this is for more than one teacher. Thank you!

2. This file is not editable.

3. Please purchase the 4th Grade Science TEKS Bundle if in Texas .

4. State Alignment

Fully covers the standards in Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Covers all but 1 4th-grade standard in Louisiana. Similar to Utah and Massachusetts.

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