### Lesson Plan: "Objects That Sink in Water" - Nature Study for Toddlers
#### Objective:
- To introduce toddlers to the concept of sinking and floating in water using everyday objects and natural materials.
- To develop sensory exploration, observational skills, and basic scientific understanding.
#### Duration:
- 30 minutes
#### Materials Needed:
- A large, clear plastic basin or tub filled with water
- A variety of small objects including:
- Wooden block
- Metal spoon
- Plastic toy
- Small stone
- Leaf
- Cork
- Paper clip
- Small rubber ball
- Towels or a waterproof mat to manage spills
- A chart with pictures of objects used
#### Setup:
1. Set up a safe, waterproof area for the activity, preferably outdoors or in a space where water spills won't be an issue.
2. Place the filled water basin on a low table accessible to toddlers.
3. Arrange all objects nearby in a basket or tray.
4. Lay out towels or a waterproof mat around the workspace.
#### Introduction (5 minutes):
1. Gather the toddlers around the water basin.
2. Show them the water and ask if they've ever played with water before.
3. Briefly introduce the concept of sinking and floating. For example, "Some things sink to the bottom of the water, and some things stay on top."
#### Activity (20 minutes):
1. **Demonstration:**
- Select an object like the wooden block. Ask the toddlers, "Do you think this will sink or float?"
- Place the wooden block in the water and observe. Explain what happens in simple terms: "The wooden block is floating because it stays on top."
2. **Hands-On Exploration:**
- Encourage each toddler to choose an object and predict whether it will sink or float.
- Allow them to place their object in the water and observe the results.
- Assist them as needed and reinforce learning by naming the objects and describing what’s happening.
3. **Repeat the Process:**
- Continue with each object, ensuring every toddler gets a turn.
- Praise them for their observations and predictions, focusing on engagement and enjoyment rather than right or wrong answers.
4. **Discussion:**
- After all objects have been tested, discuss the observations. Ask questions like: "Which objects sank to the bottom?" "Which ones floated?" “What do you notice about the ones that float or sink?”
#### Conclusion (5 minutes):
1. Gather the toddlers for a wrap-up.
2. Recap what they observed about sinking and floating.
3. Sing a related song, such as “Row, Row, Row Your Boat,” emphasizing the floating aspect.
4. Encourage them to try this activity again at home with their parents, using safe objects.
#### Clean-Up:
- Involve the toddlers in helping to clean up the materials and water spills.
- Ensure every child dries their hands and the area is left tidy.
#### Extension Activities:
- Read a story related to water, such as "Who Sank the Boat?" by Pamela Allen.
- Create a simple chart or drawing together showing which objects floated and which sank.
#### Assessment:
- Observe the toddlers’ engagement and understanding during the activity.
- Take note of their predictions and whether they show curiosity or excitement about the outcomes.
This playful and interactive lesson plan introduces toddlers to basic physics concepts through sensory exploration, making it a fun and foundational science activity.