My Little Ecosystem

Creating tiny ecosystems fosters understanding of plant life and care routines.

• Framework: EYFS
• Unit: EYFS Environment
• Learning area: Physical Development and Motor Skills
• Level: EYFS Reception

Objectives

• Explore simple life systems (plant + water)
• Use containers for play
• Recognise living vs. non-living

Materials

• Clear jars or bottles
• Leaves
• Water
• Small rocks

Instructions

Guide children to place items in a jar with water. Discuss what each piece represents.

Educator tip

Keep the ecosystem visible in the classroom for observation.

Assessment

Assess against Early Learning Goals (ELGs). Document evidence of 'expected' or 'exceeding' descriptors. Note: independent application of skills, ability to explain reasoning, and capacity to build on prior learning. Observe participation and recognition of life elements.

More from EYFS Environment

• The People in My Neighborhood
• Making a Noise Like a....?
• Save Our Earth in a Bag
• Throwing in Nature
• What Shapes Do You See?
• Our Earth Makes Noise
• Building in Our World
• Creating Noise