Animals Are Living Things

Classification is fundamental to scientific thinking and builds vocabulary for describing the natural world.

• Framework: IPC
• Unit: Pets
• Learning area: Science
• Level: Infant & Toddler, IPC Level 1, IPC Level 2, IPC Level 3

Objectives

• Collect and describe information about animals
• Develop awareness that animals are living things
• Classify animals and non-living objects

Materials

• Animal picture cards
• Object picture cards (toys, furniture, food)
• Book: 'My Big Animal Book' by Roger Priddy
• Sorting hoops or mats

Instructions

Begin by reading 'My Big Animal Book' by Roger Priddy, pausing to discuss the characteristics of living things: they need food, water, air, and shelter; they grow; they can have babies. Guide discussion about what makes animals different from toys or furniture, encouraging children to articulate their thinking. Provide picture cards featuring both animals and non-living objects, then organize children into small groups for classification activities. Each group receives sorting hoops or mats labeled 'Living' and 'Non-Living' and a collection of cards to sort. Circulate among groups, asking children to explain their reasoning for each placement. Reconvene as a whole group to share findings and address any misconceptions, celebrating children's developing scientific thinking.

Educator tip

Include some tricky items like a stuffed animal or a photo of an animal to spark discussion.

Assessment

Observe students' ability to listen attentively and distinguish animals from non-living objects with increasing accuracy.

More from Pets

• Baby Animals and Parents
• What Do Animals Eat?
• Kinds of Animals
• Counting Dog Bones
• Pet Shapes Exploration
• Pet Patterns
• Pet Families in Order
• My Perfect Pet