Below are printable science packets for K–5 classroom and homeschool learners. These packets support Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Washington State Science Learning Standards, and were created in partnership with the environmental organization in Thurston ECO Network.
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) and water-themed activities for all ages. Definitely try these at home or your favorite outdoor space!
Get out, get local and explore some of our favorite outdoor spaces! Print a scavenger hunt then head out to the East Bay Public Plaza, Deschutes Valley Park or Hawks Prairie Reclaimed Water Ponds.
What will you discover?
What makes you curious about the world around you? How often do you ask questions? You’re thinking like a scientist! Make observations, try an experiment and use your scientific tools!
This week, we are all scientists.
Draw yourself as a scientist.
Pause to take an up-close look at the tiniest of creatures. Explore pond life, search for insects in your neighborhood or create a miniature habitat.
There’s a tiny world out there!
What can you find in one square foot?
How is it possible that the water on Earth today is the water from millions of years ago? The water cycle, that’s how. Go back in time to see how Earth’s animals have changed, while water has stayed the same.
Create a timeline of Earth’s major events.
You can be a Super Science Sleuth anywhere, anytime. A sleuth is a detective! All it takes is the power of a question. Are there patterns in nature? Will you be able to decode the message?
What else might you uncover?
Look for patterns in nature.
Humans use five senses to observe our world. Dive into the world of sight, sound, hearing, touch and taste. Create visual illusions, try a taste test and listen to a water xylophone.
Experience water in five ways.
Pull out your art supplies, because we’re about to get ARTrageous. Using supplies in your home and a little creativity, you can create a masterpiece. Share photos with us so we can admire your creations too!
Create an Andy Goldsworthy masterpiece.
Earth is called the blue planet for a reason. But how much of the world’s water is clean and fresh? With simple science experiments, you can find out. Plus you’ll discover more about how you can protect water, one of our most precious resources.
If all the world’s water could fit in a bucket.
Embrace your curiosity for the outdoors and prepare to use all of your senses. You’ll be exploring the amazing ecosystem right outside your door. What do you think you might see?
Be an outdoor explorer to see what you can find and hear.
With green and blue design, we can build a beautiful world for not only humans but also plants, bugs and birds. The whole ecosystem! Dig into the big ideas of sustainable design and become an engineer that builds for all of Earth.
Go on a green design scavenger hunt.
Southern Resident orcas love Chinook salmon almost as much as we love orcas! Orcas of the Salish Sea are important to our ecosystem, but face many challenges from human disruption.
Show off your orca knowledge.
Bees, butterflies, birds, bats and beetles all play an important role in pollination. Did you know 75% of all plants need pollinators? Get to know some amazing pollinators with our activities!
Take a walk around your neighborhood to find pollinators.
