Back to School Science for 1st & 2nd Grade

The first week of school is full of routines, read-alouds, and getting-to-know-you games. But when it comes to planning your back to school science block, you might find yourself staring at your planner wondering, What exactly do I teach right now?

You’re not alone.

Science often feels like the subject we want to teach more of, but aren’t always sure how to begin—especially during those first few weeks when everything else feels more urgent.

The good news? When you start science with the right activities, you’re not just filling time. You’re laying a foundation that helps students think, ask questions, and feel confident exploring all year long.

Let’s look at a simple, step-by-step plan to kick off your back to school science lessons with ease.

Start with the Question “What Is a Scientist?”

Before diving into standards like weather or habitats, take a step back and introduce the idea that your students are scientists.

This helps build a science identity from the start. Scientists are not just adults in lab coats. They’re curious learners who explore, observe, and try to figure things out — just like your students do every day.

First, start with this big-picture question helps students see themselves in the subject. It will also set a positive tone for your science block moving forward.

Make It Personal with a “Science About Me” Activity

During the first week of school, students are already sharing information about themselves in other subjects — why not do the same in science?

In this Science About Me activity, students will answer:

I’d like to observe…
I’d like to learn about…
One question I have is..
I am ___ so I will be a great scientist.

This helps them connect their own interests and thinking habits to scientific practices. It’s a gentle entry point into the subject and a great way to show that science is for everyone.

Break Stereotypes with “What Does a Scientist Look Like?”

This is a great back to school science activity that blends science and social-emotional learning.

Invite students to draw themselves as scientists. As they reflect on what scientists actually do and look like, they begin to internalize the idea that scientists can be people just like them.

You can also create a class display or bulletin board titled “We Are Scientists.” It adds to your classroom environment while reinforcing an inclusive message about who can do science.

Introduce the Scientific Method (In Simple Steps)

You don’t need fancy experiments right away. In fact, the best way to introduce the scientific method early on is with simple visuals and everyday examples.

Use kid-friendly posters and activities to introduce the steps:

Ask a question
Make a hypothesis
Experiment
Record data
Draw conclusions
Share your findings

By building this understanding early, your students will feel much more prepared and confident when hands-on investigations start later in the year.

Set the Tone for a Year of Science

The goal of your back to school science is to build curiosity, confidence, and a sense of purpose.

When students begin the year thinking, I am a scientist, they approach each new topic with a sense of ownership and excitement. That mindset shift can carry them through the entire school year.