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| K–5 Snowflake Science Mini Unit |
K–5 Snowflake Science Mini Unit Lesson Plan
Unit Title
Snowflake Science: Exploring Symmetry and States of Matter
Grade Levels
Kindergarten–5th Grade (easily differentiated)
Unit Length
3–5 days (30–60 minutes per lesson)
Unit Overview
This winter-themed science mini unit uses snowflakes to help students explore symmetry, states of matter, and physical changes. Through hands-on experiments, art integration, and observation activities, students build foundational science skills while engaging their curiosity.
This unit is ideal for elementary classrooms, homeschool families, co-ops, and winter science studies.
Essential Questions
What is a snowflake?
Why are snowflakes symmetrical?
How does water change states of matter?
Can two snowflakes ever be exactly the same?
Key Science Concepts
States of matter: solid, liquid, gas
Freezing and melting
Deposition (introductory for upper grades)
Symmetry and patterns
Scientific observation
Vocabulary (Adjust by Grade Level)
Snowflake
Symmetry
Pattern
Solid
Liquid
Gas
Freeze
Melt
Ice crystal
Water vapor
Deposition (Grades 3–5)
Lesson 1: What Is a Snowflake?
Focus: Introduction to snowflakes and symmetry
Objectives
Identify basic snowflake features
Understand that snowflakes have repeating patterns
Recognize symmetry visually
Activities
Observe real snowflakes (if available) or photos under magnification
Read a snowflake-themed nonfiction picture book
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| Snow by Uri Shulevitz is available here. |
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| Curious About Snow by Gina Shaw is available here. |
Discuss why snowflakes look similar but not identical
Differentiation
K–1: Identify shapes and repeating patterns
2–3: Count sides and locate lines of symmetry
4–5: Compare snowflake structures and record observations
Lesson 2: Snowflake Symmetry Lab
Focus: Geometry and symmetry
Objectives
Identify lines of symmetry
Create symmetrical designs
Activities
Fold-and-cut paper snowflakes
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| This 1-2-3 Fold and Cut Paper Snowflake Book is available here. |
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| This Snowflake Cut Out Paper Book is available here. |
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| 100 Cut-Out Snowflake Designs by Susan Sturgill is available here. |
Draw and label lines of symmetry
Compare designs with peers
Extension (Grades 3–5)
Use mirrors to test symmetry
Introduce six-fold radial symmetry
Lesson 3: States of Matter and Snowflakes
Focus: Solid, liquid, and gas
Objectives
Identify the three states of matter
Observe physical changes
Activities
Record changes over time
Discuss what causes matter to change states
Key Discussion Questions
What state of matter is ice?
What happens when it warms?
Can water change back again?
Lesson 4: How Snowflakes Form
Focus: Weather science and physical changes
Objectives
Understand how snowflakes form in clouds
Learn how temperature affects matter
Activities
Teacher-led explanation with diagrams
Cotton-ball cloud model demonstration
Optional crystal-growing experiment (with adult supervision)
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| 10 Magical Crystal Growing Experiments for Kids is available here. |
Upper Grade Extension
Introduce deposition as gas → solid
Compare freezing vs. deposition
Lesson 5: Snowflake Science Integration Day
Focus: Cross-curricular application
Activities (Choose 2–3)
Science Journal: Draw a snowflake
Writing: “If I Were a Snowflake…”
Math: Count symmetry lines or fractions of a snowflake
Art: Snowflake watercolor resist or collage
Assessment Options
Formative
Observation checklists
Science journal entries
Class discussions
Summative (Choose One)
Snowflake mini poster
Oral explanation of states of matter
Snowflake science foldable
Materials Needed
Ice cubes - Try these large ice cube trays!
Markers or crayons
Optional: magnifying glasses, mirrors
Family & Homeschool Extension Ideas
Observe frost patterns outdoors
Watch a short snowflake formation video
Create snowflakes from household materials
Standards Alignment (General)
NGSS: Physical Science (Matter and Its Interactions)
Math: Geometry and symmetry
ELA: Informational text and writing
Art: Pattern and design
Teacher Notes
This mini unit is designed to be flexible. Lessons can be taught independently or as a full unit, making it ideal for winter learning, weather units, or seasonal enrichment.
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| K–5 Snowflake Science Mini Unit Lesson Plan |
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