Living in California, I never really experienced a true winter wonderland. Sure, it got a bit chilly sometimes, but snow was a distant dream for me and my students. Then, this year, everything changed! I moved to Indiana, and this fall, I witnessed my first snowfall. It was like something out of a storybook! Tiny, delicate snowflakes drifted down from the sky, blanketing the world in a pristine white coat.

Luckily, I have two great resources on Teachers Pay Teachers (TpT) that are perfect for engaging young scientists in the wonder of snowflakes!

2nd Grade- Snowflakes: Nonfiction Science Reading and Writing ELA

This resource is a jam-packed winter science unit that includes multiple activities, worksheets, and graphic organizers, all designed to help students learn about snowflakes.

Guided Reading Nonfiction Book Level C with Guide & Running Records: SNOWFLAKE

This resource provides a beautifully illustrated nonfiction reader all about snowflakes. It's geared towards level C readers, and includes a handy guide with running records to assess student comprehension.

These resources are a great way to introduce students to the following fascinating facts about snowflakes:

• No two snowflakes are alike! Each snowflake is formed under unique conditions, resulting in an infinite variety of shapes and sizes.

• Snowflakes start out as tiny water droplets. As these droplets freeze in the clouds, they crystallize and branch out, forming the intricate snowflake shapes we know and love.

• The temperature and humidity in the clouds affect the shape of snowflakes. Colder temperatures create simpler snowflake shapes, while warmer temperatures can result in more complex and beautiful designs.

Here are some additional ideas for incorporating these TpT resources and your own experiences into a fun and engaging snowflake unit:

• Have a snowflake catching contest! Bundle up your students and head outside on a snowy day. See who can catch the most snowflakes on their mittens or coats. Bring the snowflakes back inside and use magnifying glasses to examine them closely.

• Try making your own snowflakes! There are many different ways to make paper snowflakes. You can use scissors or snowflake templates to create beautiful six-sided wonders.

• Write a snow poem! After reading about snowflakes, have students brainstorm words and phrases that describe snowflakes. Then, use those words to create a beautiful winter poem.

Snowflakes are a true marvel of nature, providing a perfect opportunity to teach students about science in a fun and engaging way. With the help of these TpT resources and a little creativity, you can bring the magic of snowflakes to your classroom this winter!

Additional Tips:

• If you live in an area that doesn't get snow, you can show your students pictures and videos of snowflakes.

• You can also bring in some fake snow for students to explore.

• Be sure to dress warmly for any outdoor activities!