Guided lesson notes for 2nd grade science on NGSS 2-PS1-3. Students fill blanks from an eight-word bank (apart, build, count, different, new, number, pieces, same) while the class builds an object, takes it apart, and makes something new from the same pieces. Three write-in prompts ask for notes on each build. The four pages end with an answer key that includes model notes, such as a 12-piece tower that becomes a robot.
2-PS1-3
“Make observations to construct an evidence-based account of how an object made of a small set of pieces can be disassembled and made into a new object.”
Students count pieces in Our First Object, take the build apart, and in The Big Discovery use the unchanged number of pieces as evidence that the new object uses the same set.
Two blanks set up the idea that many objects are made from a small set of pieces, and that putting them together lets us build something.
Students count their parts before they build, then write what they built first and how many pieces it has.
Blanks cover taking the object apart and keeping the same parts in a safe pile so none get lost.
Students record that the new object is different but the pieces are the same. They then describe how the new build looks different from the first one.
A rule sentence and a check on the final number of pieces close the notes. The last prompt asks for the most important thing students learned.
With building blocks
Hand each pair a bag of blocks before you start. The notes assume students count real pieces, so they only work with something in their hands.
Guided notes
Read each bullet aloud as you model at the front. Pause at the counting step so every pair writes down a number before anyone takes a build apart.
Closing circle
Use the last In your own words prompt to close the lesson. Ask two students to compare their piece counts from the start and the end.
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