Level 1
Indicate one observed fall feature.
2026–27 • Plants & seasons
Fall Nature Investigation
Look for changing leaves, seeds and other signs of fall.
Classroom lesson: Fall Nature InvestigationToday I can…
show one sign of fall
Words to know
Words for this lesson
LEAFSEEDCOLORFALLCHANGE
Follow along
What we will do
- 1
Choose a way
Choose the accessible walk or indoor pictures.
- 2
Look at leaves
Find a green leaf or a changed leaf.
- 3
Look for seeds
Point to a seed picture or a safe example held by an adult.
- 4
Compare
Show something that is the same or different.
- 5
Share a sign
Point, use AAC or tell one sign of fall.
Speech, sign, point, eye gaze, or AAC
Tell us what you need
LOOKLEAFSEEDSAMEDIFFERENT
Teacher & para guideMaterials, learning objectives, access, and safety
Materials
- Fall photographs and visual checklist
- Magnifiers, clipboards and safe collection tray
- Weather-appropriate gear and an accessible route; indoor photographs as an alternative
- AAC choices and visual boundaries
Safety first
Preview an accessible route and weather conditions. Adults screen fallen items. Do not touch or taste unknown berries, mushrooms or plants. No forced touch; follow environmental allergy, mobility and supervision plans.
Follow each student's IEP, health, feeding, allergy, behavior, and mobility plans.
Individual learning objectives
Choose Level 1, 2 or 3 individually in either House group. A House is not an ability level. Watching, directing and communicating a boundary are valid participation.
Level 2
Identify or match two seasonal observations.
Level 3
Record two observations and connect them to seasonal plant change.
Skill focus: Seasonal observation, comparison, recording evidence, communication
30-minute teaching sequence
Introduce · 5 min
5 minutes: Compare green and fall-colored leaves. Ask what changed and preview boundaries.
I do · 10 min
10 minutes: Model looking, listening and recording one observation without picking an unknown plant.
We do · 10 min
10 minutes: Stop at three or four accessible observation points, or use indoor photos. Notice leaf color, fallen leaves, seeds and plant stages. Record what is actually observed. Optional fall leaf luminary: arrange screened leaves or paper leaf shapes on a shatter-resistant translucent container using approved adhesive. An adult places a flameless LED light inside. No flames or exposed button batteries; avoid overheating and keep battery compartments secured.
Exit choice · 5 min
5 minutes: Share one sign of fall or explain two observations.
Science note: Seasonal signs vary by plant and local conditions. Use evidence rather than requiring every expected sign.
Curriculum connection: NGSS 2-LS4-1 and 3-LS1-1 connections.
Prepare for this learner
Select a level for each learner in either House group. Offer one-step cues, AAC, gaze, signs, speech or partner-assisted scanning. Use the learner’s established vision and access plan; high contrast is an option, not a universal CVI prescription. Respect refusal, watch-only and breaks.
Lower-staffing option: Use a seated photo investigation with three prepared images.
Record the response, access method, opportunities and support used. Record observed, declined or not assessed separately; a communicated refusal is not a failure of participation.
Word lesson plan
Editable classroom source plan. Source files may retain earlier titles. Use the individual level choices and safety guidance above when preparing the session.
Access supports
Communication Model five core words; accept speech, AAC, eye gaze, gestures, object choices, signs, and partner-assisted scanning.
Sensory Present one material at a time. Offer tools, gloves, observe-only, a scent-free choice, and a quiet break.
Motor Stabilize containers, pre-loosen parts, use adapted grips, and offer seated, standing, partner, or directing roles.
Learning Show the finished result, model first, use short visual steps, repeat, and record the least support needed.