Living or Non-living

A science-based game that teaches how to distinguish between living and non-living things, while improving observation and reasoning skills. Children walk around the garden to explore their surroundings, think about objects, and share what they have learned. During the game, it is emphasized that plants are also living things, and that non-living things are very important for the survival of living things. For example, a stone is non-living, but by being part of the soil’s structure, it helps plants grow. In this way, children learn both the difference between living and non-living things and the relationships between them.

Objective of the Activity

To improve the ability to distinguish between living and non-living things,

To enhance observation and cause–effect reasoning skills,

To understand the relationship between living and non-living things,

To strengthen love for nature and environmental awareness.

The Game

Before the game starts, the teacher gives the children a brief explanation about what living and non-living things are. Examples are provided: humans, animals, and plants are living; objects like stones, water, and air are non-living. However, non-living things are also very important for the survival of living things.

Children walk around the garden and choose two objects. One may be living (for example: a flower) and the other non-living (for example: a stone). After making their selections, they come to the teacher.

The teacher asks, “Is this living or non-living?” The child answers and explains the reason. For example: “This flower is living because it grows and needs water. This stone is non-living, but as part of the soil, it supports plants.”

After all students have presented their objects, the teacher concludes the game with a general evaluation.

Rules:

Each child must choose two different objects from the garden.

Objects should be examined respectfully without causing harm to nature.

When answering, an explanation of “why” must always be given.

Every item examined must be returned exactly to where it was found.

Attention!

The play area should be free of sharp, pointed, or harmful objects that could cause injury to children.

Living things (especially plants) should not be picked or damaged during observation; they must be examined without causing harm.