Weather Activities for Early Years

Are you looking for a hands-on activity to help your students distinguish between different types of weather? While there are many different types of weather, young learners often begin by differentiating between weather types such as sunny, cloudy, rainy and snowy weather. Teach Starter has created a sorting activity with 24 cards featuring high-quality photographs to help your students identify different types of weather.

Individually or in small groups, students will sort the weather images under the corresponding weather name. Once there are 6 cards for each weather category, answers can be checked using the answer keys provided.

This activity is designed to help students see realistic images of different weather patterns so they can sort them into appropriate categories.

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource to support your science lessons. 

In addition to individual student work time, use this sorting activity to enhance learning through science centers or whole class lessons.

If you have a mixture of above and below-level learners, check out these suggestions for keeping students on track with the concepts: 

🆘 Support Struggling Students

To scaffold for students, instead of sorting between four weather categories at the same time switch it to two and then build towards all four.

➕ Challenge Fast Finishers

In the provided blank headers, teachers can extend this resource by adding the names of seasons and having students sort the images into that category.

🖼️ Gallery Walk (Scoot Activity)

Hang all of the cards around the room. Assign students or pairs to a task card to start, and have them identify the type of weather they see. When you say ‘Scoot’ students will rotate through the cards until they have completed each one. Lead the class in a discussion, or divide students into groups to share the information they collected and the evidence they examined. 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. An answer key is also included with this download. 

Print on thick card for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

This resource was created by Lauren Borst, a Teach Starter Collaborator.