Natural Resources for Kids

Do your students understand the difference between renewable and nonrenewable resources? Simply put, renewable resources are substances that come from the Earth that are easily replenished, such as power generated from wind and water. On the other hand, nonrenewable resources are not replenished at a fast enough rate. If your students are learning to categorize natural resources, Teach Starter has a cut-and-paste worksheet ready for you to use in your classroom.  

With this worksheet, students will look at 12 different pictures and written scenarios and determine if each is an example of a renewable or nonrenewable resource. Students will cut, sort, and paste each of the squares onto the provided recording sheet.

An answer key is included with your download to make grading fast and easy!  

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

If there are students who finish the activity early, encourage them to list additional renewable and nonrenewable resources on the back of their worksheets.

For students who need assistance with the concepts, encourage them to complete the activity with a peer tutor or with a small group of students. Discuss with students why each example is a renewable or nonrenewable resource.

🖨️ Easily Download & Print

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or editable Google Slides version of this resource. 

Because this resource includes an answer sheet, we recommend you print one copy of the entire file. Then, make photocopies of the blank worksheet for students to complete. 

Turn this teaching resource into a sustainable activity by printing on cardstock and slipping it into a dry-erase sleeve. Students can record their answers with a whiteboard marker, then 

This resource was created by Kaylyn Chupp, a teacher in Florida and Teach Starter Collaborator. 

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities to shorten your lesson planning time:  

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