Science Lesson Plan · Grades 3–5
Winter Season Lesson
A science reading passage and comprehension questions about winter — including the winter solstice, why days are shorter, and how winter varies by hemisphere.
Subject
Science
Grades
Grades 3–5
Skill Focus
Reading comprehension, seasons, winter solstice, earth science
Lesson Length
30–45 minutes
Lesson Overview
About This Lesson
Students read a passage about winter as a season, then answer ten true/false and multiple-choice comprehension questions that test their understanding of the science behind winter.
The passage covers: the winter solstice; why the northern and southern hemispheres have opposite seasons; why winter days get dark earlier; and common winter traditions.
Questions include true/false, multiple-choice, and one open-ended response. An answer key is included.
How to Use This Lesson
Distribute the reading passage (page 1). Have students read silently or as a class.
Assign the comprehension questions (pages 2–3) independently or in pairs.
Review answers using the answer key (page 4). Clarify the concept of the solstice and why Earth’s tilt causes seasons.
Extension: Have students research what winter is like in the southern hemisphere and compare it to winter in North America.
Printable Resource
A classroom-ready PDF with everything in one printable resource.
Full Member Resource · Printable PDF · 4 pages
Winter Season Printable Worksheet
Download a classroom-ready winter season reading comprehension worksheet with answer key.