MODULE 1 — Habitats & Needs of Living Things

In this first module of Zoobitat’s free STEM and NGSS-aligned K–5 curriculum, students explore what all living things need to survive — food, water, and shelter — and discover how habitats provide these essentials.

Through engaging lesson plans, hands-on activities, and printable resources, children (ages 4–10) learn the difference between living and nonliving things, investigate a variety of habitats (forest, desert, grassland, ocean, freshwater, etc.), and identify the animals and plants that call each home.

This module also introduces early conservation principles, teaching students to respect animal habitats with the simple motto: “Look, Listen, but Leave things where they belong.”

By the end of Module 1, learners will be able to explain the basic needs of plants and animals and give examples of who lives in different environments — building a foundation for future science learning and wildlife conservation awareness.

Teachers’ Curriculum — Module 1:

Please see Teacher’s Guide for suggested order of activities and videos.

TEACHER’S GUIDE:

PRINTABLE ACTIVITIES & DOCUMENTS:

VIDEOS:

What is a Habitat?

Explore Your Backyard

Needs of Living Things