Year 1 Science: Seasonal Changes – Explore Weather, Daylight and the Seasons

Introduce pupils to the changing seasons with our Year 1 Seasonal Changes science unit, part of the Scintillating Science programme. Designed to meet the KS1 science curriculum, this engaging unit helps children observe and describe seasonal weather patterns and understand how daylight changes throughout the year.

Through hands-on science investigations, weather observations, and data recording, children will build early scientific enquiry skills while developing an understanding of the world around them. Perfect for autumn term, this unit builds on early science experiences from Reception and sets the foundation for further science learning in Key Stage 1.

What’s included?

Everything you need to deliver effective Year 1 science lessons on seasonal changes:

• Interactive animated slides for whole-class input
• Differentiated Year 1 seasonal changes worksheets
• Knowledge organisers with key weather and seasons vocabulary
• Practical activities for observing and recording weather
• Age-appropriate assessments to track pupil progress

Developing scientific enquiry

This unit encourages children to ask questions and find answers through observation and exploration. Pupils will:

• Observe and describe daily and seasonal weather patterns
• Use simple equipment to measure and record data
• Track changes in daylight across the year
• Gather data to produce their own weather report

Key learning outcomes

By the end of the unit, children will be able to:

• Identify and describe weather linked to each season
• Observe how day length varies throughout the year
• Use observations to answer simple scientific questions
• Record weather data using tables, charts, and drawings

Lesson structure

Each lesson follows a clear and supportive structure:

• Whole-class input – key concepts introduced through interactive slides
• Guided activities – practical investigations and weather observations
• Independent tasks – differentiated challenges for all learners
• Discussion and reflection – pupils share ideas and findings

Observing and recording seasonal weather

Throughout this unit, children will:

• Use tools like rain gauges and thermometers
• Keep a weather diary across several weeks
• Compare weather conditions over time
• Describe patterns and changes linked to seasons

Differentiation and assessment

Activities are differentiated using a clear three-star system:

• ⭐ One star – for pupils working below age-related expectations
• ⭐⭐ Two stars – for pupils working at the expected level
• ⭐⭐⭐ Three stars – for pupils working above the expected level

Assessment is built into the unit through observation checklists, questioning prompts, and a final pupil-led weather report.

Why choose our Year 1 seasonal changes resources?

• Aligned with the National Curriculum for KS1 science
• Visually engaging and age-appropriate materials
• Ready-to-use seasonal changes lesson plans and worksheets
• Encourages observation, discussion, and data collection
• Ideal for introducing scientific enquiry in Year 1

Start teaching seasonal changes today

Transform your Year 1 science lessons with our structured, engaging, and practical weather and seasons unit. Free trial available.