In first grade, students investigate light and sound, including vibration from sound waves and the effect of different materials on the path of a beam of light. Students use their understanding of light from the Light & Sound unit to understand why the sun, moon, and stars are visible. Students will explore the sequential nature of computer programs through hands-on activities both with and without a computer. The final unit focuses on animals and includes exploration of animal life cycles and survival needs. The concept of variation is introduced by learning that young animals are similar to but not exactly like their parents and that the needs of young animals are sometimes different that those of adults. Students will also explore the design concept of biomimicry - in which structures found in nature are used to design solutions to human problems.