Pre-Kindergarten: People, Nature, and Machines
Students explore foundational concepts that prepare them to understand artificial intelligence throughout their educational journey.
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- Pre-Kindergarten: People, Nature, and Machines
Age:
People, Nature, and Machines
Approximate Total Time: 2 class periods (approximately 25–30 minutes each)
Recommended for Ages 4–5 (typically U.S. Pre-K)
About This Unit
In this introductory unit, students explore foundational ideas that will prepare them to understand artificial intelligence. They begin by distinguishing between things found in nature and things created by people, and learn that the word 'artificial' describes something made by humans, including toys, computers, and machines.
Students then explore what it means to be intelligent. Through discussion, movement, songs, and sensory activities, students learn that humans use their brains and senses to gather information, learn, solve problems, and understand the world. Together, the lessons establish the foundational understanding that people are intelligent living beings and that machines are artificial objects designed and made by humans.
Lessons
1. Artificial and Natural
Students explore the difference between things found in nature and things made by people, and learn that artificial means are made by humans.
2. All About Intelligence
Students explore what it means to be intelligent and learn how people use their brains and senses to gather information, learn, and solve problems.