Related phenomena are powerful tools for helping students connect classroom science to their own lives. When students say, “Hey, this reminds me of…,” that’s a moment worth capturing. Whether it’s a drawing, a question, a story from home, these connections build ownership and deepen understanding. The key? Make your related phenomena chart a living part of your classroom—not just a poster on the wall.

1. Mix It Up with Multimedia – Encourage students to share related phenomena in whatever way works for them—photos, drawings, even objects from home. Use these to populate your chart and show students their ideas matter. Bonus: it builds classroom community and helps students connect with each other through shared wonder.
2. Bring Families into the Fun – Get students talking science at home by inviting them to ask a family member about something puzzling or cool they’ve noticed in class, or that they have figured out in class. You might even discover some amazing related phenomena through a parent, grandparent, or sibling’s story or question.
3. Keep It Growing – Don’t stop at Lesson 1. Add to your related phenomena chart throughout the unit. Students will naturally make connections during investigations and discussions—make it easy for them (and you) to capture those ideas. This helps students see science as something that builds and connects over time.
4. Use It to Think, Not Just Collect – Revisit the chart at the start or end of class. Choose a related phenomenon and ask students to explain it using what they’ve figured out—or to identify what they still need to know. It’s a great way to tie learning together or spark new questions that push the storyline forward.