Resources on Early Learning

Illinois Early Learning Standards

Click on the underlined Benchmark below each Learning Standard to find activities or background information related to helping children reach the Benchmark.

STATE GOAL 11:
Understand the processes of scientific inquiry and technological design to investigate questions, conduct experiments and solve problems.

Learning Standard A:
Know and apply the concepts, principles and processes of scientific inquiry.

Benchmarks

11.A.ECaUse senses to explore and observe materials and natural phenomena.

11.A.ECbCollect, describe and record information.

Learning Standard B:
Know and apply the concepts, principles and processes of technological design.

Benchmark

11.B.ECaUse scientific tools such as thermometers, balance scales and magnifying glasses for investigation.

11.B.ECbBecome familiar with the use of devices incorporating technology.

STATE GOAL 12:
Understand the fundamental concepts, principles and interconnections of the life, physical and earth/space sciences.

Learning Standard A:
Know and apply concepts that explain how living things function, adapt and change.

Benchmarks

12.A.ECaInvestigate and categorize living things in the environment.

12.A.ECbShow an awareness of changes that occur in themselves and their environment.

Learning Standard B:
Know and apply concepts that describe how living things interact with each other and with their environment.

Benchmark

12.B.ECDescribe and compare basic needs of living things.

Learning Standard C:
Know and apply concepts that describe properties of matter and energy and the interactions between them.

Benchmark

12.C.ECMake comparisons among objects that have been observed.

Learning Standard D:
Know and apply concepts that describe force and motion and the principles that explain them.

Benchmark

12.D.ECDescribe the effects of forces in nature (e.g. wind, gravity and magnetism).

Learning Standard E:
Know and apply the concepts that describe the features and processes of the Earth and its resources.

Benchmarks

12.E.ECaUse common weather-related vocabulary (e.g. rainy, snowy, sunny, windy).

12.E.ECbParticipate in recycling in their environment.

Learning Standard F:
Know and apply concepts that explain the composition and structure of the universe and the Earth’s place in it.

Benchmark

12.F.ECIdentify basic concepts associated with night/day and seasons.

STATE GOAL13:
Understand the relationships among science, technology and society in historical and contemporary contexts.

Learning Standard A:
Know and apply the accepted practices of science.

Benchmark

13.A.ECBegin to understand basic safety practices.

Learning Standard B:
Know and apply concepts that describe the interaction between science, technology and society.

Benchmarks

13.B.ECaExpress wonder and ask questions about their world.

13.B.ECbBegin to be aware of technology and how it affects their lives.