Living and Non-Living Things Worksheets

What this worksheet set covers

The set introduces the difference between living and non-living things through clear pictures, sorting tasks, matching activities, simple tables and short written answers. Younger children can identify plants, animals and objects, then group them by category. Older children can use features such as growth, need for water or food, movement, breathing, reproduction and response to surroundings. Familiar examples include a mango tree, ant, fish, stone, school bag, toy car and clay pot. The pages suit Nursery and early primary learners as well as children in Classes 2 to 5 who need more practice with scientific vocabulary.

Simple ways to use the pages

At home, begin with one worksheet and take a short walk around a room, balcony or garden. Ask your child to name three living things and three non-living things, then explain one reason for each choice. In class, place picture cards or classroom objects in two groups before children complete the written task. Pairs can compare answers and explain their thinking. Use a worksheet as a warm-up before a nature observation activity, or as a quiet review after a lesson. Children can colour living things in green and non-living things in blue if they need a visual reminder.

Clear up common mix-ups

Children often think that anything that moves is living. A toy car moves when pushed, while a plant may be living even when it stays in one place. A cloud, flame or river can move, but none is a living thing. A dead leaf was once part of a living plant, while a seed is living even when it appears still. Help your child use more than one clue instead of relying on movement alone. Ask, "Does it grow, need nourishment, reproduce or respond to its surroundings?" Accept an answer first, then guide the child to explain it with evidence.