University of Colorado
Patterns and Fingerprints
Human fingerprint patterns are the result of layers of skin growing at different paces, thus causing the layers to pull on each other forming ridges. Here, groups of learners see how patterns and fingerprints assist scientists in a...
Curated OER
Unit 2 Sun & Stars
Students describe stellar objects using terms such as stars, planets, satellites, orbits and light. In this sun and stars unit, students research stellar objects through seven individual lessons discovering star characteristics, how...
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once and future MOON
Beyond the phases of the moon, this comprehensive lesson plan covers geologic history and geology. Amateur astronauts examine photos of the lunar landscape, experiment with the creation of craters, and delve into information about the...
McGraw Hill
H-R Diagram
As a star ages its composition, size, and temperature change. Using an interactive simulation, learners explore these changes over the lifetime of a star. They see the change in temperature and luminosity graphically and a visual...
Curated OER
Using Star Charts and Maps
Learners study star charts and describe locations of objects. In this scientific models lesson students use coordinates and identify characteristics.
Curated OER
Starfish: The Stars of the Sea Lesson Plan
Young scholars discover many characteristics of the starfish. In this early childhood lesson plan, students identify characteristics of starfish. Young scholars develop a language experience chart and record their new-found...
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Echinoderms
Echinoderm structure and characteristics are the focus of this reading comprehension and labeling worksheet. Attractive diagrams and ample information make this a suitable homework assignment for your biology buffs when learning about...
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Classifying Stars and Constellations
Students examine stars and constellations. In this space science instructional activity, students visit selected websites to discover information about the classification of stars. Students also practice identifying constellations.
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The Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram
In this astronomy worksheet, students use a Hertzsprung-Russell diagram to examine the relationship between the average temperatures of stars and their absolute magnitude. After viewing the diagram, they complete 10 short answer questions.
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Galactic Inquiry
Students view NASA images of galaxies and develop a galaxy classification scheme. They compare and contrast their classification scheme with that developed by Edwin Hubble. They recognize that galaxies are collections of billions of stars.
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Mapping Constellations
Young scholars become familiar with constellations. In this space science lesson, the teacher introduces constellations by showing students the star patterns and reading myths. Young scholars, observe the stars nightly, then choose one...
Curated OER
The Planet Mars
Fifth graders gain knowledge about Mars and Earth. In this compare and contrast lesson, 5th graders use visual representations of the solar system to observe the characteristics of the planets. Students read fiction and nonfiction...
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Illustrate the Constellations
Students explore space science by participating in a star identification activity. In this astronomy lesson plan, students identify different star patterns and discuss the movement of stars across the sky as the seasons change. Students...
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Number The Stars: Character Sketch
In this literacy worksheet, students create a graphic organizer for the character of Anne Marie from Number The Stars. Then they write a description of her.
Las Cumbres Observatory
Agent Exoplanet
Not everything revolves around the sun! Believe it or not, there are planets, called exoplanets, that orbit stars other than our sun. Learners use an interactive online resource to research several of these planets. They learn about the...
Curated OER
Invertebrate Phyla
Students explore the invertebrate phyla. They discuss the characteristics of the invertebrate Phyla in the Kingdom Animal. Students classify organisms into Phyla based on their characteristics. They distinguish radial symmetry, bilateral...
Curated OER
HEROs Project
What does it take to be a hero? In small groups, middle schoolers design a hero by identifying heroic characteristics and recording responses on an online blog. Use this lesson as an extension in a literature unit about a heroic...
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Tin-Foil Twinkles
Students compare and discuss characteristics and properties of 2- and 3-dimensional shapes. They construct 3-dimensional paper star figures, imaginatively customizing them with art tools and craft materials. Students analyze their...
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Our Intriguing Star, the Sun!
Explore the sun in a lesson plan about space. The instructional activity spans ten weeks, with students performing activities to answer weekly questions about the Sun and Earth.
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Language Arts: Creating Character Maps
Third graders select characters from books they have read to create character maps. After drawing the maps, they add the characteristics around a sketch of their chosen character. In groups, 3rd graders who have read the same book,...
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Solar System Unit
Young scholars probe an interdisciplinary unit on our solar system. Distances between planets, their characteristics, and applications to student's personal lives are analyzed in this experience. The unit contains seven lessons.
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Star Diagram Options
In this literacy learning exercise, students use the created resources for further progress towards knowledge. The sheet is a teacher's guide for creating student resources.
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Observational Astronomy
Students research about the characteristics of celestial bodies using a database. In this space science lesson, students collect data such as brightness, apparent color and size by observing the night sky. They share their findings with...
Curated OER
Glowing Glimpses of Our Universe
Learners will complete hands-on space activities. In this space science lesson, students will create a glow-in-the-dark model of the solar system, visit a planetarium, make star pictures, and paint constellations. Activities are meant to...