The second lesson in the Getting Started Module introduces the theme of the "Overcoming Obstacles" course. Participants listen to a guest speaker who has achieved success, and then identify traits and skills that the speaker talked about...

Engaged learners discover how an owl beak works and how animals adapt to their environment. This task is part one of a three-part series. 

Teach young adults how to become advocates for their privacy in the modern information age. In a series of five lessons, learners explore their beliefs and opinions about privacy vs. the actual laws regarding who has the right to access...

An interesting resource addresses the role of youth in civic participation and community events. It also explains the role of the justice system in creating boundaries and how citizens play a part in the judicial process.  Pupils...

We can all use a little help sometimes. Middle schoolers engage in a series of activities that teach them about taking the initiative, how to make the effort, how to ask questions, and who to ask for help. They then listen to a guest...

A lesson dives deep into reference materials. The class begins with a discussion of which resources are best used for specific purposes and how to identify ways to get the needed information. Learners share information about the internet...

Here is a great idea for building cultural awareness and good listening skills. The lesson suggests having a guest speaker come to the classroom to share his/her experiences. Prior to the visit, the class will generate a list of...

Students collect current events that are important at the local and state level that relate to older adults. They question older persons in regard to issues that are important to them. They listen to a guest speaker discuss current...

Fourth graders ask appropriate questions about what an employer looks for in an employee and how he or she verifies information. They compare their criteria for employees with what they have been taught from the businessperson. Students...

Students explore, via a CD-ROM, the Virginia's five geological regions and discover the rocks and minerals located in each. In stone kits, they examine samples of rocks and minerals and answer questions about them. After discovering the...

What is the air quality index? Start by discussing pollution and air quality with your budding environmentalists. A list of instructional activities are provided here from inviting a guest speaker into your classroom to discussing...

A wrap-up to the unit, young environmentalists discuss and write about the difference in perspectives of a water keeper and water treatment engineer. 

Second graders discuss change in cities over time. They view pictures of a city as it has changed over time and then compare city pictures of the past to those of a modern city today. In preparing for a guest speaker who will come and...

Students research information about the Viet Nam Era. They listen to a guest speaker talk about his/her role in the Viet Nam War. Students write articles for the classroom newsletter or other appropriate publication.

Students study society's needs and altruism within communities. In this altruism lesson plan, students identify and categorize the basic needs that human beings have and define altruism. Students complete research on altruistic...

Students discuss the importance of setting goals, then set goals, and keep a record of their achievements. They read books about goal-setters and listen to a guest speaker.

Imagine you have money you want to save ... where do you put it?  Pupils investigate the similarities and differences of banks and credit unions as they determine where exactly to place their hard-earned money. Through a WebQuest,...

Buying a car is no easy task, and can have major long-term consequences if done without proper financial knowledge. Ensure your learners are prepared with the information and criteria for comparing different car deals and signing...

Introduce your pupils to the invaluable life skill of team and project management. Through worksheets, discussion, and role-playing activities, learners practice using tactful language, explore various management styles, and...

More than 90 percent of the people in a building have come down with an illness, and it is your job to investigate. Teachers give scientists the data needed to decide what is important and how they can solve the mystery....

As part of a career exploration and investigation, learners research the Internet for possible career options and identify what type of educational preparation is required for those careers, as well as possible salary options,...

Freedom of speech is not always free. Scholars investigate how the First Amendment provides for the right to express opinions. Through the court case Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier, they analyze free speech using primary documents—and hopefully...

Would you stand up for your beliefs, no matter the cost? Scholars investigate their own families to uncover examples of how and when someone stood up for their ideals. Using video clips, interviews, and eulogies, they come to understand...

What is your history? Scholars work with their own families to create a unique story of the courage and bravery of their ancestors. The third and final part of the series culminates in a creation of not just a family history, but a...