The sound waves of thunder are made when lightning very quickly heats the air surrounding it, expanding faster than the speed of sound. Learners explore waves through their own movement of string or set waves to constantly oscillate....

All chemists know that moles are made of molecules. Individuals see how changes in the amount of solute affect the concentration of the solutions. By manipulating solute amounts (moles), solution volume (liters), and solute types, the...

Students investigate simple machines and their uses in everyday life.  In this scientific method lesson plan, students examine physical tools such as wedges, screws, and levers using a "how does it work" approach.  Students...

One of the factors that automotive engineers must consider is wind drag. The less wind drag, the more efficient the car will be. They perform many tests in wind tunnels, then refine their designs and test again. Using simple materials,...

Second graders maneuver placement of the fulcrum on the lever to see how to lift weight most easily. They role-play as archaeologists with the task of lifting a heavy rock from the dig site. They write in science journals about what...

Learners identity the components of electron transport system through role play. They explain the role of intermediate energy carriers to the production of ATP molecules. They describe the relationship of electron transport system to...

Students simulate the search for water in Mars using simple apparatus. In this space science instructional activity, students explain how soil temperature affects the cooling of probes. They graph the data collected from the simulation.

Students role-play as engineers designing wedge tools. They devise methods for shaping quarry rocks into pyramid blocks. Following a teacher demonstration, they use materials such as soap, clay, and foam for blocks and wood, plastic,...

Learners explore energy by creating a light project in class. In this kaleidoscope lesson, students discuss the properties of light and how mirrors can reflect the energy in different directions. Learners view a diagram of light...

First graders study, observe, and use a simple machine. They study necessary safety and review posted safety rules related to using a machine and identify strategies for reporting any accidents or injuries.

High Schoolers complete a variety of activities as they examine the ethics of (and take a position concerning) genetically modified organisms in the field of agriculture. They complete a PowerPoint demonstration to go along with the unit.

Explore philosophy and religion by researching Gandhi. Lead your young students to investigate the life and accomplishments of Mahatma Gandhi by reading the assigned text. Your class will define sustainability and create a sustainable...

Using plastic Easter eggs to represent parent phenotypes, genetics enthusiasts simulate the passing of alleles. They record the phenotype of each half of the egg, one representing the mother's and one representing the father's. They...

Pick and choose which activities to include in this crime scene investigation. Junior detectives can examine fingerprints, DNA, blood samples, or bone structure.  The plan suggests you have teams solve a mystery, but it does not...

Students search through the seed mixture and separate out our "mine" beads, sunflower seeds, and other grain products, making piles of each. students count up the number of gold, silver, and blue beads, and sunflower seeds from their piles

Students discover ways to stay healthy by utilizing Internet education software.  In this computer technology activity, students investigate Internet programs that simulate a field trip by showing images and video.  Students...

Young scholars illustrate the molecular nature of matter and show that chemical change involves alteration of molecules.

Students examine how we use submersibles. In this technology based instructional activity, students examine various technologies used by submersibles in ocean exploration.

First graders explore physics by utilizing education software. In this sound properties lesson, 1st graders discuss the different sounds associated with different materials and perform an object dropping experiment in class....

Students consider the concept that plants and animals are dependent on one another and role-play the interaction between bees and flowers. They identify crops that are dependent on pollination by bees.

Fifth graders study fair trade by role-playing a cocoa bean farming situation. In this fair trade lesson, 5th graders role-play as cocoa bean farmers and buyers to learn about fair trade. Students complete a worksheet to assess their...

Pupils study plant and animal interdependence by studying bees and pollination. For this interdependence lesson, students discuss flower parts and dissect it to show its reproductive parts. Pupils then use tissue and pipe cleaners to...

Pupils examine tree-ring dating and discuss the lack of water the settlers in Jamestown faced. They create paper tree rings, simulate rain patterns, and describe the history of construction paper tree sequences.

Students discover the Internet by participating in on-line educational activities.  In this educational technology lesson, students utilize interactive story books, podcasts, and games to help expand an understanding of phonics....