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Building a Paper Bridge: an Introduction To Problem Solving
Eighth graders explore problem solving strategies to build a paper bridge with a partner. As a class they discuss a variety of techniques to solve a simple problem, then in pairs construct the longest non-supported single span bridge...
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Introduce Vocabulary: Cross a Bridge (Hunter)
What does suspension mean? Learn this and other bridge-related vocabulary as scholars listen to Ryan Ann Hunter's nonfiction book, Cross a Bridge. This strategy can be applied to any book. Before reading, acquaint pupils...
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Building a Bridge
Third graders discover architecture and functionality by constructing a bridge. In this bridge engineering lesson, 3rd graders utilize cardboard, straws, towel tubes and plastic bottles to create a model bridge similar to ones seen...
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Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes
Third graders explore their culture in comparison to Japanese culture by reading the book, Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes. They identify islands of Japan, create a Venn diagram comparing Japanese culture to American culture, and...
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Introduce Vocabulary: Cross a Bridge
Students discover the meaning of tier two vocabulary words. In this vocabulary lesson, students read Cross a Bridge, listening for 3 pre-selected, tier two vocabulary words. Words are defined by the teacher and students practice...
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Teaching Empathy : The Story of Ruby Bridges
Students explore "The Story of Ruby Bridges," by Robert Coles to uncover examples of courage in the lives of others and in themselves. This search into the story is meant to help students form connections with others and to foster the...
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Allowing Students to Explore Simple Physics and Marketing in English Class
Scientific method, linear measurements, friction, inertia. Imagine learning scientific vocabulary in an ELA class. Before researching and developing a presentation about simple machines, class members build a common, but decidedly...
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Sense of Place: No River Too Wide-Bridges
Fifth graders discover the history of their hometown Des Moines River. In this U.S. Geography lesson students speak with Iowans that tell stories of the settlers and early villages near the Des Moines River. Students document...
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Cooperation
Students, in groups, "Build An Animal where they need to cooperate in order to be successful and then make a storyboard for a Powerpoint presentation.
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Capitalization and Washington, D.C.
Second graders learn and practice capitalizing names of cities, states, countries, streets, buildings, bridges, and geographical places around the theme of Washington, D.C. through activities at learning centers in the classroom.
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Writing: Barn Raising
Young writers compare writing a paper to building a barn. They write a thesis statement using parallel construction and use transitions to hold the paper (walls of the barn) together. A barn raising video link is included; great for...
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Galloping Gertie
Middle schoolers read a poem and are to write another poem using the words given. They are also to develop a monument and narrative of the bridge and its collapse.
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Faith Ringgold and Tar Beach
Learners read the book, "Tar Beach," and examine the artist's use of fabric as an art medium. They each create a building and a picture of themselves flying, and a section of the fabric border to develop a class quilt.
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Internet Research tied to Literature for Alternative Jr. High
Ninth graders research a career using different "center" activities and then write a paper.
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Understanding Artifacts
Students will develop a greater awareness of the things surrounding them and will be able to build a bridge between their own material culture and that of an imaginary figure from the past. This lesson focuses on the significance of...
Smekens Education Solutions, Inc.
Introducing the 6 Traits to Students
Put together an English language arts unit on the six traits of writing with this helpful collection of resources. From fun songs to differentiated writing exercises reinforcing each of the traits, great ideas are provided for...
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Project-Based Learning and the Arts
What's so great about Project-Based learning? Read to learn how projects can help kids apply higher-order thinking skills, conduct thoughtful investigations, and make cross curricular connections. This short article includes five...
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Riding a Stagecoach in the 19th Century
Students research the differences between traveling on a stagecoach and wagon trail in the 19th century. In this historical lesson, students discover the uses of stagecoaches and wagon trails in the 19th century, then decide which one...
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The Posse in Austrailia
Learners explore the use of commas and periods. They compose a friendly letter without commas or periods to give to a partner to revise. In addition, they discuss how these punctuation marks helped readers better understand the meanings...
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Day of the Dragon King
Second graders explore various cultures to compare them to their own culture. They read Mary Pope Osborne's Day of the Dragon King and identify the Chinese New Year, Chinese Zodiac, and how the zodiac differs from ours. After reading,...
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Small Moments
Students select a personal photo for an experience to write about. In this personal experience lesson, students find a photo of themselves that contains a 'small moment.' Students write about the personal experience in the picture.
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Protect the Bats!
Students explore bat habitats. In this bat lesson, students discover the work of people trying to protect bat habitats. Students make posters that promote the message of saving bats.
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Trustworthy Reputation
Seventh graders explore the character trait of reputation. In this character education instructional activity, 7th graders focus on their personal reputation as they discuss positive character traits and reflect on character quotations...
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Trustworthy Reputation
Seventh graders explore psychology by writing reflections about quotations. In this human behavior lesson plan, 7th graders read a list of famous quotes about trust by men such as Benjamin Franklin and William Shakespeare. Students...