We can't build our dream house yet, but we can definitely build a model. Scholars use floor plans to build models of their dream homes. Cardboard is as good as any material for this purpose.

Math is a lot like building blocks—it requires a solid foundation. A short performance task has pupils consider the volume of a cubic block. It then asks mathematicians to find the surface area and volume of a prism made from stacking...

It is all in a matter of time. The model curriculum module uses parametric equations and vectors to solve problems dealing with particle motion along a curve. At the beginning of the lesson, the unit reviews parametric equations and...

Early learners explore shapes using colored blocks. They first get some hands-on time with the blocks and then look at beginning math concepts regarding spatial relationships. They work with a partner to build a 6-8 block tower...

Take foldables to all new heights. Pupils build and fly different types of paper airplanes in the 14th portion of a 22-part unit on aviation. Groups collect data on distance and flight time for each plane and compare the data from the...

Middle and high schoolers explore the concepts of architectural rigidity. They analyze a variety of polygons, and explain why some shapes add more strength to structures than others. The PBS video, "Building Big," is utilized in this plan.

Boxing takes on a whole new meaning! The second installment of the three-part series has groups create lidless boxes from construction paper that can hold the most rice. After testing out their constructions, they build a new box....

Run a simulated airplane manufacturing plant with your pupils as the builders! Learners build Lego airplane models and collect data on the rate of production, comparing the number produced to the number defective. Using linear...

Graphing all kinds of situations in one and two variables is the focus of this detailed unit of daily lessons, teaching notes, and assessments. Learners start with piece-wise functions and work their way through setting up and solving...

Students work in small groups to explore spatial relationships while building with color cubes. Students must identify positions of blocks to partner, recreate a model, and color a sketch of their structure appropriately.

Geometry is everywhere, and I mean everywhere! Those skillful mathematicians discuss shapes and then come up with a well-researched list of shapes seen in everyday applications. They put their knowledge of shapes to work as each small...

While spending is fun, saving for a retirement is the future. Young adults learn about the importance of saving and different opportunities to do so during their adulthood. 

Exponential functions are the name of the game. Young mathematicians can work through each of the eight worksheets by evaluating functions, applying logarithms, completing logarithmic functions, and building inverse functions. This...

Need a unit to teach fractions to fourth graders? Look no further than this well-developed and thorough set of lessons that takes teachers through all steps of planning, implementing, and assessing their lessons. Divided into eight...

Fifth graders find the area and volume of buildings. In this architecture lesson, 5th graders look at the drawings of three historic Tennessee buildings. They use these to help find the area and volume of the building. 

Research various types of bridge designs. Your class will be asked to consider what it would be like without bridges while learning about how they work. They will construct a model bridge based on given parameters. They then calculate...

E is for economics, environment, and social equity. The fifth installment of a 15-part series has scholars first considering ecological impacts, such as determining how much water it takes to produce a can of soda. They then use decision...

Apply pattern knowledge to bead patterns. The formative assessment activity provides pupils the opportunity to show what they know about patterns and functions. Learners take a pre-assessment, then build upon their answers at the...

Students investigate the architecture in their hometown by visiting buildings.  For this geometry lesson, students examine buildings through photographs and explain the different geometric shapes found in the architecture....

Learners explore kite making.  In this cross curriculum fine arts and ancient Chinese history lesson, students activate prior knowledge about how kites were used in ancient Chinese culture.  Learners sketch an original kite...

Why is it important to use precise language? Participants explore this question in the fourth activity in a series of 15 on effective instruction. Perfect for all content areas, the activity promotes appropriate language choice through...

You'll C-E-R a difference in classroom achievement after using a helpful lesson plan. Designed for economics, civics, government, and US history classes, participants practice using the CER model to craft arguments about primary and...

The six instructional shifts in this workshop definitely move math and science teachers' understanding of instruction. The workshop, 13th out of a series of 15, asks participants to examine sample tests and to look at how the six...

How do you create a residual plot? Work as a class and in small groups through the activity in order to learn how to build a residual plot. The activity builds upon previous learning on calculating residuals and serves as a...