Middle schoolers participate in a review unit in Astronomy using the Layered Curriculum. This allows them to take charge of the type of assessment that is given. The method also allows better differentiation of instruction to occur.

Students study the planets of the solar system. Students observe a model of the solar system, and name each planet, in order. In pairs, students write acronyms to assist in remembering the plants in order and share them with their...

Students are introduced to the characteristics of trees and different techniques to identify them. They distinguish between a deciduous and a coniferous tree. Students describe at least four characteristics used to identify trees. They...

Students discover the shape-note method of singing. In this reading and notating music lesson, students learn the four shapes of the shape-note method and the tradition of Sacred Harp singers. Students sing the shapes of "Yankee Doodle"...

Students apply their enthusiasm for imaginary play to create their own imaginary play space. In this novice architectural design instructional activity, students arrange and glue pre-cut foam shapes to a cardboard base to set up their...

Students learn how tools help us accomplish things. In this tool discovery lesson, students review the function of tools. They then make a class chart and categorize different types of tools found in the classroom. Finally, they create a...

Pupils explore how they can be a philanthropist. In this recycling lesson, students learn what it means to recycle and discuss why items need to be recycled. Pupils review the term philanthropy and practice this by picking up the trash...

Students identify the route of Magellan's voyage. In this map skills lesson plan, students use a globe to identify various coordinates where Magellan traveled.

Students explore the Underground Railroad routes. In this map skills and Civil War instructional activity, students use map and globe reading vocabulary and skills to track the routes the slaves followed from the Bahamas to the United...

Students explore the concept of fractals. In this fractal lesson, students use applets to explore Koch's Snowflake, Sierpinski's Triangle, and other fractals. Students develop these concepts through exploration and teacher guided...

Students explore how an artist uses the force of gravity to create balance in a sculpture. In this sculpting lesson, students create their own sculpture applying concepts from the lesson.

Sixth graders research a problem to be solved in their town, develop a rationale as to why they should act on this problem, and present their ideas to the class and their community. In this problem solving lesson plan, 6th graders...

Students list four ways to identify trees. For this tree identification instructional activity, students use tree identification techniques such as leafs, bark, wood grain, soil type, and climate to create tables and graphs.

Students observe, work with charts, and work with GPS in order to determine the path lobster larvae travel based on local currents. In this currents lesson plan, students work with local fishermen to observe the natural currents.

Learners solve triangles using the properties if congruency. For this geometry lesson, students apply congruent and similar figures to solve real world and math problems. They show they are able to follow instructions.

Students relate miniature golf to reflection of an image. In this algebra lesson, students collect and graph data as they study linear equations. They apply properties of graphing to solve real life scenarios.

Students research news articles relating to global climate change. In this earth science lesson, students create a news broadcast using the information they gathered. They present this in class and each student gives their peer...

On July 1, 1863 the Army of Northern Virginia, under the command of General Robert E. Lee met the Army of the Potomac, under the leadership of Major General George Meade. Considered the turning point of the war, the Battle of Gettysburg...

Students observe, hypothesize, and draw conclusions regarding fish. They examine their anatomy, and how they function in their environment.

Students use maps and mathematics to determine the appropriate panther population in a given area. In this Florida ecology instructional activity, students research the area requirements of male and female panther and use a map to help...

Students compare the lengths of whales using different lengths of rope. They illustrate one whale in life-size proportion.

Middle schoolers create a clay model of the Sun and Earth. In this space science lesson, students explain how distance affects the appearance of objects. They write a poem or riddle about the Sun in their journal.

Students evaluate the acceptable use of classroom space. The class participated in a brief lecture and discuss of floor plans and how they are used in architecture. Using graph paper, they create a scale drawing of the classroom...

Students map an actual local waterway. They create full color scale drawings that include windfalls, plant cover, streambed composition, and landmarks such as trees, boulders, and slumps. This is a long-term project that involves...