Students explore ionic bonding. They draw examples of ionic bonding and explain the activities of the electrons of the elements. Students use paper plates and candy to draw electron configurations of given atoms.

Fifth graders study the properties of metals and use them to identify different properties.  In this metal properties lesson students complete a demonstration .

Eighth graders sort items as they are shown one at a time by the teacher. They attempt to identify the one physical trait the teacher is looking for (metal and not metal). After several objects have been shown and placed in groups, the...

Students discover the best practical shielding material when dealing with radioactive substances. They draw conclusions based on availability of materials, price, and best shielding properties.

Students study polyatomic ions and write binary and ternary ionic chemical formulas. They explore putting together different monatomic ions and coming up with as many chemical formulas as possible. They play a game similar to memory...

Learners assess how to go from writing ionic chemical formulas to nomenclature and naming chemical compounds. They brainstorm former studies and share their thoughts in small groups. A list of everyday products (shampoos, toothpaste,...

Third graders understand that the smallest particle is an atom. In this matter lesson, 3rd graders make a piece of aluminum smaller and smaller to see that what's left is still aluminum. Students recognize that cutting into smaller...

Students read an article about radon and its properties. They examine a periodic table and identify the numbers surrounding an element. They discuss the harmful and helpful effects of radiation.

Young scholars stand for roll call in designated spots painted by the teacher. They stand on the alphabet, numbers, periodic table, and keyboard.

Students identify the properties of transition metals. In this chemistry lesson, students research facts and uses of one aluminum product they choose. They create an advertisement highlighting aluminum's useful properties.

Ninth graders investigate ionic bonding through energy level diagrams. In this ion bonding lesson plan, 9th graders observe demonstrations to show energy level diagrams using magnets to represent the subatomic particles. Students fill...

Students research about the chemical processes involved in cave formation. In this chemistry lesson plan, students draw or find a cave picture with stalagmites and stalactites online. They write a brief caption and share them with the...

Students investigate friction between different surfaces. In this physics lesson, students research biomaterials that can reduce friction. They calculate efficiency using a mathematical formula.

Upcoming chemists construct atom or molecule models out of candy. This is a classic idea that learners really enjoy; however, this lesson plan is vague. There is no instruction about the structure of atoms or molecules. Make sure you...

Learners investigate how to determine the percent composition of a mineral in an ore. For this mining an ore lesson plan, students use chocolate chips cookies to represent an ore and they remove precious minerals (the chocolate chips)...

Students perform an experiment to show the chemical reactions that occur when metal corrodes. They apply the results of the experiment to the conservation efforts of art curators trying to restore an ancient Greek bronze. This lesson...

Learners use runaway slave advertisements to discover how the language varies from the 18th to 21st century. Using primary source documents, they research the brutality of slavery and the desire of those in slavery to be free. They...

Young scholars discuss how color construct meaning in art. They will demonstrate a technical knowledge and creative use of formal elements and principals of design. Students then discuss the way their selection of color contributed to...

Learners write electron configurations and identify groups.  In this investigative lesson students use valence electrons to draw electron dot structures. 

Students understand the difference between four different types of chemical reactions: composition, synthesis, single replacement, and double replacement and identify the type of reaction and predict the products of these types of...

Students tour Chandra's top galactic X-ray images. In this Chandra X-Ray Observatory instructional activity, students play games and complete puzzles based on the Chandra Mission and X-Ray Astronomy. Students listen to pod casts,...

Students discuss metalloids, their use as semiconductors, and their impact on the computer industry. They work in groups to create a visual timeline showing the evolution of the computer.

Eighth graders interpret the chemical symbols and shorthand used for molecules and equations. Through guided practice, 8th graders work to decipher and interpret the symbols for chemical equations. An opportunity for independent...

Students conduct an experiment to test the reactivity of metals and non-metals. In this chemistry lesson plan students test metals with different chemicals to observe the reaction. The results are used to categorize the metals.