Young scholars explore a specific method of identifying fungi, using a written key and an illustrated key. Powdery mildew fungi can be identified to genus by the morphology (appearance) of the sexual stage (cleistothecia).

Students study the biodiversity in pond water. In this biodiversity lesson plan, students observe 3 samples of pond water using a pond water identification sheet. They record their findings and identify the organisms they find, the...

Fifth graders use a real life scenario of the wetlands to gather information on creatures of the habitat.  In this wetlands instructional activity, 5th graders research the interdependence of organisms in a healthy habitat. Students...

Students examine seed coats. In this biology lesson, students look at pictures of magnified seed coats, then use hand-help magnifiers or microscopes to look at seed coats on their own.

Students investigate the water quality of a river. In this water quality lesson plan, students use microscopes, probing devices, and global positioning systems to determine water quality and create presentations on it.

Tenth graders are introduced to the cell and some of its parts. Through the use of video, 10th graders see animal and plants cells and their parts. They learn terms used to explain the cell.

Students explore vision by experimenting with lenses in equipment. In this optics instructional activity, students define the different technology that enhances vision such as microscopes, telescopes and cameras. Students experiment with...

Students explore magnification. In this scientific observation skills lesson, students observe sea life items and draw pictures of what they observe. Students predict which lens will have the strongest magnification when given three...

Students conduct a hands-on lab activity in which they analyze a sample of water from a local stream or pond. They introduce a fertilizer solution into the sample and analyze and describe their findings.

Young scholars have the opportunity to develop and formulate ideas and explanations through the scientific standard of inquiry. They identify organisms by using an identification key for specific aquatic geographical area.

Students see how the properties of salt affect the color of flame, the flow of electricity, and the freezing temperature of water. They identify salt and sugar crystals under a microscope and discuss various practical uses of salt.

By setting up an aquarium in the classroom, learners are able to describe some macroscopic and microscopic organisms that are found inside. This well-designed, and educationally rich lesson requires pupils to use microscopes to view...

Individuals analyze tree rings to determine the health of an ecosystem. They then look at otoliths of fish, hard calcium carbonate structures located behind the brain, in the same manner. 

Plankton isn't just a tiny cartoon character, it's also a very important food source for animals around the world. Budding scientists discuss the types and functions of plankton, including where they are found, how they are caught, and...

Investigate the life of bugs and how they interact with the environment in this integrated science and language arts instructional activity. Young scientists construct mini environments in cages in order to make observations. This data...

Learners select one of the ideas for a science project reflecting their knowledge about coal. They then choose a catchy title to spark interest that describes their project. They use the scientific method to explain the process.

Learners become familiarized with use of the microscope.

Students participate in a variety of activities to introduce them to biology. In this biology lesson plan, students use microscopes, discover bacteria, view human anatomy, and more.

Students photograph mystery images. In this observation skills instructional activity, students gather everyday objects and place them under a digital microscope. They magnify the image and take a photograph of it. The image is then...

Students discover bacteria which is around them by using agar over three days. In this biology instructional activity, students predict what they will see over the three days and then take photographs of what is actually shown. Finally,...

Students investigate the different materials in their environment.  In this geology lesson, students collaborate in groups to examine the differences in sand, soil and gravel.  Students utilize a magnifying glass or microscope...

Students use scientific tools. In this Applied Science lesson, students investigate the use of scientific tools to enhance observation and discovery. Students indicate how each tool assists scientific work.

Students use microscopes to investigate the diversity of life that exists in pond water. They then conduct a controlled investigation to study the effect of a pollutant (rice) on a microcosm ecosystem.

Students explain how the components of a cell operate as a system. Students examine a bicycle and find out if parts were arranged differently, could the system still be carried out. They look at cells as well and see what function they...