Curated OER
What are Metamorphic Rocks and How are They Formed?
Even though the student handouts are not included in the write-up, this lesson contains the instructions for terrific activities to use when teaching middle schoolers about metamorphic rocks. First, they compare granite to gneiss and...
Curated OER
Orienteering II
Students name the parts of a compass and comprehend the function of each part. They define paces and tallies and use them in a real world situation. Students are shown the proper use of radio terminology. They use a map and compass to...
Curated OER
Orienteering
Students proceed through a simple course following a map but not using a compass. They must find 18 controls working in pairs that leave at 2 minute intervals. Students must record letter and after finding all 18 controls they will...
Curated OER
Learning to Read a Map
First graders identify the map and globe symbols: Cardinal Directions; Compass Rose; Mountains; Rivers; Lakes; Towns; Roads.
Curated OER
What Can the Wind Blow?
Students observe math and science concepts no matter which way the wind blows.  In this early childhood problem solving lesson plan, students will develop science, math, and observation skills as they learn about the wind.
PHET
Measuring the Interplanetary Magnetic Field
Scientists need to figure out how to measure interplanetary magnetic fields, but the magnetic field of the spacecraft is interfering with their readings. Scholars attempt to solve the problem that has perplexed NASA scientists for years.
Curated OER
Survival Lesson Plan
Students participate in a survival lesson that teaches four steps to take in the event of dealing with an emergency. The skill of improvising is practiced and its importance is stressed as being resourceful. Students also cover the...
Curated OER
As the Kids Come and Go: Mapping a Classroom
Map the classroom with your kids to help them understand how maps work and how to read them. The lesson plan starts off with a story about animals living and moving around the globe, and then kids create maps of their classroom to show...
Curated OER
Going, Going, Ghost
Third graders research ghost towns. In this geography lesson, 3rd graders locate ghost towns on a map and choose one location to research. Students construct a research paper and present it to the class.
PHET
Iron Filings and Magnetic Field Lines
How do magnetic fields differ? Allow scholars to see the difference between 2-D and 3-D magnetic fields. They construct models of both and observe how they are similar and different. It is the fifth installment of an 18-part unit.
Curated OER
Early Explorers
Fifth graders investigate the routes taken by the early explorers. In this explorers instructional activity, 5th graders use interactive notebooks, discussion and maps to discover the routes taken. Students get into pairs and label maps,...
Curated OER
Map It!
Fourth graders demonstrate map making skills by using the computer to create maps of the geographic features, regions, and economy for their state.
Curated OER
"Asking for Tourist Information" (Italian)
Students explain and use verbal directions, recognize the prepositions used in a conversation, explore Italian art, and acquaint themselves with tourist services in Italy.
Curated OER
Caddo Circle Book
Students are introduced to the Caddo Indians of Texas.  Using a compass, they draw a circle given specific dimensions and cut them out.  Using the text, they read one section abut the Indians and complete the task listed on one of their...
Curated OER
Learning Directions on a Map
Students use north, south, east, and west to identify relative locations and provide directions.
Childnet International
Crossing the Line: Sexting
Technology may be changing every day, but peer pressure remains difficult for teenagers to resist. After watching a video about feeling pressured to text provocative pictures, middle schoolers learn about the laws and school policy...
Curated OER
Radial Design Mandala
Students design original radial art designs.In this radial design lesson, students use compasses and a nature inspired idea to create radial art. Students understand the use of symmetry, balance and design shapes in continual patterns....
Curated OER
Space Science:Wherever You Go, There You Are
Learners explore navigation principles by observing, measuring, and interpreting data to determine locations.  Using a compass, compass rose, and a transit, they plot courses and discover the workings of the Global Positioning System...
Curated OER
Geometric Construction
Seventh graders investigate some concepts associated with geometric shapes. They study the bisector segment and the perpendicular line to a given line. Students conduct analysis with the goal of deepening observation and deduction...
Curated OER
Map your Schoolyard
Students practice their mapping skills by creating an accurate map of their schoolyard using an aerial photo from the National Map web site.  Students include legends, a scale, and a north arrow on their maps.
Curated OER
Maps as Models of Earth
Eighth graders use different types of maps to find locations and surface features.  In this map-reading lesson students use a compass to find direction.
Curated OER
I Know Where You Are!
High schoolers study what a GPS is and use it to challenge themselves and find positions on a map.  In this investigative lesson students find various points on a map using a GPS system and answer questions on a worksheet. 
Curated OER
The Ridge Exploring Robot
Students study about an autonomous underwater vehicle and explain the strategies that it uses to locate and map hydrothermal vents. In this marine navigation lesson students design a program for an AUV survey.
Curated OER
Mathematics of Ornaments and Architecture
Students study African traditional architecture. They examine how African ornaments, wall painting and motifs use geometric shapes to express and explain the culture.
They discuss the ornaments and architectural designs in the setting...