Students investigate how seeds sprout. In this scientific inquiry lesson, students make predictions on which seeds will grow the fastest and observe the seeds over a period of time. Observations are recorded into a journal.

Students classify and record objects they find "underground." In this observation lesson, students dig into bins filled with soil and encounter various objects such as bark, twigs, etc. Students classify their findings.

Students examine the characteristics of snakes and turtles and compare/contrast reptiles with mammals. They watch a video, answer discussion questions, complete information charts, conduct Internet research, and create a habitat diorama.

Students use a chart of the six simple machines and become aware of how the machines improve our ability to meet the following needs: shelter, food, water, and transportation. Students use model cars to experiment with force. They divide...

Students construct a butterfly mobile. In this visual arts lesson plan, students use rice paper, watercolors, a coat hanger, and wax paper to create a unique butterfly mobile. Students use photographs of butterflies to construct a...

Young scholars list all the ways humans use trees and tree by products. In this lesson students watch a video, discuss the impact trees have on humans, and research common products made from trees. The young scholars use their findings...

Students participate in an observational hike to study the natural surroundings.  In this observational hike lesson, students hike through a state park and observe the plant and animal life.  Students learn about appropriate...

Students record data of using a track system with variables and how those variables affect a ball used in the track. In this track lesson plan, students design their own track in groups, test the ball's rates of speed, and record their...

Learners work together to design and build a paper rocket. They place a propellant in the contraption to make it fly. They discover Newton's third law of motion.

Students monitor the weather, clouds, and sky. In this weather activity, students create a sky and cloud window to focus their sky observations. They write observations in a notebook and include the date, time, cloud cover, types of...

Students observe a composting box. For this soil lesson, students create a composting bin by using a bin, newspaper, worms, and food scraps. Students create a composting food web.

Students work in groups to predict which condition produces more breaths per minute. Groups record their breathing rates during rest periods and periods of activity. They graph their results and make comparisons to their predictions.

Students assess the factors affecting animal populations. Working in groups they define specific vocabulary terms and complete several activities from "Project Wild."

In this bluebirds learning exercise, students categorize bluebird species found in their state and define vocabulary related to it. Students complete 6 vocabulary words.

Students study soil, living and non-living particles in the soil, and learn about composting. In this soil study lesson, students study soil samples and discuss the living and non-living components of the soil. Students classify the...

Students explore permafrost.  In this 3 states of matter instructional activity, students identify characteristics of solids and liquids.  Students observe water and soil melting and freezing at various temperatures. ...

Students identify various animals and their habitats, as well as their specific traits For this animal habitat lesson, students list animals they've seen in their backyard. Students select one animal and do research. Students then answer...

Students examine what animals need in order to survive.  In this investigative lesson students play a "role" of an animal in winter.

Students research the effects of day-to-day weather on animal migrations, plant growth and other seasonal events. They consult maps, observe and record local conditions, keep journals and use their collected data check hypotheses.

Third graders observe and investigate wave properties and compare the properties of particles and waves. They fill a pie pan half full with water, place a toothpick in the center of the pie pan, then drop a marble into the pan and...

Students investigate the specific elements found in food that keep us healthy.  In this healthy eating lesson, students identify proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins as part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation....

Third graders consider outer space. In this introductory solar system lesson, 3rd graders complete a KWL chart and listen to the story The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System, by Joanna Cole & Bruce Degen. They will contribute...

Third graders examine the phases of the moon. In this moon phase lesson, 3rd graders listen to a read aloud of The Moon Seems to Change by Franklyn M. Branley and discuss the phases of the moon. They complete a moon phase calendar and...

Students explore liquids and solids by conducting in class experiments. In this matter lesson, students define the properties of matter and how heat can change those properties. Students experiment with heating objects such as butter and...