Students investigate the many uses of silk in Chinese society through in-class experiments, group projects, and hands-on learning in this cross-curricular lesson. There are four main activities included in this lesson.

Learners discover the uses of Jade in Chinese art and society through in-class discussions, group projects, and internet research. Additional enrichment activities are included.

Students investigate the dangers of radiation by exploring recent nuclear tragedies.  In this scientific debate lesson plan, students define the idea of radiation "half life" and determine if low doses of radiation are truly...

Students make "pets" of isopods (potato bugs) to determine their preferred environment and food sources. They record their results on a bar graph and in a scientific report.

Learners examine the role photosynthesis plays in plant survival.  In this renewable energy lesson students document their observations and analyze and interpret their results. 

Learners become familiar with coal as an energy source and how it is mined.  In this coal lesson, students research the effects of coal mining on the environment. Learners discuss the various problems associated with coal mining....

Students use the internet to research the flu. Using various websites, they identify who should get flu shots, how to protect themselves and guidelines for getting over the flu. They write a one page report on their findings to end the...

Young scholars examine worm habitats. In this animal habitats lesson, students participate in a lab activity that requires them to explore the adaptations that earthworms make to their environment.

Students describe examples of the relationship between structure and function in living systems, particularly with regard to specialized tissues and organs. They describe examples of biological diversity and adaptation of organisms with...

Students observe the growth of a seed, predict what will happen when seeds are planted without soil, and conduct an experiment using a hydroponics system.

Students design an investigation to test whether vegetation in an area helps regulate the ambient air temperature. They make comparisons between the investigation and global changes in climate. In groups, they present their findings to...

Students gather and analyze scientific data from a local creek. Over weeks or months, students observe their local environment, collect water samples, and evaluate test results. Extension activities are suggested for evaluating...

Students make a cordage and use an activity sheet to experience a skill that ancient Native American in North Carolina neded for everyday life.

Students examine the different types of luminescence in deep sea organisms. In this bioluminescence lesson, students investigate how color and light aide deep ocean organisms by describing the characteristics of the habitat and...

Students examine tree rings to determine its age.  In this tree ring lesson, students examine core tree samples, identify the tree rings, and then determine its age. Students complete a worksheet, deciding which of the two core...

Learners 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.  Learners learn about appropriate...

Students investigate, through their own experimentation, the important role wildlife play in nutrient cycling. Earthworms and compost are used in this experiment and different experimental setups be evaluated.

Students study archery. In this archery activity, students develop basic archery and hunter safety skills. Students discuss the history of archery and bow hunting.

Students explore canoes and kayaks. In this canoe and kayak lesson, students research the history, parts, and sport of the canoe and kayak.  Students then practice how to use a paddle for each boat, and go on a field trip in order...

Students observe and describe a "special place" chosen along a nature trail. In this habitat observational skills and writing lesson, students take a walk on a nature trail and choose a spot to sit and meditate. Students complete a...

Young scholars identify the relationship between predator and prey in the food chain. In this food chain instructional activity, students work in groups and play a predator and prey game. Young scholars discover what happens when a...

Students explore the benefits of recognizing edible wild plants.  For this wild plant lesson, students collect, make ready and eat edible plants.  Students answer questions about the plants.

Young scholars explore insects' use of pheromones and beneficial insects versus insect pests.

Students view a video about non-native/invasion species. They create a non-native/invasion species that they think would have an impact on farming, industry, recreation, or water in the local environment.