Cornell University
Extracting DNA
Uncover the basics of DNA structure through exploration activities. Collaborative groups build DNA models and recreate the process of replication. Then, using plant cells such as peas or strawberries, they extract a DNA sample.
Curated OER
Sinking Races
Students build plankton models and compete to see which sinks most slowly. They write, or orally present ,the adaptations they incorporated to slow the sinking rate of their organisms. Race results can be grounds for some prizes!
Curated OER
The Living Environment
Sixth graders show what they know about plant and animal cells. In this cell project lesson, 6th graders get to choose a project based on their learning style. They can create a visual representation of cells, auditory forms, or build a...
Curated OER
Cell City Analogy
In this worksheet, students will use an analogy to review the various parts of a cell.
Curated OER
Building a Model DNA
Middle schoolers explain the function of DNA in the body. In this biology lesson, students build a DNA model using simple materials. They demonstrate how bases pair up in the helix.
Serendip
How Do Biological Organisms Use Energy?
When an organism eats, how does food become energy? Young biologists follow glucose through the process of cellular respiration to the creation of ADP using a discussion-based activity. The resource also highlights conservation of mass...
Curated OER
Heating and Cooling a Really Large Lizard
Remind your middle school scientists how fox ear size varies depending on the climate they live in; large ears allow heat loss while small ears keep heat in. Discuss how a cold-blooded animal might try to regulate body temperature. Then...
Curated OER
Genetics and Heredity: The Next Generation
Tenth graders work in teams to order events of DNA transcription and translation protein synthesis. In the second lesson plan, they put the steps of mitosis and meiosis in order using a concept map poster. They use modeling clay to...
Curated OER
Atomic Structure and Bonding
Eighth graders discuss and write about what led up to the discovery of the atom. Students label proton, nucleus, electron, and neutron in their notes. Students take notes on electron shells and how different atoms have different...
Teach Engineering
Processes on Complex Networks
Introduces your class to random processes in networks with an activity that uses information about disease spread using the susceptible, infectious, resistant (SIR) model. Participants determine whether a susceptible person becomes...
Concord Consortium
Boards IV
Build a connection between algebraic sequences and spreadsheets. Learners examine a specific folding pattern and convert the pattern into a spreadsheet. The goal of the spreadsheet is to produce a sequence of a specific pattern modeled...
EngageNY
Scale Drawings
Are you searching for a purpose for geometric constructions? Use an engaging approach to explore dilations. Scholars create dilations using a construction method of their choice. As they build their constructed dilation, they strengthen...
Curated OER
Build a Polyp
Students research coral polyps. In this coral polyps lesson, students discover the anatomy of a coral polyp and how they feed. Students create an edible coral polyp model.
Virginia Department of Education
DNA Structure, Nucleic Acids, and Proteins
What is in that double helix? Explain intricate concepts with a variety of creative activities in a lesson that incorporates multiple steps to cover DNA structure, nucleic acids, and proteins. Pupils explore the history of DNA structure,...
Mathematics Vision Project
Quadratic Functions
Inquiry-based learning and investigations form the basis of a deep understanding of quadratic functions in a very thorough unit plan. Learners develop recursive and closed methods for representing real-life situations, then apply these...
Curated OER
PBS - Scientific American Frontier:Affairs of the Heart:Teaching Guide:Exploring Vessel Physics
Students explore the relationship between pressure and vessel diameter. They are given an open-ended design challenge in which they engineer their own remote repair device. Students see a model that represents how elevated blood...
Curated OER
Hearing and Sound
Students construct a model of the ear to learn the parts of the ear. In this ear lesson plan, students build a model and use a poster to determine the structures and functions of each structure in the ear.
Curated OER
The Challenge to Deliver Insulin
Students study the types of diabetes and why insulin is important. In this diabetes lesson students build molecular models and create a healthy lifestyle plan.
Curated OER
Building a Clay Neuron
Middle schoolers investigate and then build neurons in this lesson. They are examined as key parts of the brain and nervous system and seen as different from normal cells.
Curated OER
Building a Clay Neuron
Students examine the anatomy of a neuron and its physiology. In this neuron lesson students build a representative model of a biological structure.
Curated OER
Building a Circulation City
Students identify the different organ systems found throughout the human body. Using a model, they explain and draw the flow of blood and name the parts of the circulatory system. They create their own circulation city in which to show...
Curated OER
Bridge Design and Bridge Building
Seventh graders conduct an investigation into the design of bridges and their construction. Students design bridges and draw detailed plans. For assessment they construct a model of a bridge that is made entirely of toothpicks. Students...
Curated OER
DNA Models
Students construct paper model of the DNA molecule. In this genetics lesson, students assemble paper parts that represent nucleotides into a DNA molecule. Extension ideas are also provided.
Teach Engineering
Android Acceleration
Prepare to accelerate your Android. Pupils prep for the upcoming activity in this third installment of a four-part series. The lesson progresses nicely by first introducing different types of acceleration to the class. The teacher...