Students create a model of a glacier and observe how it moves. In this landforms lesson, students learn what a glacier is, build a model glacier and observe how it moves in a manner that more closely resembles a liquid than a solid.

First graders compare plant samples obtained from two different sites to explore how climate affects plants.

Students sequence the steps leading to the formation of rain, and design a model to represent these steps. This task assesses students' abilities to classify, generalize, infer, interpret and communicate data, and construct a pictorial...

Students discover how light reflects off surfaces. In this hands-on demonstration, students examine how variations in color are produced by light interference.

Students identify local watersheds and drainage areas by using maps and other resources. They are given copies of the water cycle. Students discuss the movement of water in the environment. They observe, record and transfer information...

Students take an imaginary journey through the water cycle. In this water cycle lesson, students identify the various parts of the water cycle, listen while their teacher leads them on an imaginary journey through the water cycle, and...

Students write a report about energy use. In this conservation lesson, students interview adults about their use of renewable and nonrenewable energy. Students synthesize this information and write a report from the point of view of a...

Fifth graders are presented with three rocks and a variety of tools and are asked to investigate the properties of the rocks to see which rock is best for building tables and benches for a museum picnic area.

Students study four samples of "rain water". They asked to determine the pH of the samples and then to neutralize them. Students are asked to predict any negative effects which might be associated with water having a low pH and to...

Students observe the melting of ice. In this phase change lesson plan, students observe ice as it melts. They discuss the process and create a Venn diagram comparing water and ice.

Students explore coffee production.  In this cross-curriculum rainforest ecology activity, students research regions where coffee comes from and investigate how the native birds in the rainforest are effected by coffee...

In this tundra worksheet, students read about tundras and the plants and animals that live in tundras. They then use what they learned to answer the 10 questions on the page. The answers are on the last page.

Fourth graders are introduced to the concept of ecosystem; specifically, the interrelationships among plants and animals within an ecosystem, and their relationships to the environment in which they live and interact.

Learners list reasons why water is important and investigate and graph the freezing points of different solutions.

Students compare the properties of rocks. They identify objects made of rocky materials such as walls, sidewalks, etc. Students describe and group rocks based on their characteristics.

Students identify the external features of the earthworm. They view a video about different features of an earthworm. They research information about annelids on the Internet. They compare and contrast the earthworm with another annelid.

Fourth graders create two dioramas out of household materials to compare the influence of various factors that impact climate. Each group discuss how the change in factors influenced the climate, flora, and fauna of their area.

Students explore volcanoes, locate them on maps, record general information about volcanoes, and organize information on a fact sheet.

Students discuss core samples. In this environment lesson, students experiment discovering what is beneath the surface by using cupcakes as models finding out what sort of layers are found within the cupcakes.

Students build a model aquifer to study groundwater zones and water table formation. Students use the models to measure the movement of polluted groundwater.

Students demonstrate and understanding of the nitrogen cycle by taking roles and interacting with others in a simulation activity.

Fourth graders create a biome of their choosing in a terrarium. Terrariums are observed and results recorded daily for 2 weeks. They observe/record changes in the water within their terrarium and use the data to write sentences...

Students predict from a rock sample whether a water well could be drilled in that type of rock. They predict what conditons would be necessary for the well to produce water.

Fourth graders examine the effects of waves as they erode coastal land. They discover how the power of water can change the appearance of land formations.