Alabama Learning Exchange
How Old Is That Tree?
Fifth graders study environmental changes by examining the annual rings of a cross-section of a tree trunk. They access websites to complete a worksheet on the parts of a tree. They count the annual rings on a tree slice while observing...
Curated OER
Integrated Social Studies and Cooking Lesson
Fourth graders study the Civil War and discuss what soldiers ate during that time period. In groups, representing Union and Confederate soldiers, they follow recipes, prepare, eat, and share Union hardtack and Confederate Johnnie Cakes.
Curated OER
Making It Balance
Students listen to story, "The 100-Pound Problem," compare their weight with character in story, and weigh different classroom items using nonstandard units and standard units. They experiment with different items that can make scale...
Alabama Learning Exchange
Keep It Movin'!
Learners conduct an experiment to study friction. They complete a KWL chart on friction and conduct an activity about the amount of friction on a moving object. To conclude, pupils create a table or graph of the data collected and they...
Curated OER
Geoboard Area
Students explore the basic geometric shapes and geometric shape vocabulary through the use of geoboards and virtual geoboards. They create a variety of shapes with a partner, build ten different rectangles on their geoboards, and...
Discovery Education
Architects in Action
Hands-on and real-world applications are great ways to teach mathematical concepts. Creative thinkers examine how ratios are used to create scale models of buildings and structures. They practice working with ratios by looking at a map...
Willow Tree
Perimeter of Common Geometric Figures
Help learners understand that perimeter and circumference are one in the same. Learners apply their skills to determine the perimeter/circumference of triangles, rectangles, and circles. They then use the same strategy to find the...
Curated OER
Mapping the Bone Field: An Area and Scale Exercise
Here is an excellent cross-curricular lesson. Learners relate multiplication to area by making a grid on graph paper, and then creating the same grid in real space outside in the school yard.
Curated OER
Know Your Angles
Explore types of angles and the characteristics of each. After observing a PowerPoint Presentation, learners tour the school facilities and use a digital camera to capture prescribed angles. Using the digital pictures and written...
Curated OER
Comparing and Ordering Fractions, Mixed Numbers, and Decimals
Create your own fraction kits by folding and labeling paper using fraction vocabulary. Learners then work in groups to use these in comparing and sequencing both whole numbers and fractions. They also create unit cubes and develop an...
Curated OER
Busted Bubbles
Using the scientific method, and bubble gum, learners conduct a motivating experiment. After conducting a series of tests involving bubble gum, they graph and analyze their results. This is the type of activity everyone loves.
Curated OER
Those Vexing Variables
Students recognize dependent and independent variables in an experiment by practicing manipulation of variables; students practice designing experiments that contain the two types of variables.
Exploratorium
Rotating String Shapes
Here is a very interesting way of studying triangles and polygons. Pupils work together and use pieces of string to create a variety of shapes. Depending on how many kids are manipulating the string at any one time, the number of...
Curated OER
Fractions in Action
Investigate equivalent fractions with your class. They compare and order fractions. Then they work cooperatively in groups to experiment and problem solve with fractions using a game format. Multiple resources are provided.
Scholastic
Discussion and Dissection of an Owl Pellet
Young scientists get the chance to dissect pellets "owl" by themselves to determine the owls environment and nourishment. This is the third part of a three-part series.
Cornell University
Investigating and Modeling Hardness
Model hardness testing with a self-designed hardness test. Young scholars rate the hardness of different types of aspirin using the Vicker's Hardness scale. They then relate hardness to the solubility of each aspirin tablet.
Alabama Learning Exchange
Density
Students observe a demonstration of regular soda versus diet soda. In this exploring density instructional activity students complete a lab on density and present a PowerPoint presentations of their results.
Curated OER
Geometry in Nature
Students examine how the circumference, diameter, and the relationship of Pi of a circle are related. They count the summer rings of a tree to determine its growth.
Alabama Learning Exchange
Investigating Friction
Young learners explore friction. They view a video or DVD (bibliography provided) and define terms related to friction, and work in groups to experiment with the effects of friction on speed and motion using ramps and toy cars.
Curated OER
My Science Box
Students investigate snails and their physical and behavioral characteristics. In this investigative lesson plan students create a pie chart to show the results of their findings.
Curated OER
Understanding Cloud Formation
Learners view a demonstration that simulates cloud formation. They read a poem about clouds, participate in a class demonstration using warm water and ice and write a paragraph summarizing their observations.
Curated OER
Exploring Indiana's Natural Resources
Fourth graders complete a variety of activities as they study the European exploration of the Midwest, focusing on Indiana. They map the path explorers took, comparing the British with the French. They research why the explorers stopped...
Curated OER
Tally Time
Learners create a tally chart. In this math and health instructional activity, students discuss healthy foods and create a tally chart showing the number of learners who like to eat healthy foods.
Curated OER
Plastic Packaging
Students collect data. In this math instructional activity, students collect data about recyclable materials. Students develop a plan that will help the environment. Recycling plastic containers is discussed.