Learners investigate how fuel amount affects the distance traveled by balloons. In this physics lesson, students collect data and create a pictograph. They interpret data and formulate a conclusion.

Astronauts train underwater to simulate the change in gravity. An out-of-this-world unit includes three hands-on activities, one teacher demonstration, and a discussion related to some of the challenges astronauts face. Scholars apply...

Planning an elementary science unit has never been simpler! These twelve lessons guide young scientists through an exploration of simple machines and their many uses in the real world before asking them to apply their learning...

Fifth graders utilize basic physics concepts to calculate speed of an object set in motion from various heights. In this basic physics lesson plan, 5th graders make observations, calculations, record data, and conclusions throughout...

Sixth graders use prior knowledge to create a tri-fold study guide using Microsoft Publisher (if available). They include real world examples that show balanced and unbalanced forces, kinetic and potential energy, and vocabulary. The...

Students explore the concept of acceleration. They determine the acceleration rate of a roller-blader and graph the results.

Students investigate the properties of air by capturing it, squeezing it, and feeling its weight. In this forces lesson, students capture bags of air and examine its properties. The weight and pressure of air is emphasized.

Groups design the ultimate roller coaster by considering potential and kinetic energy. They test their designs using marbles and then go on to rate each group's design based on aesthetics, loop diameter, and cost.

This worksheet would make a nifty quiz on the laws of thermodynamics. Nine multiple choice questions assess high schoolers' understanding of energy transfer, specific heat capacity, phase change, fusion, and vaporization. It is short but...

After reading about marine engineers and naval architects, it's all hands on deck to design and test a speed boat. This lesson is designed for the Next Generation Science Standards in engineering and can be a centerpiece for a STEM...

Seventh graders explore the Laws of Motion. They define friction and explain the concept of inertia. Students explain what happens when a force is exerted on an object that is in equilibrium. They state the second and third laws of motion.

Students research physical science by completing worksheets. In this gravity lesson, students read assigned text regarding the rotation of Earth and the gravitational force caused by the speed of which it rotates. Students complete a...

Students investigate the pulling force of CEENBoT. In this physics activity, students suggest modifications to increase the kinetic coefficient of friction and eventually the pulling force. They write a complete lab report about the...

Students explore Newton's three laws of motion using a variety of activities. In this physics lesson plan, students calculate the average speed of a vehicle they constructed using distance and time information. They identify and draw the...

Students investigate the effect of thin films to surface friction. In this physics instructional activity, students calculate the coefficient of friction using mathematical formulas. They discuss its importance in their everyday lives.

First graders discuss work, force, and energy. They study how work is done. Students discuss various types of work that are done. They act out how work is done. Student draw pictures of types of work they have done.

Pupils determine the force of a helium balloon that allows it to rise a specific distance.  In this helium lesson students calculate the amount of paper needed to construct a weight and determine the density of a piece of paper. 

Students observe what happens when sugar is dissolved in water and when it is heated. They weigh the products after each of the two experiments on a balance scale. Pupils distinguish between physical and chemical changes. Students are...

Students are introduced to basic aerodynamics through a discussion of thrust and drag and a hands-on activity. They examine the forces of thrust, drag, air pressure, aerodynamic shapes and Newton's Third Law Of Motion.

Students compare and contrast the terms "weight" and "mass". In this physics activity, students observe an experiment in which objects are placed on a balance scale and weighed under different circumstances. Partners drop items and...

Students use the design process to investigate physical science.  In this force and motion instructional activity, design a track to achieve a specified outcome. Students complete additional experiments with speed and...

Students investigate the relationship between shape of object and moment of inertia. In this physics instructional activity, students collect data from the experiment and use spreadsheet to graph them. They discuss how load affects...

Students experiment to develop understanding of Newton's Laws and how they apply to space travel in this ten day lesson sequence.

Seventeen pages of material leave you well-prepared to carry out this instructional activity on levers and pulleys. Photos and diagrams make the instructions clear; resource links provide additional information. The missing aspects of...