Students observe wild-oat seeds. For this biology lesson, students watch how wild-oat seeds react to moisture and draw conclusions and make predictions.

Students conduct a flame test on different substances. In this chemistry lesson, students predict the element present based on the color emitted during the flame test. They explain how different elements produce different colors.

Seventh graders define density in their own words. In this physics lesson, 7th graders solve density problems using its mathematical formula. They explain why some objects flow and some sink.

Fourth graders use colored beads in two problems and explore the use of proportional reasoning as a problem solving method. Working Students, in groups, explain their reasoning strategies orally, and through drawings.

Learners observe an experiment where a pot of ice is held over a pot of boiling water. They predict what will happen and then share what they see as the experiment takes place. Then the concept of condensation and precipitation is...

Learners participate in an experiment in which they investigate the factors affecting the levels of nitrates in groundwater. Using examples, they explain the nitrogen cycle and identify the sources of chemical nitrogen fertilizers. ...

Students explain how immunizing a significant proportion of a population against a disease prevents epidemics of the disease (herd immunity). They list factors that affect the proportion of a population that must be immunized to prevent...

Students investigate the length of various objects. In this measurement lesson plan, students convert one metric unit to another. They explain the importance of a uniform system of measurement.

Fourth graders suggest ways paper and other natural resources can be used and recycled in the classroom. Students conduct a investigation into paper use and make distinctions among observations, conclusions (inferences), and predictions.

Students predict what will happen to ice when salt is put on it. They make observations and discuss what actually happened to the ice. They relate their experiment to the salt trucks they see on the street.

Students identify native and introduced species of fish, shellfish and insects that inhabit Hawaii's streams. They use this information to predict the impact of stream restoration projects in Hawaii.

Fifth graders observe experiments with ice and water. They complete a Venn diagram listing the properties of each. They experiment with ice and water, comparing their weights. They note the weights are equal.

Students classify objects that are similar by one attribute. They explain what a pattern is and how to make a pattern using objects.

Fourth graders research the need to prepared for a severe weather event. They select one type of weather condition and explain how to be prepared in a report.

Students discuss what man-made and natural materials are visible in litter. Using a sample of litter, they review the concept of decomposition between the two types of materials. They examine the two samples once and a while and record...

Fifth graders identify and compare the features of The World Almanac for Kids in the print form and in the CD-ROM/ on-line form. They predict which format is the easiest to access and the most informative, then draw conclusions from...

Fifth graders design a brochure that identifies types of solid waste that are often improperly disposed, explains the effects of this disposal and proposes a solution to the problem. The read humorous books, define vocabulary words and...

Students compare current geological map and the one from 1800's. In this earth science lesson, students discuss differences between the two and explain the factors that caused the change. They write an essay about how these changes...

Students explain what factors determine density. In this physics lesson, students hypothesize which objects are less dense. They cite the importance of density in everyday life.

Students determine the average mass of a new element using masses from three isotopes. In this chemistry instructional activity, students explain what an isotope is. They discuss their importance and uses.

Focus on inquiry-based learning in your science class with a series of activities designed for middle schoolers. A helpful packet samples four different texts, which include activities about predator-prey relationships, Earth's axis...

Students check and record the weather first thing each morning in their weather journals.

Your class might be surprised to learn that mirrors have been around since the first century AD! Young scientists explore reflection and refraction of light through a series of challenges. They use this knowledge to design their own...

Define and write proverbs! Learners define proverbs, use the Internet to find weather-related proverbs, and talk with their parents to learn other proverbs. There's a well-structured worksheet included here.