Students investigate thinning trees and why they are important to the forest.  In this sustainable environment lesson, students role-play as if they are trees in the forest and simulate the overcrowding and inability to move spaces,...

Students review the characteristics of wetlands and list their benefits. After viewing short videos, they identify the organims that make their home in wetlands and how they have adapted. They compare and contrast the characteristics...

Middle schoolers develop a scaled down model of the solar system. In small groups, they calculate the scaled-down diameters of the planets and the sun, the scaled-down distance of the planets from the sun, complete two charts, and...

Young scholars experience an archaeological dig exploring off the shore of Black Hawk Island and Wisconsin River. They study in the same place where the infamous Dell House once stood. Dell House and its historical significance is...

Young scholars explain how the food chain works. They contrast predators with prey and describe their function in nature. Students discuss how the food chain aids in keeping nature balanced. In small groups, they play a game that...

Students use technology and listening skills to explore the sounds of their environment. In this environment observation lesson, students read Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear? in order to identify the sounds in the story; these...

In this weather report worksheet, students complete a weather report on their favorite season in a group. Students observe and evaluate, complete a table for the report, and present it in a group.

Second graders identify at least four energy sources through sensory experiences.

Students use easily obtained materials to study ecological succession in a microbiological community. This investigation is appropriate for a variety of age groups. Elementary Students be fascinated by the changes occurring over time...

Young scholars are introduced to raptors and their role in the environment. They identify three characteristics of raptors and list several types of raptors found in nature. They discuss their positive and negative experiences with...

Students identify the various adaptations of reptiles and amphibians. After distinguishing between reptiles and amphibians, students discuss the ways in which their adaptations aid in their survival. They participate in a hands on...

Students explain how moon phases occur. They explain three ways that the night sky has been used through history. Students locate some of the constellations in the night sky. They discuss stories and myths surrounding stars.

Students are introduced to the components and importance of the water cycle. They are shown how groundwater moves using a model. Students list 9 places on earth where water is found. They define the terms cycle and water cycle.

In this KWL chart worksheet, students fill in this graphic organizer about living and non-living things. Students complete 3 sections in the chart.

Students investigate the habits of animals by studying their prints.  In this animal life lesson, students investigate the different types of tracks left from animals by researching the Internet.  Students utilize clay or...

Students explore reasons why the dinosaurs became extinct, and the specific needs (habitat, environment, food) of individual types of dinosaurs.

Students explain the relationship of plants and animals in the environment. They name the basic requirements for plant growth and define the terms photosynthesis, stomata, chlorophyll and xylem.

Students discuss ten important Pennsylvania hardwood trees, examine characteristics of each tree species, evaluate economic and ecological importance of hardwood trees, and recognize at least two characteristics of each species.

Second graders investigate the concept of sounds in nature. The sound of a coqui frog is used as an example. They identify species of frogs by listening to the sounds they make. Also, 2nd graders experience and identify other sounds of...

Students conduct research to find references to plants or animals and their uses by Lewis & Clark's Corps of Discovery by using materials available such as journals, books, internet sources, library materials. Groups create a...

Students collect samples of rainfall, cloud condensation, and water that trickles through the soil. These samples are tested for pH, conductivity, and the presence of sulfates, nitrates, calcium, and magnesium.

Young scholars create multi-sensory scavenger hunt worksheet to be used on a scavenger hunt throughout the schoolyard habitat area to introduce students to concepts of biodiversity and interdependence within a habitat.

Learners explore reaction rates of an enzyme-mediated reaction. They examine the effects of environmental variables on enzyme function. Students collect, graph, and analyze data relating to the reaction.

Students explore canoes and kayaks. In this canoe and kayak instructional activity, students research the history, parts, and sport of the canoe and kayak.  Students then practice how to use a paddle for each boat, and go on a field...