Young scholars describe the science of physics. In this Physics activity, students observe examples of physics within their classroom. Young scholars create a definition for physics.

Students apply the principles of chemistry to investigate the concept of how a hydrogen powered car works. They study the electrochemical reactions that provide the energy source. Students also record observations in the functioning of a...

Eighth graders investigate objects for a specific element from the Periodic Table.  In this elemental photography lesson, 8th graders observe for and object and photograph it. Students use photographs to prepare a multimedia...

Students analyze data taken from proteomic experiments. In this biology lesson plan, students explain the importance of bioinformatics tools in the study of proteins. They evaluate scientific results using math and computer software.

High schoolers explore the nature of water and water molecules. They examine the role of ice on organisms.

Students analyze the amount of space required to pack round objects. In this geometry lesson, students practice using space economically by practicing packing spheres into beakers. They then translate this concept to molecules being...

Students see that the production and use of nuclear energy has been both praised and condemned as a source of electrical power for our daily living. They examine the reasons for the conflict of opinions in our society.

Students study polyatomic ions and write binary and ternary ionic chemical formulas. They explore putting together different monatomic ions and coming up with as many chemical formulas as possible. They play a game similar to memory...

Students use the topic of sunscreen to explore the "issues related to size and scale" as energy and matter interact. They compare the visible opacity of different substances to their ability to block ultraviolet radiation.

Students explain how elements are arranged in the periodic table. In this chemistry lesson plan, students group the eggs according to a certain pattern. They compare this to elements in the periodic table.   

Young scholars examine how nuclear reactions differ from other chemical reactions they have studied. They add up atomic masses of both the product and reactant side of an example of uranium decomposition, demonstrating mass loss involved.

Students study the difference between types of ionizing radiation and how elements are transmuted. They determine that radiation is normal and surrounds us. They calculate the amounts of alpha, beta and gamma radiation emitted from a...

Students define vocabulary related to the parts of the atom.  In this matter instructional activity, students navigate the web to find the structure and the forces that affect atoms.  Students complete an experiment with...

Students create a template document that contains a 6-column/6-row rubric structure. They modify their template to include scoring categories or criteria, and scoring characteristics for a specific assignment.

Learners create a standard outline, using a word processing tool, while they are learning about the basic writing device of the 5 paragraph essay.

Learners describe how elements are arranged on the periodic table. They compare metals, nonmetals, and metalloids based on their properties and on their locations in the periodic table. Students describe the differences between a...

Young scholars discuss the importance of examining crystals and experiment growing them. In groups, they complete a project in which they use groups in geometry just like crystallographers. They practice solving the groups and proofs...

Middle schoolers participate in an Electron Square Dance in which they act the part of atoms. They follow the structure of different atoms suggested by the teacher.

Students take on the role of members of a concerned citizens group and discuss the transportation of spent-fuel rods from a local nuclear power plant and the safety issues that surround the power plant. Students work in groups to write...

Students examine the electromagnetic spectrum and demonstrate the elements within.  In this investigative lesson plan students complete a demonstration and calculate the energy of a photon. 

Tenth graders distinguish between chemical and physical properties and changes in matter when given specific examples. They view a video of sports activities. Students chose their favorite sport and design an experiment to improve sports...

Students build a model of an atom using an online program. In this chemistry lesson, students discuss the different parts of the atom. They complete an independent research about their chosen element.

Students work in small groups with a small set of 8 nuts and 5 bolts to assemble into combinations of 1 nut: 1 bolt, and 2 nuts: 1 bolt. They explore the outcome and discuss. Then a student mixes two clear, colorless solutions together...

Students investigate the physical and chemical characteristics of minerals. They make a list of the uses of minerals found in Illinois. They write a report individually based on their observations.