In this energy activity, students read about the discoveries of Galileo and how different philosophers contributed to our understanding of energy. Then students complete 4 short answer questions.

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

Students construct their own magnet and wire device. In this inquiry lesson, students investigate the factors affecting the strength of magnetic forces. They manipulate different variable to determine their effect.

Students discuss how simple machines have made our lives easier and construct a compound machine. In this machines lesson plan, students watch a video on machines, look at websites, and follow task cards in order to make a simple machine.

Students create a rocket using Alka-seltzer of baking soda and vinegar. In this physics instructional activity, students identify the factors affecting the length of time the rocket is propelled. They relate this activity to actual...

Students study how forces are applied in the creation of art. They design mobiles and pop-up books while identifying which forces of nature act upon them. They look at air currents, gravity, and hand movement.

Students investigate how force works to propel rockets into outer space. In this physics lesson, students use a drinking straw, fishing line, a balloon, and tape to explore how force works in outer space. Students repeat the experiment...

Students explore the physical properties of water.  In this water lesson, students observe, measure, and describe water as it changes state. There are 2 extensions for this lesson that one can access via the Internet links provided.

Students investigate how adding more pulleys affect the pulling power. In this physics lesson, students explain how pulleys work. They compare the work done by robots with and without pulleys.

Students investigate the force of compression and how it acts on structural components through a hands-on group project. They use everyday products such as paper, toothpicks, and tape to construct a structure that will support the...

Students investigate buoyancy, displacement and density.  In this flotation lesson students study the Archimedes' Principle, analyze data and draw conclusions. 

Students work with a partner to determine the identity of an unknown element based on given descriptions. Groups use classroom textbooks, encyclopedias, and science internet sites to identify their unknown element then write a report as...

Students working in small groups will build tractors. They must design a tractor that is able to pull various weights.

In this space flight activity, students will review physics terms relating to space which includes measuring the distance of space objects, how rockets work, and electromagnetic waves. This activity has 10 terms in a crossword puzzle, 6...

Students make glurch using materials provided. In this chemistry lesson, students identify the physical properties of glurch. They compare its properties to commercially prepared ones.

Students identify racial stereotypes in advertisements from the past and survey their sources and implications. They compare advertisements from the past with those of today using similar approaches and create an original advertisement...

Third graders explore different careers by discussing which community helpers might be considered local heroes. In this career exploration lesson, 3rd graders work in small groups to discuss why certain people are considered...

Students compare different types of pressure sensitive adhesive tapes. They fevelop and carry out tests for variables affecting the force needed to peel tape off a surface. Students analyze the time needed to peel the tape with different...

Learners participate in a culminating activity for a unit on Energy and Simple Machines. They are challenged to incorporate simple machines in to a complex mechanical system. While designing and testing their machine they will also...

Students examine how gravity affects launching rockets into space. For this physical science lesson, students review the concept of gravity and use an interactive online site, "Gravity Launch," to simulate a rocket launch.

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

Students investigate how engineers use different types of bridges for different places. In small groups they design and construct bridges for three different scenarios, and answer a series of investigating questions applied to the...

Young scholars study the concepts of motion, velocity, and acceleration through graphing their own movement using LoggerPro. They explain the difference between speed and velocity using the weather vane example. They discover the...

Middle schoolers explore the different features of a roller coaster using an interactive website. In this physical science lesson, students explain the role of science to make this thrill ride possible. They develop a creative...