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Affinity - Canva
Grades
6 to 12
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Affinity is a free professional design application that combines photo editing, vector illustration, and page layout tools into a single downloadable program for Windows and macOS....more
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Affinity is a free professional design application that combines photo editing, vector illustration, and page layout tools into a single downloadable program for Windows and macOS. Students and teachers can use its Pixel, Vector, and Layout studios to edit photographs, create original graphics and logos, design posters or infographics, and produce polished multi-page publications such as newsletters, brochures, and portfolios. Its layer-based tools and customizable workspace make it a strong option for digital art, media, and presentation projects, particularly when students need more precise design controls than a basic online creation tool provides. The core software is free, although some Canva AI features available within Affinity may require a Pro Canva plan, which is free for educators by enrolling in Canva for Education, reviewed here.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (356), editing (99), graphic design (57)
In the Classroom
Have students turn research from a science, social studies, or health unit into an infographic. They combine a clear title, concise facts, icons, charts, and visuals to teach classmates about topics such as ecosystems, weather, inventions, or historical events. After reading a novel or biography, have students redesign the book cover to show important themes, symbols, setting details, and character traits. They can write a short artist's statement explaining how each visual choice connects to the text. Have students use teacher-approved images to create a visual essay on a school, community, science, or social studies topic. They can edit images, arrange them on a page, and add captions that tell a clear story or support a central idea.You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
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The Past and The Curious - Mick Sullivan
Grades
2 to 8
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Bring surprising stories from history into the classroom with The Past and The Curious, a history podcast created especially for kids and families. Host Mick Sullivan uses storytelling,...more
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Bring surprising stories from history into the classroom with The Past and The Curious, a history podcast created especially for kids and families. Host Mick Sullivan uses storytelling, humor, historical context, guest voices, and original music to explore well-known events, as well as people and stories that students may not encounter in traditional history materials. Episodes span American and world history and have covered topics such as the Declaration of Independence, the 27th Amendment, inventors, transportation, women's history, animals in history, and unusual historical events. The Episodes page archives past programs, and the creator also maintains themed episode suggestions for educators. Episodes are generally released monthly and commonly run about 30 minutes.
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tag(s): american revolution (99), animals (282), authors (116), declaration of independence (26), enrichment (20), nutrition (138), plants (142), podcasts (185), sports (93)
In the Classroom
Have students listen to an episode related to a current history unit and record three key facts, one surprising detail, and one question they still want to investigate. Have students place the people, discoveries, conflicts, or events from an episode in chronological context with the Timeline Tool by ReadWriteThink, reviewed here, then explain which events were causes, turning points, or consequences. Have students choose an unusual person or event from local, national, or world history, research it carefully, and script their own concise history segment modeled on the podcast's "You Have 30 Seconds" activity. The podcast specifically encourages children to write and read their own 30-second historical segments, with a parent or guardian handling the recording and emailing the work to the show if submitted.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Soar - Teaching Ideas
Grades
K to 5
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Soar from Teaching Ideas pairs an imaginative animated short film with classroom activities for students ages 5-11. The story follows a young inventor who helps a tiny pilot repair...more
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Soar from Teaching Ideas pairs an imaginative animated short film with classroom activities for students ages 5-11. The story follows a young inventor who helps a tiny pilot repair her flying machine, introducing themes of perseverance, creativity, problem-solving, and cooperation. Teachers can use the suggested questions and activities to strengthen prediction, inference, descriptive writing, storytelling, design, and STEM skills across several subject areas.
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tag(s): animation (73), creativity (94), descriptive writing (46), design (77), graphic design (57), images (276), inferencing (9), problem solving (289), STEM (382)
In the Classroom
Students can use Storyboard That, reviewed here to create their own storyboard of the animation. Use Kidrex, reviewed here to learn more about aviation. Students can use Adobe Express Video Maker, reviewed hereto create a movie trailer about an invention or inventor.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Gold Fever and the Bechtler Mint - PBS LearningMedia
Grades
4 to 8
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Gold Fever and the Bechtler Mint is an engaging historical video resource that explores America's first gold rush in North Carolina during the early 1800s and the creation of Christopher...more
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Gold Fever and the Bechtler Mint is an engaging historical video resource that explores America's first gold rush in North Carolina during the early 1800s and the creation of Christopher Bechtler's private mint. Through documentary footage, expert interviews, historical reenactments, and clips showing how gold coins were handmade, students gain insight into early American economics, westward expansion, mining history, and entrepreneurship. Teachers can use the video to support lessons in U.S. history, economics, geography, and STEM while helping students connect historical events to real-world innovation and trade.
In the Classroom
After viewing the video, have students create a timeline of important events using MyLens, reviewed here that connects to the North Carolina Gold Rush and the Bechtler Mint. Students can include key people, discoveries, inventions, and economic impacts using paper timelines or digital tools. Organize a classroom gold rush simulation where students mine for hidden objects or tokens and trade them for classroom currency. Students can discuss supply and demand, fairness, and the effects of gold on local economies and communities. Ask students to design their own coin inspired by the Bechtler Mint. Students can sketch symbols, slogans, and images that represent their classroom, state, or community, and explain how they chose the symbols.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Magic Science Experiments - Science Fun
Grades
3 to 8
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The Magic Science Experiments page on Science Fun offers a collection of simple, hands-on science activities that may seem magical but rely on real scientific principles. Each experiment...more
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The Magic Science Experiments page on Science Fun offers a collection of simple, hands-on science activities that may seem magical but rely on real scientific principles. Each experiment includes a materials list, step-by-step directions, and an explanation of how the science works, making the activities easy for teachers to use in the classroom or for students to try at home. Topics include force and motion, air pressure, magnetism, light, and chemical reactions, with experiments such as making objects float, bending light, or creating non-Newtonian liquids. The site is designed to make science fun and engaging while helping students understand the concepts behind the demonstrations. If your district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): air (26), chemicals (37), experiments (67), forces (48), light (61), magnetism (40), motion (57)
In the Classroom
Choose one magic science experiment and have students perform it in small groups. After completing the activity, students can write or discuss why the trick worked using the science explanation provided on the site. Before experimenting, ask students to predict what will happen. After the experiment, students can compare their predictions to the results and explain what they learned. After trying a few experiments, challenge students to invent their own "magic trick" that uses a real science idea. Students can explain the science behind their trick and demonstrate it for the class.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Sparky - Google Arts & Culture
Grades
3 to 8
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Discover your inventor alter-ego with Sparky and AI by turning everyday objects into wacky inventions. Begin by launching the experiment and selecting the type of invention from the...more
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Discover your inventor alter-ego with Sparky and AI by turning everyday objects into wacky inventions. Begin by launching the experiment and selecting the type of invention from the three options: food, music, or travel. Follow the prompts to arrange objects and describe your invention, and Sparky will create your prototype. After completing three inventions, your inventor alter ego will be revealed and direct you to learn more about them on Google Arts & Culture. Use links to download your inventions after completing all three activities.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (356), creativity (94), inventors and inventions (88), STEM (382)
In the Classroom
Use Sparky to engage students when studying the history of innovation, simple machines, or persuasive writing. Use this tool to enhance a science unit on forces and motion by having students prototype a new vehicle for a specific environment. After Sparky generates the visual prototype, students can extend the activity by importing their invention's image into Canva for Education, reviewed here to design a professional marketing poster or a technical manual explaining how the invention works. Extend learning by including the entire class in a peer-review process, and have students post their final designs to a Padlet Gallery Walk, reviewed here where they can comment on the feasibility of each other's wacky inventions.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Let's Learn About the Science of the Winter Olympics - Science News Explores
Grades
5 to 8
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The Science News Explores article "Let's learn about the science of the Winter Olympics" introduces students to the scientific concepts behind winter sports, showing how physics and...more
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The Science News Explores article "Let's learn about the science of the Winter Olympics" introduces students to the scientific concepts behind winter sports, showing how physics and chemistry influence performance (like ski wax and equipment stiffness) while also connecting to broader environmental issues like climate change that could impact the future of snowy competitions. Written in accessible language with engaging examples, the piece helps make real-world science relevant through the lens of the Olympic Games and supports classroom connections to STEM topics such as physics, chemistry, and Earth science. If your district blocks YouTube, then the videos may not be viewable.
In the Classroom
Students create an infographic or poster using paper or Canva for Education, reviewed here showing how science helps athletes perform better and stay safe in winter sports. Students can invent a new winter sport or improve an existing one using science concepts such as friction, aerodynamics, and insulation. They can present designs with explanations. Have students create an infographic or poster showing how science helps athletes perform better and stay safe in winter sports. Create infographics using this digital tool, Infographics Presentation Templates, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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InsideU - Renee Crown Wellness Institute
Grades
2 to 6
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InsideU is an award-winning social and emotional learning (SEL) web experience developed by the Renee Crown Wellness Institute at the University of Colorado Boulder. It uses themes,...more
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InsideU is an award-winning social and emotional learning (SEL) web experience developed by the Renee Crown Wellness Institute at the University of Colorado Boulder. It uses themes, characters, and interactive storytelling inspired by Pixar's Inside Out to help children (especially elementary-aged students) explore their emotions, build emotional awareness, and practice healthy decision-making. The platform blends engaging multimedia with evidence-based SEL tools, making it both fun and educational for use in classrooms, after-school programs, or at home. InsideU has been recognized for excellence in design and academic impact, earning honors such as a Webby Award and a Good Design Award.
tag(s): emotions (77), social and emotional learning (221)
In the Classroom
Set up stations featuring different InsideU characters or emotional scenarios. Have students rotate through stations, identify the emotions the scenarios represent, and discuss what triggers those feelings and how the characters respond. Begin the day with a short InsideU clip or image. Students can write or draw how they are feeling and connect their emotions to the characters, helping normalize emotional awareness and build classroom community. Have students design their own "inside world" by inventing emotion characters, describing their roles, and explaining how they help the student make choices. Create class digital slideshows using Google Slides reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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What If History - Anshumaan Vishnu
Grades
6 to 12
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What If History uses AI to develop timelines to explore alternatives to historical events, technology innovations, or future scenarios? View example scenarios, such as "What if 9/11...more
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What If History uses AI to develop timelines to explore alternatives to historical events, technology innovations, or future scenarios? View example scenarios, such as "What if 9/11 never happened" or "What if smartphones existed in the 1980s," to learn about the site's features. Each generation includes a timeline with distinctive headings such as immediate impact, 10 years later, and global impacts. Generate any scenario by entering a question in the message box and selecting from three output choices - serious, funny, or mixed. Along with a timeline, what if History included the option to generate a scene script that offers a quick look at what this event looks like from different perspectives? Users can share timelines by copying the text or using links to social media platforms.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (356), timelines (60)
In the Classroom
What if History is an excellent resource to promote critical thinking about the consequences of events, either in the past or in the future. Encourage students to think about what life would be like if the sun disappeared or if Edison hadn't invented the lightbulb. Ask students to use comic creation tools like Free Comic Maker by Adobe, reviewed here to create a visual representation of their look at alternatives to history. Use a discussion tool such as Kialo Edu, reviewed here to promote conversations about the pros and cons of the impact of historical events or technology and how life might be different if those events hadn't occurred.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Civics of Technology Curriculum - Civics of Technology
Grades
6 to 12
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Civics of Technology offers a free curriculum that teaches students to think critically about technology and its impact. The curriculum focuses on the organization's core mission, which...more
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Civics of Technology offers a free curriculum that teaches students to think critically about technology and its impact. The curriculum focuses on the organization's core mission, which uses a "technoskeptical" approach that promotes thoughtful questioning on the effects of technology. Included are interactive activities and in-depth lessons on topics such as media literacy and an examination of household technologies. The lessons include a variety of supplemental resources, including videos, Google Slides presentations, and related blog posts. The videos are hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (356), critical thinking (199), inquiry (38), media literacy (138)
In the Classroom
Utilize these free curriculum materials to incorporate media literacy lessons into commonly taught subjects or to develop critical thinking skills. For example, use the "Unfolding a Smartphone" lesson to explore the development of communication methods from the invention of the alphabet to the emergence of smartphones. Use Project Zero Thinking Routines, reviewed here to enhance learning and understanding. Choose from a variety of thinking routines that provide focused activities to guide students in critical thinking and encourage them to consider different viewpoints.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Creating, Imagining, Innovating (Habit of the Mind) - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12
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The Habit of the Mind - Creating, imagining, and innovating is the mindset that keeps learning dynamic and personal, encouraging students to see beyond the "right answer" and explore...more
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The Habit of the Mind - Creating, imagining, and innovating is the mindset that keeps learning dynamic and personal, encouraging students to see beyond the "right answer" and explore the many possible paths to understanding. When we foster this habit, we're giving students permission to take risks, to wonder "what if," and to trust their own creative instincts. It's not about being artistic (though it can be); it's about approaching problems with curiosity and confidence, knowing that original thinking is built through practice, not born from talent alone. The resources in this collection are designed to help you create classroom cultures where experimentation is celebrated, failure is seen as data, and every student learns they have something unique to contribute. Some of the resources shared in this collection include videos, mind-mapping tools, open-ended makerspace challenges, remix and mashup platforms, collaborative whiteboards, random idea generators, digital storyboards, and more! Let's help our students discover that innovation isn't reserved for inventors and entrepreneurs -- it's a mindset available to anyone willing to try a different approach. Let's help them turn "thinking outside the box" into their new daily routine!
tag(s): creativity (94), makerspace (43), thinking skills (137)
In the Classroom
Help your students learn and practice the habits of creating, imagining, and innovating. This list includes resources for all grades. Read each resource's Classroom Use section to learn ways to incorporate the information in your lessons.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Mimo - mimo
Grades
9 to 12
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Mimo is an interactive coding platform that helps users learn programming and build real-world software projects with AI assistance. Formerly Instance.so, the site now redirects to...more
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Mimo is an interactive coding platform that helps users learn programming and build real-world software projects with AI assistance. Formerly Instance.so, the site now redirects to Mimo, where users can build coding skills through step-by-step lessons, hands-on exercises, career paths, and projects. Courses cover programming languages and technologies such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, TypeScript, React, Python, SQL, and Swift. AI-powered tools provide explanations, hints, code assistance, and guidance as users work through activities and create projects. Users can also explore an AI-powered development environment for building complete software projects while reviewing and understanding the generated code. Mimo offers a free Basic plan that includes limited access to courses and career paths on mobile, introductory sections of courses and career paths on the web, and limited access to the AI tutor. Paid Pro and Max plans provide additional lessons, certificates, guided projects, AI features, and other advanced tools.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (356), DAT device agnostic tool (133), data (212), organizational skills (92)
In the Classroom
Students can design and build a personal web-based app to showcase their writing, artwork, STEM projects, or resumes, turning traditional portfolios into interactive digital experiences. In STEM or social studies, challenge students to identify a real-world issue (like recycling, time management, or mental health awareness) and build a simple app that offers a solution. Integrate with business or tech classes by having students invent and prototype a startup idea, using Instance.so to create a functional demo app they can pitch to peers or a mock "Shark Tank" panel. Learners can create educational games or interactive quizzes aligned with science, history, or ELA content, reinforcing learning through design thinking and application.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Native American Inventions That We Still Use Today - San Diego2
Grades
4 to 12
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Imagine a world without aspirin, bridges, or syringes--many of these innovations have roots in Indigenous innovation. The article "Native American Inventions That We Still Use Today"...more
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Imagine a world without aspirin, bridges, or syringes--many of these innovations have roots in Indigenous innovation. The article "Native American Inventions That We Still Use Today" from SD2 explores remarkable contributions by Native American communities that have shaped modern life in ways often overlooked. From suspension bridges crafted from woven grass to natural remedies and early contraceptive methods, this resource sheds light on the sophisticated science and practical problem-solving of Native peoples. It's a powerful tool for teachers looking to highlight the lasting impact of Native American innovation in STEM and social studies classrooms.
tag(s): inventors and inventions (88), native americans (169), STEM (382)
In the Classroom
Set up small stations where students explore simplified versions of Native inventions (e.g., bridge-building with string and sticks, examining plant-based remedies). Have them rotate and reflect on how each item serves a purpose today. Have students compare one Native American invention with a similar invention from another culture. Create a Venn diagram using Whimsical Mind Maps, reviewed here and discuss what materials were used, why the invention was needed, and how culture shaped the design. Students choose one invention from the article and create a display poster showing its origin, the problem it solved, and its modern-day equivalent or use.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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10 Native American and Indigenous inventions that changed the world - Vincent Schilling
Grades
4 to 12
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This video offers a captivating exploration of ten Native American inventions that have had a lasting influence on modern life. Narrated with vivid visuals, it frames Indigenous innovation...more
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This video offers a captivating exploration of ten Native American inventions that have had a lasting influence on modern life. Narrated with vivid visuals, it frames Indigenous innovation as far-reaching and profound, starting with how early Europeans reacted to these contributions in the 1500s. Viewers learn how traditional inventions, from medicinal remedies and simple mechanical tools to communal sports and practical everyday items, trace their origins to Native American ingenuity, challenging outdated myths about where creativity and technology come from. Please note: If your district blocks access to YouTube, the video will not be viewable. You may need to find an alternative platform or secure administrative permission for students to view it.
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tag(s): inventors and inventions (88), native americans (169)
In the Classroom
Have students create a visual timeline using Sutori, reviewed here showcasing each of the ten inventions featured in the video, including the Indigenous group it originated from and its modern counterpart. In small groups, have students select one invention (e.g., syringes, lacrosse, hammocks) and create posters comparing its original form to how it is used today, including function, materials, and impact. Inspired by Indigenous creativity, challenge students to invent a new tool or concept that solves a modern problem.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Contributions of Native Americans - Indigenous Achievements That Shaped Today - Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Center
Grades
4 to 12
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This lesson-ready video offers a compelling overview of Native American inventions and cultural contributions that continue to influence modern society. Through engaging visuals and...more
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This lesson-ready video offers a compelling overview of Native American inventions and cultural contributions that continue to influence modern society. Through engaging visuals and narration, students gain insight into how innovations, ranging from medicine to everyday technologies, shaped both Indigenous communities and later generations. Please note that if your district blocks access to YouTube, the video will not be viewable, and an alternative platform or workaround may be needed.
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tag(s): cultures (301), native americans (169)
In the Classroom
Create cards with Native American inventions on one set and their modern uses on another. Have students match them and explain how the original idea is still relevant today. Ask students to write a creative first-person journal from the perspective of a Native American who developed an innovation, describing the problem they solved and how others reacted. Have students compare Native American contributions to similar innovations from other cultures, discussing how different societies solve similar problems. Create a Venn diagram with Canva's Venn Diagram Creator, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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10 Revolutionary Native American Inventions That Changed Modern Life - Bryan University
Grades
4 to 12
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Ever wonder how everyday objects -- like kayaks, pain relievers, or snow goggles -- trace their roots back thousands of years to ingenuity developed long before modern science? The...more
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Ever wonder how everyday objects -- like kayaks, pain relievers, or snow goggles -- trace their roots back thousands of years to ingenuity developed long before modern science? The article from Bryan University highlights ten revolutionary Native American inventions that continue to impact modern life, offering an engaging way to explore Indigenous contributions during Native American Heritage Month or as part of a broader history or science unit. Featured innovations include natural pain relievers made from willow bark, early oral contraceptives using traditional plants, syringes crafted from bird bones and animal bladders, baby feeding tools made from natural materials, homemade sunscreens, snow goggles carved from bone or wood, the kayak, lacrosse (originating as stickball), hammocks developed by the Taino, and suspension bridges woven from grasses by the Inca. The article encourages educators to recognize the ingenuity and lasting influence of Native American cultures and can serve as a strong starting point for student research or classroom discussions on innovation and cultural legacy.
tag(s): inventors and inventions (88), native americans (169)
In the Classroom
Challenge students to design a modern tool inspired by an invention (such as a water-resistant pouch based on early feeding devices or a sun visor inspired by snow goggles). They can build prototypes using simple materials. Create a classroom timeline using Timeline Infographics, reviewed here showing when and where each invention originated. Include maps and note which Indigenous group developed each innovation. Have students compare each Native American invention with its modern equivalent. For example, compare early syringes with today's medical tools or traditional kayaks with modern sports models.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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10 Native American Inventions Commonly Used Today - History Education
Grades
4 to 12
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Innovations ranging from durable kayaks and snow goggles to natural medicines and staple crops demonstrate the advanced engineering, medical knowledge, and agricultural practices developed...more
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Innovations ranging from durable kayaks and snow goggles to natural medicines and staple crops demonstrate the advanced engineering, medical knowledge, and agricultural practices developed by diverse Native American tribal nations long before European contact. The article from History Education highlights how these inventions supported survival and daily life across varied environments from Arctic regions to South America and influenced broader global practices. Updated as recently as November 2025, the piece offers educators a rich resource to broaden students' understanding of Indigenous contributions to technology and society.
tag(s): inventors and inventions (88), native americans (169)
In the Classroom
Create cards with the name of an Indigenous invention on one set and its use or purpose on the other. Then, have students work in pairs or small groups to match the items, and then discuss how each invention addressed specific environmental or cultural needs. Have students create a visual timeline using Time Graphics Timeline Maker, reviewed here showing the development of Indigenous inventions, including their original purposes and any modern equivalents (e.g., kayaks, syringes, baby bottles, snow goggles). Challenge students to redesign a Native American invention using both traditional and modern materials. They can present their designs through drawings, models, or digital presentations using Delightex, reviewed here, explaining the science or engineering behind them.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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What's Behind Game - Genially
Grades
2 to 8
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The Genially Hidden Picture Game template is an engaging, interactive tool designed to captivate students' curiosity by challenging them to uncover a concealed image through a series...more
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The Genially Hidden Picture Game template is an engaging, interactive tool designed to captivate students' curiosity by challenging them to uncover a concealed image through a series of questions. A portion of the hidden picture reveals itself as students answer questions correctly, providing immediate feedback and motivation to continue. This gamified approach not only reinforces subject matter comprehension but also adds an element of fun to the learning process. Fully customizable, the content can be tailored by educators to align with various subjects and grade levels, making it a versatile addition to any classroom setting. The template supports the integration of multimedia elements such as audio, video, and animations, enhancing the overall interactive experience. Additionally, it offers flexible sharing options, including online presentation, embedding, and downloading in formats like PDF and MP4.
tag(s): game based learning (333), gamification (88), multimedia (70)
In the Classroom
After reading a story or article, have students answer comprehension questions using the game. Each correct response uncovers part of an image related to the text's theme or setting. Have students create their own versions of the game as a final project. They write questions based on their research or learning, choose an image to hide, and then share their games with classmates for peer learning. Create a game using unit questions (e.g., life cycles, weather, or historical events). As students answer correctly, the picture underneath reveals something connected to the topic (like a habitat, invention, or landmark).Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Mix & Move with AI - Code.org
Grades
2 to 9
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The "Mix & Move with AI" unit from Code.org is a free, hands-on curriculum that engages students in creating, coding, and choreographing digital media using artificial intelligence....more
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The "Mix & Move with AI" unit from Code.org is a free, hands-on curriculum that engages students in creating, coding, and choreographing digital media using artificial intelligence. Students experiment with remixing music, designing virtual dancers, and exploring how AI models generate creative outputs. The lessons are easy for educators to use, even without prior AI experience, and include teacher guides, student activities, and discussion prompts that encourage computational thinking, creativity, and responsible AI use. Some videos and tutorials are hosted on YouTube, so teachers should check school access settings before use.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (356), coding (112), dance (42)
In the Classroom
Have students use the interactive platform to design a virtual dancer that moves to a chosen beat. They adjust rhythm, tempo, and style to see how AI interprets movement and music together. Have students remix an existing dance by changing AI-generated moves or music selections. Discuss how machine learning can be creative but still depends on human choices and input. Encourage students to invent their own AI-powered creative project ideas, such as generating a story rhythm, creating a visual art piece with AI, or coding a short interactive show. Then, have them present their prototype or plan to the class.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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5 WOW Factor Ecological Relationships Activities - Bright in the Middle
Grades
6 to 8
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Looking to ignite curiosity in your middle school science classroom? Explore this resource, which offers creative, hands-on lessons that bring concepts like mutualism, parasitism, and...more
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Looking to ignite curiosity in your middle school science classroom? Explore this resource, which offers creative, hands-on lessons that bring concepts like mutualism, parasitism, and predation to life. Starting with an eye-catching example of Demodex mites -- tiny creatures that live on human skin -- students are drawn into the real-world concept of symbiosis. Activities include analyzing organism images, completing Venn diagrams and KWL charts, and creating ecosystem research projects. These standards-aligned activities are designed to deepen understanding and spark lasting interest in ecology. Be sure to view the free resources, as this site also has some for a fee.
tag(s): ecology (113), ecosystems (115)
In the Classroom
Start the unit with a hook by introducing Demodex mites--microscopic organisms that live on human skin. Show a short video or image, then ask students to hypothesize the type of relationship (mutualism, commensalism, or parasitism) that exists. Have students examine curated images of organisms in pairs or small groups and sort them into categories (mutualism, commensalism, parasitism, predation, competition). They should justify their choices with evidence. Have students invent an organism and design its ecological relationships. Then have them draw the creature, describe its niche, and explain at least two relationships (ex., its predator, its symbiotic partner). They can create a 3D model of their creature using Delightex reviewed here.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
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