4279 science results | sort by:
return to subject listing
10 Fun Alternatives to Think-Pair-Share - We Are Teachers
Grades
3 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This article from We Are Teachers offers a collection of creative alternatives to the traditional think-pair-share strategy, providing teachers with engaging ways to increase student...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This article from We Are Teachers offers a collection of creative alternatives to the traditional think-pair-share strategy, providing teachers with engaging ways to increase student participation and deepen classroom discussions. It explains that while think-pair-share is effective, structured variations such as movement-based activities, collaborative brainstorming, and role-based discussions can help keep students focused, energized, and actively involved in learning. The site emphasizes that these strategies promote stronger communication skills, encourage all students to contribute, and support deeper understanding by exposing learners to multiple perspectives and repeated opportunities to refine their thinking.
tag(s): collaboration (131), perspective (33), thinking routines (50)
In the Classroom
Have groups create a final answer or slide show using Aha Slides, reviewed here that combines everyone's ideas. They must justify their thinking using evidence, pushing students toward deeper reasoning and synthesis. Assign roles such as explainer and questioner. Have one student explain their thinking while the other asks probing questions to deepen understanding, then they switch roles. After pairing, the two pairs join together to form a group of four and compare ideas. This collaborative discussion helps students refine their thinking by hearing multiple perspectives.You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
50 Activities For Developing Critical Thinking Skills - Kapable
Grades
4 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This article from Kapable provides a comprehensive collection of 50 practical activities designed to help develop and strengthen critical thinking skills through hands-on practice and...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This article from Kapable provides a comprehensive collection of 50 practical activities designed to help develop and strengthen critical thinking skills through hands-on practice and collaboration. It explains that critical thinking involves analyzing information, questioning assumptions, and considering multiple perspectives to make well-reasoned decisions. It emphasizes that activities such as debates, role-playing, puzzles, and problem-solving scenarios help learners build these skills in meaningful ways. The site highlights how these activities promote creativity, improve decision-making, and encourage adaptability by exposing learners to real-world challenges and diverse viewpoints, making it a useful resource for teachers looking to incorporate structured, interactive strategies to build students' analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
tag(s): collaboration (131), critical thinking (187), thinking routines (50)
In the Classroom
Set up stations with different types of challenges (logic puzzles, real-world scenarios, ethical dilemmas). Have students rotate through stations, collaborate, and explain their thinking process at each station. Have students identify a real-world problem (at the school, community, or global level) and create a solution plan. They must research, evaluate options, and present their reasoning using CER (claim, evidence, reasoning). Give students a topic connected to your ELA or social studies unit. In small groups, students can take different perspectives and support their claims with evidence.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Thinking Interdependently - VHS Resource Toolkit
Grades
6 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This page from the Vista High School Resource Toolkit explains the Habit of Mind: Thinking Interdependently, which focuses on helping students learn to work effectively with others...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This page from the Vista High School Resource Toolkit explains the Habit of Mind: Thinking Interdependently, which focuses on helping students learn to work effectively with others to solve problems and make decisions. The site describes thinking interdependently as the ability to communicate ideas, accept feedback, test solutions with others, and build understanding through collaboration. It also includes strategies and activities teachers can use to help students recognize when teamwork is needed and how sharing perspectives leads to stronger learning. Suggested classroom ideas include analyzing examples of collaboration, defining the characteristics of good teamwork, and using cooperative structures, such as jigsaw activities, to help students practice working together. This resource is useful for teachers looking to build social-emotional skills, collaboration, and Habits of Mind through group learning experiences.
tag(s): collaboration (131), perspective (33), social and emotional learning (202), thinking routines (50)
In the Classroom
Divide a lesson into sections and assign each student in a group a different part to become an expert on. Have students teach their section to their group members. Provide complex tasks (STEM challenges, reading discussions, or real-world problems) that require multiple perspectives. Assign roles (facilitator, recorder, reporter) so each student contributes and the group relies on everyone's input. Have students share writing, projects, or ideas with peers for feedback. Teach them how to offer constructive suggestions and ask clarifying questions, reinforcing that improvement often happens through collaboration.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Thinking Interdependently as a Mental Health Skill for Grades 4-6 - Habits of Minds Kids
Grades
4 to 6
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This page from the Habits of Mind Kids website explains how educators can teach the habit of Thinking Interdependently as a mental health skill for elementary students. The article...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This page from the Habits of Mind Kids website explains how educators can teach the habit of Thinking Interdependently as a mental health skill for elementary students. The article describes how learning to work cooperatively with others helps children develop empathy, communication skills, emotional regulation, and a sense of belonging within a group. It connects teamwork, perspective-taking, and collaborative problem-solving to overall well-being, showing that students who learn to value others' ideas and work together are better able to handle challenges, build relationships, and feel supported in social situations. The site is designed for upper-elementary students and provides background information that teachers can use when teaching social-emotional learning, Habits of Mind, or classroom community skills.
tag(s): collaboration (131), communication (126), emotions (73), empathy (69), problem solving (279), social and emotional learning (202), thinking routines (50)
In the Classroom
Give small groups a challenge that requires more than one person to complete, such as building the tallest structure with limited materials, solving a logic puzzle, or completing a scavenger hunt. Afterward, students can discuss how they relied on one another, how they shared ideas, and what made the group successful. Present a social or academic problem (for example, a conflict between friends or a difficult math task). Have students work in pairs or small groups to develop solutions together. Each group should explain how listening, cooperation, and respecting ideas helped them reach an answer.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Habits of Mind Animations: Thinking Interdependently - ASCD
Grades
2 to 8
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This short animated YouTube video, "Habits of Mind Animations: Thinking Interdependently," uses a simple and engaging story to show how working together can lead to better ideas and...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This short animated YouTube video, "Habits of Mind Animations: Thinking Interdependently," uses a simple and engaging story to show how working together can lead to better ideas and stronger problem-solving. The animation explains that thinking interdependently means listening to others, sharing ideas, and cooperating to reach solutions that would be harder to achieve alone. This video is useful for introducing collaboration skills, setting expectations for group work, and reinforcing social-emotional learning as students practice respectful discussion, teamwork, and helping one another succeed. If your district blocks YouTube, the video may not be viewable.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): collaboration (131), listening (119), problem solving (279), social and emotional learning (202), teaching strategies (77), thinking routines (50), thinking skills (130)
In the Classroom
Give students brief situations that require teamwork (for example, building something together, solving a problem, or working on a group project). Have students discuss with a partner how thinking interdependently would help in that situation. Have students sit in a circle and give a compliment to the person next to them about something they do well when working with others. Students can create a poster that shows what interdependent thinking looks, sounds, and feels like in the classroom. Posters can include examples such as listening, taking turns, helping others, and sharing ideas.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Peer-to-Peer Education: What It Is, Benefits & How It Works - 21K School
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This article from 21K School, "Peer-to-Peer Education: A Collaborative Learning Approach," explains how students can learn more effectively by teaching and collaborating rather than...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This article from 21K School, "Peer-to-Peer Education: A Collaborative Learning Approach," explains how students can learn more effectively by teaching and collaborating rather than relying solely on teacher-led instruction. The post describes peer-to-peer education as a collaborative learning method where students share ideas, discuss topics, and help one another understand concepts through activities such as debates, group discussions, feedback, and teamwork. The article highlights benefits such as improved confidence, stronger communication skills, better social interaction, and a deeper understanding, and offers suggestions on how teachers can create a positive classroom environment that encourages cooperation and shared learning.
tag(s): classroom management (143), collaboration (131), communication (126), feedback (16), listening (119), teaching strategies (77), thinking routines (50)
In the Classroom
After a mini-lesson, have students turn to a partner and explain the concept in their own words. Each partner listens and adds anything their partner missed. Set up stations where students work in pairs or small groups to practice skills such as reading, math problems, vocabulary, or science concepts. Have students take turns being the teacher and the learner. Give each group a task that requires teamwork, such as solving a complex question, completing a research activity, or creating a project. Students should discuss ideas and agree on a solution together, strengthening collaboration and critical thinking.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
16 Variations on Think-Pair-Share to Keep Students Engaged - Edutopia
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This Edutopia article, "16 Variations on Think-Pair-Share to Keep Students Engaged," shares creative ways to update the classic Think-Pair-Share strategy to keep students engaged and...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This Edutopia article, "16 Variations on Think-Pair-Share to Keep Students Engaged," shares creative ways to update the classic Think-Pair-Share strategy to keep students engaged and actively involved in learning. The article explains how educators can expand the simple routine of thinking individually, discussing with a partner, and sharing with the class by incorporating variations such as drawing, rotating partners, collaborative writing, and small-group sharing. These strategies help increase participation, strengthen communication skills, deepen understanding, and give all students a chance to express their ideas across subject areas and grade levels.
tag(s): collaboration (131), communication (126), teaching strategies (77), thinking routines (50)
In the Classroom
Ask students a question about the lesson and have them first draw their idea rather than write it. Students can then explain their drawing to a partner before sharing with the class. Have students stand up, find a partner, and discuss a question or problem. After sharing, they find a new partner for the next question. Have students first talk with a partner, then join another pair to form a group of four, and finally share with the whole class.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Big and Small Strategies to Harness the Power of Peer-to-Peer Teaching - Edutopia
Grades
3 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This Edutopia article, "Big and Small Strategies to Harness the Power of Peer-to-Peer Teaching," explains how students can improve their understanding and retention by teaching one...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This Edutopia article, "Big and Small Strategies to Harness the Power of Peer-to-Peer Teaching," explains how students can improve their understanding and retention by teaching one another. The article describes simple and structured strategies such as Think-Pair-Share, jigsaw groups, and peer tutoring, all based on the idea that students learn more deeply when they explain ideas to classmates. It offers practical classroom ideas for use in any subject and grade level to increase participation, collaboration, and confidence while building a supportive learning community.
tag(s): collaboration (131), professional development (322), teaching strategies (77), thinking routines (50)
In the Classroom
Ask a question about the current lesson, have students think quietly, discuss with a partner, and finally share with the class. After a short mini-lesson, have students turn to a partner and explain the concept in their own words. The partner listens and then adds anything missed. Divide a topic into sections and assign each group one part to learn. Students become experts on their section and then teach it to a new group.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Choice Board Templates - Canva
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This large assortment of choice board templates includes many free and customizable options within Canva for Education, reviewed here Choose from...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This large assortment of choice board templates includes many free and customizable options within Canva for Education, reviewed here Choose from a variety of styles and content options. After selecting a template, use Canva's editing tools to personalize colors, text, images, and more. Share templates digitally with your personalized link, or download as an image or PDF.
tag(s): differentiation (102), multimedia (63), presentations (41), student-centered (10)
In the Classroom
Make sure to create a free teacher's account in Canva; this gives you access to many of the paid PRO account features. Use choice boards during independent work rotations or end-of-unit projects. Create multiple versions of choice boards using the templates to accommodate diverse learners and learning styles in your classroom while still providing instruction that meets learning objectives for all students. Include a variety of activities in choice boards that engage students in learning, such as games, simulations, videos, and opportunities to share their learning by creating multimedia presentations.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Top 5 Ice Breaker Games For The Start Of School - Teaching Firsties
Grades
K to 3
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Read about five simple, low-prep icebreaker games designed to help students feel comfortable, build friendships, and create a positive classroom community during the first days of school....more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
Read about five simple, low-prep icebreaker games designed to help students feel comfortable, build friendships, and create a positive classroom community during the first days of school. The activities focus on learning classmates' names, discovering shared interests, encouraging teamwork, and easing first-day jitters through fun, interactive experiences. The article also suggests using engaging back-to-school read-alouds as an alternative for students who may be hesitant to participate in traditional icebreakers, helping every child feel welcomed and included from the very beginning of the school year.
tag(s): blogs (82), classroom management (143), firstday (27), preK (322)
In the Classroom
Give each student a bingo-style sheet with prompts such as "has a pet," "likes to read," or "has traveled to another state." Have students circulate the room to find classmates who match each description, encouraging conversations and helping everyone learn about one another. Ask fun, school-friendly choices (for example, "Would you rather explore space or the ocean?"). Have students move to different sides of the room to show their choice, then explain their reasoning to a partner or small group to practice speaking and listening skills. After participating in the icebreaker games, have students design a poster, one-pager, or digital slide using Google Slides, reviewed here highlighting their interests, favorite books, hobbies, and goals. Display the projects around the room to celebrate each student's unique personality.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Back to School Icebreakers Activities - Nearpod
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This Nearpod blog post provides a collection of ready-to-use, interactive activities designed to help teachers build a positive classroom community during the first week of school....more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This Nearpod blog post provides a collection of ready-to-use, interactive activities designed to help teachers build a positive classroom community during the first week of school. The article features icebreakers, getting-to-know-you lessons, collaborative discussions, reflection prompts, and engaging digital activities that introduce students to classroom routines while encouraging participation and relationship-building. It also highlights Nearpod's interactive tools, such as Collaborate Board, Draw It, Time to Climb, polls, and ready-made lessons, making it easy for teachers to create an engaging and welcoming learning environment from day one. Many of the featured resources are available as editable or ready-to-launch lessons for use in live or student-paced instruction.
tag(s): classroom management (143), collaboration (131), firstday (27)
In the Classroom
Use Nearpod's Collaborate Board for students to post fun facts, summer memories, reading interests, or personal goals. Encourage classmates to respond to one another to help build connections from the first day of school. Launch a collaborative Nearpod lesson where students brainstorm classroom norms using polls, open-ended questions, and Draw It activities. Turn the class's ideas into a shared digital classroom agreement. Reinforce routines such as technology expectations, transitions, or classroom rules by creating a Time to Climb quiz. Find more ideas for classroom learning activities at Nearpod, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Using Humor in the Art Room - The Art of Education University
Grades
4 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This podcast episode from The Art of Education University discusses how teachers can use humor in the classroom to build relationships, increase engagement, and create a safe learning...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This podcast episode from The Art of Education University discusses how teachers can use humor in the classroom to build relationships, increase engagement, and create a safe learning environment, especially in the art room. The speaker explains that humor can help students feel comfortable and more willing to take risks. Still, teachers should be thoughtful about how they use jokes, sarcasm, and playful comments, as students may interpret them differently. The episode shares examples such as intentionally making mistakes during demonstrations, using lighthearted comments to keep students engaged, and choosing humor that supports learning rather than embarrassing students. Overall, the message encourages teachers to use humor intentionally to make class enjoyable while maintaining a respectful, supportive atmosphere.
tag(s): classroom management (143), humor (20), podcasts (169), teaching strategies (77)
In the Classroom
Start a lesson by intentionally making a funny mistake during a demonstration, such as using the wrong color, holding a tool incorrectly, or pretending to forget a step. Ask students to catch the mistake and explain how to do it correctly. Use lighthearted class discussions about appropriate humor, asking students when jokes are helpful and when they might hurt someone's feelings. Try a teacher-student improv activity where students quickly add a funny detail to a drawing, story, or idea the teacher starts.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Why Can't Teachers Be Funny in School? - Trainers Warehouse
Grades
3 to 8
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This blog post from Trainers Warehouse explains how using classroom humor can make learning more engaging, memorable, and enjoyable for students. The article encourages teachers to...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This blog post from Trainers Warehouse explains how using classroom humor can make learning more engaging, memorable, and enjoyable for students. The article encourages teachers to include funny activities, jokes, games, and playful routines to help students relax, participate more, and feel comfortable taking risks while learning. Suggestions include using silly introductions, humorous writing activities, improv games, movement breaks, funny prompts, and lighthearted classroom challenges to keep energy high and attention focused. The post also notes that laughter can reduce stress, improve mood, strengthen relationships, and help students remember what they learn, making humor a powerful tool for building a positive classroom environment.
tag(s): blogs (82), classroom management (143), humor (20), teaching strategies (77)
In the Classroom
Use content-based humor activities like Mad Libs, limericks, or funny captions related to the topic you are teaching. For example, students can fill in missing words in a paragraph about the lesson or write a humorous rhyme using vocabulary terms. Begin a lesson with a funny introduction activity, such as having students introduce themselves using emojis, memes, or silly voices. Incorporate movement-based humor activities like funny walks, freeze poses, or short dance breaks.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
How to Easily Infuse More Humor into Your Classroom - Beginning Teacher Talk with Dr. Lori Friesen
Grades
K to 8
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This video explains how teachers can use humor to create a positive, engaging classroom environment and build stronger relationships with students. The speaker shares practical ideas,...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This video explains how teachers can use humor to create a positive, engaging classroom environment and build stronger relationships with students. The speaker shares practical ideas, such as telling jokes, using funny voices, adding silly props, creating playful routines, taking brain breaks, and leaving surprise notes, to help students feel relaxed and connected. The video emphasizes that humor helps students feel safe, increases engagement, and improves classroom management by making them more willing to participate in a fun, supportive atmosphere. Teachers are encouraged to try small strategies that match their personality and gradually add more lighthearted moments to make learning enjoyable. This video is hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, the video may not be viewable at school.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): classroom management (143), humor (20), teaching strategies (77)
In the Classroom
Start the day with a joke or a funny daily announcement to create a positive classroom mood. Use silly writing prompts or creative challenges connected to your lesson. For example, ask students to write a story funnily using vocabulary words, such as "What would happen if a dinosaur became the principal?" Create a class mascot, puppet, or character that gives directions, asks questions, or leaves notes for students. The mascot can review content, introduce lessons, or offer hints, making learning more memorable and increasing student engagement.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
5 Science Experiments Inspired by Harry Potter - Edutopia
Grades
3 to 8
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This Edutopia article describes how teachers can make science lessons more engaging by using imaginative, fantasy-style themes inspired by popular stories such as Harry Potter. The...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This Edutopia article describes how teachers can make science lessons more engaging by using imaginative, fantasy-style themes inspired by popular stories such as Harry Potter. The article explains that connecting scientific concepts to familiar magical objects and situations can help students better understand abstract ideas and become more curious about how science works in the real world. Examples include using fictional devices to introduce topics like energy, chemistry, and physics, turning lessons into creative, story-based investigations that increase motivation and participation. The approach encourages hands-on learning, questioning, and problem-solving while keeping the focus on real scientific principles. If your district blocks YouTube, then the videos may not be viewable.
tag(s): experiments (68), light (61), magnetism (40), matter (52)
In the Classroom
Introduce a fictional object, such as an invisibility cloak, a flying broom, or a magic potion. Ask students to brainstorm how the object might work, using real scientific concepts such as force, energy, light, or chemical reactions. Choose a "magic" effect such as color-changing liquids, floating objects, or disappearing ink. Have students perform a simple experiment, then explain the underlying science behind the effect. Give students a brief fantasy scenario in which a character must solve a problem using science. Have students work in groups to decide which scientific knowledge would be most helpful and present their solution to the class.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Magic Science Experiments - Science Fun
Grades
3 to 8
0 Favorites
0 Comments
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
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
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 (28), chemicals (37), experiments (68), 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
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Explore Live Nature Cams - EXPLORE.org
Grades
K to 8
0 Favorites
0 Comments
The Explore Live Nature Cams YouTube channel features live animal cameras, nature streams, and wildlife videos from locations around the world. The channel is part of EXPLORE.org, which...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
The Explore Live Nature Cams YouTube channel features live animal cameras, nature streams, and wildlife videos from locations around the world. The channel is part of EXPLORE.org, which operates one of the largest live nature camera networks, sharing real-time footage of animals and natural environments, including bears in Alaska, ocean life, bird nests, and wildlife reserves. Videos are unscripted and educational, allowing students to observe animal behavior, habitats, and ecosystems as they happen. The channel can be a useful classroom resource for science, geography, and observation activities, and the calm, real-time footage also works well for background viewing during quiet work time or discussions about nature and conservation. If your district blocks YouTube, then the videos may not be viewable.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): animals (278), ecosystems (108), habitats (105), webcams (20)
In the Classroom
Play a live cam feed for a few minutes and have students record what they see in their science journals. Students can write or draw the animals, describe their behavior, and note the habitat. Pause the video and ask students to predict what the animal might do next based on what they know about the species. Have students pretend they are one of the animals on the live cam and write a journal entry using Book Creator, reviewed here about their day. Students should include details about the animal's habitat, diet, and the challenges it might face.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Fractivities - Fractal Foundations
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
The Fractivities page from the Fractal Foundation offers a collection of free, hands-on classroom activities that help students explore fractals through math, science, and art. Each...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
The Fractivities page from the Fractal Foundation offers a collection of free, hands-on classroom activities that help students explore fractals through math, science, and art. Each activity includes step-by-step instructions, worksheets, and teacher guides that demonstrate how repeating patterns appear in nature, geometry, and real-world systems. The lessons align with the Common Core State Standards in math and English language arts. The activities encourage teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving while building large-scale designs, exploring nature, or creating models. The activities range from simple paper projects to outdoor investigations, making the site useful for a wide range of grade levels and classroom settings.
tag(s): collaboration (131), commoncore (62), patterns (79), problem solving (279)
In the Classroom
Have students work in groups to create a large fractal design, such as the Sierpinski Triangle, using paper shapes or index cards. Each group can build a small part, then the class combines the pieces into one large pattern. Have students design their own fractal artwork using drawing, coloring, or digital tools such as Google Drawings, reviewed here. They can repeat shapes, zoom in on patterns, or create symmetrical designs inspired by the examples on the site. Use one of the Fractivities worksheets to explore how fractals relate to fractions, multiplication, or geometry. Students can calculate how many shapes are added at each step and predict what will happen next.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Evaluating Sources - The Lawerence Hall of Science
Grades
5 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Evaluating Sources is a student activity guide and lesson that helps students brainstorm sources of information, sort scientific sources by reliability, and discuss what makes a source...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
Evaluating Sources is a student activity guide and lesson that helps students brainstorm sources of information, sort scientific sources by reliability, and discuss what makes a source reliable. This NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) lesson is for students in grades 5 through 12 and lasts about one hour. The lesson plan includes: Introducing the Activity and Brainstorming, Sorting Cards, Discussing the Reliability of Sources, an Optional Activity, and Reflecting and Wrapping Up. There is also a section for Instructor Support and a rubric for evaluating student work.
tag(s): evaluating sources (52), media literacy (130)
In the Classroom
Students can create their own sorting cards using Canva for Education, reviewed here. Students can use Baamboozle, reviewed here to create a game having students show their understanding of reliable sources. When finished with the activity, ask students to use Story Map, reviewed here to create an infographic sharing how to evaluate reliable sources.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Evaluating Sources - Cathy Costello
Grades
6 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
The Virtual Library's Evaluating Sources page helps students become critical consumers of information by introducing the CRAAP Test -- Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
The Virtual Library's Evaluating Sources page helps students become critical consumers of information by introducing the CRAAP Test -- Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose. The resource includes an informative slideshow, an infographic, an instructional video, and a self-check quiz that guide students through analyzing sources for credibility and reliability. Students can also explore tips for evaluating websites, making this a valuable resource for teaching research skills, media literacy, and digital citizenship. The materials are presented in a student-friendly format and can be used for independent learning, classroom instruction, or review.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): digital citizenship (108), evaluating sources (52), media literacy (130)
In the Classroom
Students can create a game using Blooket, reviewed here teaching others how to evaluate sources. Students can create an infographic with information on identifying credible sources using MindMeister, reviewed here. Students can create a podcast teaching about reliable sources using Adobe Podcast, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Close comment form