Education & Policy/Scientific Method

Build an Earthquake Machine

Earthquakes are awe-inspiring. But the destruction, confusion, and injury associated with them often overshadow important classroom discussion about how these phenomena actually occur. By understanding what causes earthquakes, children can think critically about ways that scientists can work to prevent future damage from natural disasters. In this activity your class will build and explore a […]

Science Friday Discussion: Negotiating the Challenges of Teaching Evolution

Science Friday Live Panel Discussion: Negotiating the Challenges of Teaching Evolution

A 20-Year Dive Into Climate Change History

How Can We Build Homes That Are Resistant to Mold?

#ObserveEverything: Staff Picks, Week #2

We're halfway through our #ObserveEverything project, and your discoveries continue to impress us. Wednesday morning's total lunar eclipse made for some excellent observation opportunities around the country, as have the changing seasons and spread of fall colors. Your observations haven't been limited to the trees and skies, though—in the past week, we've seen microscopy of a […]

#ObserveEverything: Staff Picks, Week #1

We observe: you're amazing!     Last Friday we invited you to join in our latest Science Club project, #ObserveEverything, and your response has been outstanding. In the past week, you've sent us dozens of observations, from family spider tracking around the home to some laser-based photosynthesis research at a major lab. Below are some […]

Classroom Strategy: Image of the Day

Introduction An image is a powerful tool for earth and space science instruction. By providing a visual representation of the physical world, a photograph can set the stage for a conversation about science and how it can be used to understand phenomena on earth—and beyond. Although images may be used throughout a class period, using an […]

Create a Disease Map

Target Grades: 7-12 Time Required: 30-60 minutes Subject Areas: Mathematics, Engineering and Technology Activity Type: Data Analysis and Visualization Standards: NGSS HS-LS2-2, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RST.9-10.7, CCSS.ELA-Literacy.9-10.3 Mapping is a powerful tool for understanding the spread of diseases that are transmitted by invertebrates such as mosquitoes and ticks, called vectors. Epidemiologists, the scientists who study disease transmission and distribution, will often […]

Chocolate Crystal Concoctions

Target Grades: 5-8 Content Areas: Physical Science, Chemistry Activity Type: Food experiment Time Required: About 1 hour NGSS: MS-PS1-4: CCSS. ELA-Literacy.RST.6-8.3, ELA-Literacy.RST.6-8.9  What do you think of when you think of crystals? Do emeralds, quartz, snowflakes, or maybe rock candy come to mind? You may be surprised to learn that chocolate, that delightful confection, is a crystal, too. […]