This is a simple activity I have my third graders do at the beginning of the year to show me how well they know their science tools. I place random numbers of various science tools on the counters and tables. Students get a recording sheet that only has numbers on it; they must count the number of a particular tool, identify the tool by memory, and write the tool's name on the line on their recording sheet. For kiddos who can't remember the name of the tool, I have a modification: I place QR codes with the tool's name embedded inside right next to the tool itself. Struggling students can use a mobile device to scan the code and gain access to the name and its spelling. Advanced students can challenge themselves to see if they can get all the tools correct without scanning any codes.

Included in this lesson are several documents:
1) A 2-page, complete lesson plan with a warm-up suggestion, modification idea, evaluation suggestion, and step-by-step instructions on how to set up this activity. I saved the lesson plan in both a .doc and a .docx format, so you should be able view it no matter which version of Word you own.
2) A warm-up activity, which consists of 7 slides (in a PDF format, to abide by the artists' Terms of Use) designed to get your students thinking about tools.
3) Editable and non-editable recording sheets and answer keys in a PowerPoint format
4) QR codes for every tool listed on the non-editable recording sheet and lesson plan in a PowerPoint document
5) A "Read First" document that explains how to use all the documents together in one lesson

*All of these items are compressed or "zipped" together. This means you'll need a program to unzip it for you before you are able to access it on your computer. There are unzipping programs for free on the web.

Suggested {but not mandatory} materials for this activity:
-mobile devices that can scan QR codes
-eye wash station
-fire blanket
-fire extinguisher
-phone
-first aid kit
-stopwatches
-goggles
-microscopes
-beakers
-triple beam balances
-pan balances
-spring balances
-magnifying glasses/hand lenses
-burners
-compasses
-graduated cylinders
-measuring cups
-thermometers
-droppers/pipettes
-pairs of gloves
-magnets
-tongs
-rulers

*These materials are optional, since this unit is editable. You could also print pictures of the items if you don't want to edit but don't have access to the items.