Sunshine STEM

Students have a blast designing and building a bridge model in the classroom out of materials they choose. This project is a multi step, multi-day mini unit that concentrates on two aspects of science; the process and principles of engineering as well as supporting core scientific content of forces, weight and gravity! The project is designed for students to research, design, build and modify a bridge capable of holding 5 pounds of weight for at least thirty seconds.  This lesson is closely ti

⭐Witness history being made with brilliant images from NASA's James Webb Telescope! This growing resource will expand throughout the year as NASA releases new images of space. ⭐First, students read a text with background information about the telescope, launch details, and the four goals of the mission before answering questions. ⭐Next - students begin their photo journal of NASA's released images using Google Slides. Each journal entry gives a brilliant color photo, an age-appropriate and e

Students discover the biological evolution between two species in this engaging resource that covers MS-LS4-2! Is Tyrannosaurus rex a distant relative of chickens? Students examine both T rex and chicken skeletons to find similarities and differences between the two in this engaging activity. After completing a graphic organizer, students write an explanation based on their findings. Next, students read an informational text citing evidence of Tyrannosuarus rex's stance and appearance befo

Students will gain an understanding of what fuels convection currents in the Earth’s system and how convection currents drive natural processes. Students will break into groups of three to research one of the following spheres using guided research questions. The geosphere – plate tectonics The atmosphere - wind The hydrosphere - ocean currents Next, students will create a new group of three with one group member from each sphere group. Students will teach the other members about their sphere.

Hands-on lab using easy to find, everyday materials! Students follow the directions to create a chemical reaction using water and an effervescence tablet. After the reaction is complete, students answer conclusion questions before creating a model of their own experiment to test the law. For higher level students - students identify the reactants and products before balancing the equation for the reaction. Answer key included! NGSS Connection - MS-PS1-2. Analyze and interpret data on the

Engaging activity that supports HS-PS4-4! First students warm up by observing the electromagnetic spectrum before answering questions. Next students electronically access three internet articles regarding cell phone usage and human health. After reading the articles, students evaluate the information contained in the articles and form an opinion based on evidence given. This product supports: HS-PS4-4. Evaluate the validity and reliability of claims in published materials of the effects tha

Have your students research the life and scientific accomplishments of Charles Darwin in a fun and creative way! This project is broken down into two parts. In the first part, students independently research the life of Charles Darwin and complete the organized annotated timeline included with this project. Timeline is broken down into three section; Darwin's early life, his scientific years and his later life. Bibliography template is also included for internet articles, students fill in the

Have fun this Valentine's day by using the engineering design process to help Cupid build an index card tower for his conversation hearts! Students will have a blast designing and building their towers before testing the durability of their structures and comparing to other designs in the class. Finally, students reflect on how to improve their designs. Use year after year for Valentine's day treat for your students! This resource is aligned to NGSS engineering and design!

⭐ Now in digital as well! This resource is perfect to use with NGSS MS-ESS1-2 ! Students watch a creative and fun 5 minute Ted Talk video the poses the question - how far would you have to go to escape Eath's gravity? Two activity worksheets accompany the video. Students will answer questions, label diagrams, and sketch pictures of ideas covered. Complete answer key included! This resource is perfect for one class period and can be completed with the teacher, a substitute, or independently at h