Idea Sheets
Idea Sheets are hands-on experience guides linked to core curriculum topics.
Every Idea Sheet is cross-referenced to one or more of the curriculum subjects listed in the Content Standards. Use this Idea Sheets Search Tool to rapidly pinpoint activities that are perfectly suited to the grade level, subject area, and content standard you want to cover.
Idea Sheets are based on readily-available, low-cost materials such as cardboard tubes, bottle caps, old CD's, etc.
You can also Search Idea Sheets by Standards or Keywords.
Ballooning Universe
The idea of an expanding universe can be seen with dots on an expanding balloon.
Subjects: Earth/Space Science
Be Prepared
Evaluate potential natural hazards and develop plans to address the dangers.
Subjects: Earth/Space Science, Social Studies
Bead Weaving
Traditional bead weaving is a bit easier with this larger-sized version of a bead loom.
Subjects: Math, Social Studies
Beads of Knowledge
Students gather a bead at each station in this activity that works particularly well with a field trip or special event where you want students to participate in a variety of learning activities.
Subjects: Physical Science, Life Science, Earth/Space Science, Math, Social Studies, Language Arts, Art
Bed of Nails
The old "Bed-of-Nails" trick is a great attention-getter, but it is really not a trick at all. Rather, it is a demonstration of force distribution and pressure. In this miniature, "safety" version, students can investigate the decrease in pressure on their skin with the increase of contact points.
Subjects: Physical Science
Bernoulli or Not?
A blown column of air will suspend the ball in mid-air... but for how long?
Subjects: Physical Science
Better Wind Vane
This easily make wind vane will point to the source of a real or a student generated wind!
Subjects: Physical Science, Earth/Space Science
Binary Birthday Bracelets
Learning about binary numbers (Base 2) incorporates number sense, exponents, and the conversion of numbers between different bases. Binary numbers are essential to the functioning of common digital electronic devices but are usually well hidden!
Subjects: Math
Binary Bracelets for the 4th of July
Learning about binary numbers (Base 2) builds an understanding of number sense, exponents, and different base number systems. In making a Binary Bracelet for the 4th of July, students will encode our nation's birthday into a wearable bracelet.
Subjects: Math
Binary Dots
Counting in binary is quite straightforward and makes for an interesting and compelling activity for any student who can do simple addition. This uncomplicated game creates an opportunity to practice counting in binary. It reinforces understanding of place value and can be extended into a discussion of other bases and number systems.
Subjects: Math