The Periodic Table of Elements is a valuable resource for chemists and all kinds of STEM professionals. However, it can be initially overwhelming and intimidating to some students. This hands-on lesson introduces abstract concepts in the periodic table through a tangible experience with simple toys and household objects. Students collaborate and…

Classroom implementation of the "Next Generation Science Standards" (NGSS Lead States 2013) does not necessarily require complete curricular overhaul. In many cases, teachers can review previously used lessons with respect to the "NGSS," evaluate alignment, and make subsequent modifications. One science activity the author has…

This article describes activities in which students sample, investigate, classify, and compare characteristics (i.e., texture, color, density, porosity) of local soils, evaluating whether the soils are healthy or at risk. Students investigate correlations between geology and geography, predict which soil types may go extinct in their state, and…

Presents an instructional approach that goes beyond memorization of new vocabulary in a unit on classification to engage students in cooperative learning activities. Students work in six teams differentiated by taxonomic level to create skits, models, a Mollusk Fashion Show, and pictures. In a final activity, students create their own…

Presents a rock classification scheme for use by beginning students. The scheme is based on rock textures (glassy, crystalline, clastic, and organic framework) and observable structures (vesicles and graded bedding). Discusses problems in other rock classification schemes which may produce confusion, misidentification, and anxiety. (10 references)…

This booklet, one of six in the Living Things Science series, presents activities about diversity and classification of living things which address basic "Benchmarks" suggested by the American Association for the Advancement of Science for the Living Environment for grades 3-5. Contents include background information, vocabulary (in…

Uses trenoids, which are toothpicks colored with ink markers to represent a single taxa of organisms to illustrate ecological concepts in a student-centered learning environment. (YDS)

To familiarize students with the design and use of classification keys, a simple key for the identification of anemonefishes was devised for use in field excursions for marine studies in the Solomon Islands. During field studies students benefited from a locally produced reference. In using this strategy, students were able to master the…

Presents activities that use marine organisms with plant-like appearances to help students build classification skills and illustrate some of the less obvious differences between plants and animals. Compares mechanisms by which sessile plants and animals deal with common problems such as obtaining energy, defending themselves, successfully…

The author presents a dichotomous key to 29 tree cones, fruits, and nuts of eastern United States. Students can use the key to identify at least 10 species in a 1-hour laboratory assignment. This key uses reproductive structures that are significantly different from others. These structures are durable enough to be used in the laboratory for many…

Argues that the Woesian three domain view of life should replace the five kingdom taxonomic scheme presented in most general biology texts and courses. Presents evidence for employing the three domain scheme and a related activity for classroom use. Contains 11 references. (WRM)

Collecting "bugs" is an authentic, engaging approach for students to learn about various arthropods and their habitat. Students are able to construct knowledge from field notes involving direct observation, drawing, and classification of these animals. This activity has continuously provided successful measurable content outcomes in which students…

Presents a lesson that uses the learning cycle to introduce the concept of classification and the use of dichotomous keys to identify plants and animals. Encourages students to become better observers and helps them gain confidence and experience in using simple classification keys. (JRH)

Argues for an original structure for field guides, a structure that encourages induction on the part of the student and allows the student to create flexible taxa based on ecologically and evolutionary relevant field marks. Students will become more familiar with the multiple bases of taxonomy. (PR)

This book is an extensive integrated unit of study focused on that common and familiar insect--the cricket. In this edition, teachers are given a complete guide and reproducible worksheets for elementary and middle school students. With over 30 different activities on crickets, students learn science content and skills including: (1) Taxonomy; (2)…