A solid understanding of the structure and function of cells can help establish the foundation for learning advanced concepts in the biological sciences. The concept of the cell is introduced in middle school life science courses and is continued at the undergraduate level in college (NRC 2012; Reece et al. 2014). Cells are introduced to students…

This article examines the bicycle as not simply a means of transportation or as an exercise device, but rather as a vehicle for teambuilding and problem solving activities within a physical education curriculum. The activities described in this article focus on bike-centered initiatives that foster creative problem solving. They have universal…

One of the key features that draws many people to play video games is the fact that they are interactive. Video games allow the user to be actively engaged and in control of the action (Prensky, 2006). Seventh grade students at Canonsburg Middle School are actively engaging in the creation of video games. The students are engaged at a much deeper…

Presents a drama-in-education project for middle school students to experience the dilemmas and choices of immigration to America. Offers four lesson plans and prelesson work which include dramatic techniques, culminate in projects, and promote problem solving, accountability, creative thinking, and group cooperation. (SR)

This learning packet on American business allows the student to make decisions about what he wants to learn about American business. Upon completion of the unit of instruction these objectives should have been met: (1) to identify what American business is and why it is important; (2) to characterize the importance of the production function of…

In this unit of the Seeing and Thinking Mathematically series, students use geometry to analyze buildings from around the world, design and build their own house models, create plans for their designs, and build from each other's plans. Students start out the unit building with cubes and later move to other geometric shapes. As they learn to…

This publication presents the activities pertaining to the second goal of this activity guide series. The activities in this publication focus primarly on awareness, conservation, and planning. These materials are appropriate for middle school and junior high school students. These activities, organized by objective under the concepts listed, are…

A six-week multidisciplinary energy unit for an inner city middle school in Kentucky is described. This unit is designed to accommodate students with a wide range of reading and math skills. (MDR)

This publication presents the activities pertaining to the first goal of this activity guide series. The activities in this publication focus primarily on the availability of resources, forms of energy, natural laws, and socioeconomic considerations. These materials are appropriate for middle school and junior high school students. These…

This publication presents the activities pertaining to the third goal of this activity guide series. The activities in this publication focus on understanding conservation processes, efficiencies, socioeconomic costs, and personal decision-making. These materials are appropriate for middle school and junior high school students. These activities,…

The New Opportunities in Animal Health Sciences (NOAHS) Center at the National Zoological Park in Washington, DC. is dedicated to expanding understanding of the biological factors, including the critical role of biodiversity, that influence animal survival. This set of activities includes a description of NOAHS and the NOAHS mission, and letters…

Describes two activities (domain projects and process portfolios), used in a middle school setting, exemplifying a multiple intelligence (MI) approach to art. Proposes a format for infusing MI into art instruction at all grade levels. (DAJ)

Discusses the rationale for Academy of Inquiry and Talent Development enrichment projects in middle schools and provides examples of the activities pursued in these projects. Considers the authentic-learning and real-life problem-solving objectives of the projects, their organization, and the three types of enrichment: general exploratory, group…

Presents a color poster, information, and activities for introducing students to biodiversity. (PR)

Details the middle school implementation of an Academies of Inquiry and Talent Development enrichment program involving authentic-learning and real-life problem solving objectives. Considers start-up issues of orientation for students and parents, as well as teacher planning. Also considers issues of maintaining high standards, finding time for…