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The Lesson Pony

I have developed lessons designed primarily for middle and high school students in science. These labs have been classroom tested for many years. Awards 2007-2005 Professional Learning Grant from the Waltham Chamber of Commerce 2001, and my name is on Mars 2001 Mars Rover for my contributions to NASA educational system.

I have developed lessons designed primarily for middle and high school students in science. These labs have been classroom tested for many years. Awards 2007-2005 Professional Learning Grant from the Waltham Chamber of Commerce 2001, and my name is on Mars 2001 Mars Rover for my contributions to NASA educational system.
Back to school Fun Icebreaker for Middle & High School Science
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Back to school Fun Icebreaker for Middle & High School Science

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This is a fun way to get to know your students Each time I reference to Science Teachers on my Facebook page, it consistently prompts a teacher to express disbelief that it’s already time to prepare for the upcoming school year. While it may feel premature, the reality is that the start of the school year is swiftly approaching, necessitating the planning of initial classroom activities. This worksheet serves as a lighthearted and engaging tool to both understand your students better and informally assess their proficiency in the English language. Additionally, included are guidelines on effectively incorporating this enjoyable resource into your classroom activities.
Genetics Super Heros 8th Grade Science PowerPoint
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Genetics Super Heros 8th Grade Science PowerPoint

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This activity has been a class favorite for many years as students get an opportunity to create their own Superhero(or villain) with the use of genotypes, Punnett Squares, and probability. Students will determine the phenotypes and genotypes of their parent heroes, and create Punnett Squares, Once students determine the traits of their super baby, they can begin working on their baby announcement which consists of a labeled poster of their superchild with the inherited traits and an announcement to introduce the superchild and their traits to the world. Learning Standards: Performance Expectation: HS-LS3-2: Make and defend a claim based on evidence that inheritable genetic variations may result from (1) new genetic combinations through meiosis, (2) viable errors occurring during replication, and/or (3) mutations caused by environmental factors. Disciplinary Core Idea: LS3.B: Variations of Traits: In sexual reproduction, chromosomes can sometimes swap sections during the process of meiosis (cell division), thereby creating new genetic combinations and thus more genetic variation. Although DNS replication is tightly regulated and remarkably accurate, errors do occur and result in mutations, which are also a source of genetic variation. Environmental factors can also cause mutations in genes, and viable mutations are inherited.
Earth Science Geology TimeLine of Earth's history Middle School Science
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Earth Science Geology TimeLine of Earth's history Middle School Science

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This package contains 2 lessons for the price of one. https://youtube.com/shorts/eVPB20bXn6Q?si=CwnAoyz8_ZHnmvfK The first is the classic timeline which students will create their own timeline. This lesson has been classroom-tested for 40 years!! The second lesson is the Evolutionary Tree which when completed students will discover how each major step in evolution was based on the one before. The third is called Creating Life. This fun lab has students observe unicelled organisms in a water sample. 2 Graphic Organizers Use for early finishers, extra credit, or sub plans This lesson also contains a more challenging reading for your more advanced students 3 Low Prep Labs! MATERIALS Meterstick, Adding machine tape Plaster of Paris (ready to pour) Cardboard Stapler Beach or park Total Pages 18 pages Answer Key Included Teaching Duration 1 Week
Flower Dissection Lab Middle School Science Activity Botany
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Flower Dissection Lab Middle School Science Activity Botany

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This is a fun lab in which students will have a hands-on approach to learning the flower parts. Objectives describe that the flower produces pollen, nectar, and seeds, describe how the flower attracts insects and other pollinators for reproduction, All key terms have been listed with a definition In this lab activity, students will dissect the typical parts of a flower and identify male and female reproductive organs Low Prep This lab is a must before your unit on Genetics! Classroom-tested for many years Crossword Puzzle Graphic Organizer for Early finishers Readings Materials Magnifying Glass Tulips (Flower) Worksheets Forceps Dropper Pipette Coverslips Microscope Please see the preview and contact me if you have any questions.
Metric System (SI) Measuring Fun Activity Middle, High School Science
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Metric System (SI) Measuring Fun Activity Middle, High School Science

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https://youtu.be/kzKkk6Dcx0c This resource was created to help teachers review and teach the Metric system and density. It is a classic lab highly recommended for the start of the school year. Students will be engaged and learn how to use the Metric System This product contains Fun no prep lab 10 Metric problems Answer Key MATERIALS Ruler 10 index cards Balance Graduate cylinder Rubber stopper Water The metric system​ is a decimal system based on the meter, liter, and gram as units of length, capacity, and weight or mass. The system was first proposed by the French astronomer and mathematician Gabriel Mouton (1618–94) in 1670 and was standardized in France under the Republican government in the 1790s. Unlike the English system which has multiple units for length (inch, foot, yard, mile), the metric only has one – the meter (m). Similarly, there are four basic metric units: ● Length – meter (m) ● Mass – gram (g) ● Volume – liter (l or L) ● Time – second (s) Base unit values can be modified (made larger or smaller) through the use of prefixes (ex. kilo­, 1000; hecto­, 100; deka­, 10; deci­, 0.1; centi­, 0.01; milli­, 0.001).
Chemistry Fun labs to learn safety in the lab High School Science
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Chemistry Fun labs to learn safety in the lab High School Science

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Are you looking for a way to make science both fun and safe for your students? This is the most important lesson of the year for high school students. Your kids will love and remember this lesson because instead of just reading and answering questions they will be performing labs to learn the importance of safety in the classroom. Total Pages 15 Teaching Duration 2 days
Fall Lab Plants Gardening Activity How to plant tulips with your class
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Fall Lab Plants Gardening Activity How to plant tulips with your class

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All profits from this lab will be denoted to charities Materials Bulbs Daffodils, Tulips, Dutch Iris, etc. Gloves Shovel Colored Pencils Included is a short writing about how Tulps will help cheer you up I promise you it is the most beautiful reading on the internet. No lab will bring more joy to your students than planting spring bulbs. This has been a staple activity in my classroom for 20 years. Students will learn how to plant spring flowers. Included are many hints to ensure success in the spring There are suggestions for cross-curriculum in Math, English, and History lessons Key terms are listed in Spanish with translations Total Pages 11 pages Answer Key Included Teaching Duration 1 hour
Biology Final Exam High School Science
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Biology Final Exam High School Science

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Description A cumulative biology review offers students a swift, straightforward, and efficient method to prepare for their final examinations. Tailored to accommodate various textbooks and syllabi, this review serves as a holistic resource, encompassing the entirety of the subject matter. Full-length test If you are worried about it being a perfect match for your classroom and curriculum, know that everything is editable so you can make it exactly what you need! A comprehensive review of all essential content including genetics, cellular biology, and molecular biology This is a terrific resource to review the year This product includes Genetics A & P Plants & animals Cells Inheritance, Genetics, and Punnett Squares Human Body Systems Evolution and Natural Selection This is completely self-paced; all you have to do is print and go! Students work through this ON THEIR OWN and it is a great activity for homework, classwork, or a sub-plan! 18 Page Editable MS Word Version I use this in my classroom to prepare my students for SAT Biology Exams.
Biology DNA, RNA Standardized Test Prep Unit High School Biology
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Biology DNA, RNA Standardized Test Prep Unit High School Biology

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This product caters to both classroom teachers and substitute plans, offering versatility in teaching DNA replication and preparing for AP examinations. Tailored for high school and introductory college biology courses, it accommodates various levels typically found in high school biology classes, allowing for differentiation. Included are detailed lesson plans outlining how to effectively implement this resource, as well as two hands-on activities to reinforce comprehension. The product features key terms, a graphic organizer for chromosome comprehension, and an answer key designed for convenient reference during instruction, enabling seamless management of classroom activities.
Genetics Kentucky Derby Racehorse Real Life Applications Middle & High School
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Genetics Kentucky Derby Racehorse Real Life Applications Middle & High School

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ing the excitement of horse racing into your classroom. Students will learn why horse breeders today use pedigrees to determine who to purchase by using a website professional breeders keep in their stables! Why are some horses better than others? Can be a fun activity for a sub. They will gain a better understanding of the Kentucky Derby. Racehorse breeding is a genetic lottery. All the numbers are in the pool you just have to be lucky enough to match them correctly to have a winner. What methods are used by the breeder to increase their chances of producing a winner This read is a real-life study in the world of genetics. Horse breeders use this site to find the bloodlines of horses they plan to buy to train for the racetrack. Have your students see how genetics is important in the Sport of Kings. They can trace bloodlines to the mid-1600s. This website is used by racehorse breeders today in the real world.
DNA Pool Noodle Statue Middle & High School Science
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DNA Pool Noodle Statue Middle & High School Science

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In this activity, students explore the structure of the DNA molecule and begin to understand how the DNA molecule’s chromosomes, genes, base pairs, sugars, and phosphates are related. Middle and high school students will always recall the double helix of DNA after completing this lab. This is a great activity to introduce genetics with a hands-on approach. The materials can be obtained at the dollar store and a local hardware store. Great decoration for your classroom. Wow, parents and your principal! Materials Ruler Pool Noodles Wire #9 Wire cutters A long serrated knife, Long zip ties Base- Several Options Graphic Organizer for Early Finishers!
Environment   keep our waters clean  lab.
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Environment keep our waters clean lab.

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This product contains 2 lessons-one a lab and the second a Power Point activity which can also be utilized as a sub-plan. Teach them together or they can stand alone This is an easy lab to set up. Students often wonder how the lifeguard keeps the water in a pool so clean.You can use pond water or teach this one if you have leftover microorganisms from another lab. Chlorination is the most common and effective method of destroying harmful microorganisms in water. Chlorine disinfectant is usually used as sodium hypochlorite in low concentrations. This lesson is two parts. The first is to have students observe what happens to the microorganisms when bleach is added. The second is a research project to learn about diseases associated with poor-quality water. Materials Pond water or solution containing microorganisms Bleach Eye dropper Microscope
UV  Solar beads  Lab Stop Skin Cancer
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UV Solar beads Lab Stop Skin Cancer

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Need an engaging activity to investigate UV radiation and its effect on your student health. Keep your young scientists safe this summer with the knowledge gathered with this fun lab. Your students will be surprised to see white beads change color with exposure to UV light. Great to encourage the use of sunscreen. This lab is perfect for end-of-year, camps or part of your health lessons. I have also used it during my unit on Astronomy MATERIALS UV beads Sunscreen Plastic bags Contains Lab Instructions Worksheet to learn the importance of sunscreen
Biology Macroinvertebrate Pollution Tolerance Index Middle & High School Science
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Biology Macroinvertebrate Pollution Tolerance Index Middle & High School Science

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Your students will love learning about the macroinvertebrates at the water’s edge DATA TO UNDERSTAND OUR ECOSYSTEM This product is perfect for Earth Day Ecology Camp lessons End of School STEM Science Camp Macroinvertebrates are subjected to day-to-day and longer-term changes in pollution, oxygen levels, and acidity levels., The type of macroinvertebrates students find in the stream reflects how healthy that still is overall or most of the time. This lab is a real-world test to determine the health of a stream. Students will be engaged to collect their samples and graph the results. Perfect for warm weather. No time to set up or break down this lab!!! MATERIALS Net Water (lake or stream) Magnifying glass Trays Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment. Examples of the design process include examining human environmental impacts, assessing the kinds of solutions that are feasible, and designing and evaluating solutions that could reduce that impact. Examples of human impacts can include water usage (such as the withdrawal of water from streams and aquifers or the construction of dams and levees), land usage (such as urban development, agriculture, or the removal of wetlands), and pollution (such as of the air, water, or land). If this product could really benefit your classroom, but you are not in a good financial situation to buy the product, please contact me and I will give you the product for free, no questions asked.
AP Biology Cellular Energy and ATP Worksheet, Sub Plans
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AP Biology Cellular Energy and ATP Worksheet, Sub Plans

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Cellular Respiration This is an excellent lesson especially for a sub. We all know that most subs do not know AP biology so this is an excellent lesson to give to them A must have to get your students ready for the AP Placement Tests All the key terms for this unit are listed with an complete answer key at the end. Just Print and go Product contains Key Terms Multiple Choice Activity using Legos Complete answer key with explanations given Crossword puzzle Answer key explains why it is the correct answer. Written in red ink to make it easier for you to grade
AP Biology Evolution and Common Ancestry Labs and Multiple Choice
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AP Biology Evolution and Common Ancestry Labs and Multiple Choice

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https://youtube.com/shorts/0tQVk1XtZ0s?si=k_zv11c23vH6w31Z Description This educational resource offers a hands-on approach to teaching AP Biology Evolution, encompassing two comprehensive labs: “Genetic Diversity in Bacteria” and “Can the Environment Affect Survival.” Written with both the classroom and homeschool teacher Print and Go! Product Contains Vocabulary list for students, Graphic organizer illustrating embryonic development, Practice AP Biology test with an answer key, Supplementary readings Two Activities This product is designed to streamline and enhance the teaching process significantly. For parents seeking alternative options, there is a dedicated reading explaining perspectives opposing the theory of evolution. Science concepts. The student knows evolutionary theory is a scientific explanation for the unity and diversity of life. The student is expected to: analyze and evaluate how the elements of natural selection, including inherited variation, the potential of a population to produce more offspring than can survive, and a finite supply of environmental resources, result in differential reproductive success; Moreover, the content thoroughly covers C.E.D. 7.6,7.7,7.10 and 7.11
AP Biology Fungi Unit Labs, and Readings High School Science
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AP Biology Fungi Unit Labs, and Readings High School Science

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Description To excel in standardized tests, students must grasp the interconnection between fungi and the ecosystem. The Fungi Unit bundle offers of stimulating resources and innovative concepts suitable for both traditional classroom settings and homeschool environments. Engagement and hands-on experiences are key to effective learning, and this product is tailored to equip students with the necessary knowledge for success in AP Biology. Streamline your teaching responsibilities with robust foundational content, featuring: A comprehensive overview of the Fungi kingdom. Four interactive labs to delve into the realm of fungi. In-depth coverage of essential vocabulary terms. LO 1.17,1.18,EK 1B.1 EU:1.B
AP Biology Cellular Respiration Barf Lab and Directed Readings
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AP Biology Cellular Respiration Barf Lab and Directed Readings

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https://youtube.com/shorts/wRPCRFdLE4E?si=L1I_9jOZRo2SEiXU Description This resource aims to simplify complex topics, a task that the existing textbook may not achieve. It is designed to equip students for the cellular respiration section of the AP exam, ultimately saving teachers valuable preparation time. Easy-to-follow answer key Product contains Clear diagrams illustrating each step. Teacher notes for guidance. Test questions to assess understanding. The engaging “Barf Lab” activity offers a fun approach to reinforce learning. This inquiry lab involves very little preparation. Students set up the lab by mixing cereal, yeast, and water and then monitoring the expansion of the gas during the alcoholic fermentation process. By comparing class data on different cereals, students can identify the best source of sugar for the yeast. It visually maps the metabolic pathways of Cellular Respiration, catering to the needs of AP Biology students.
A P Biology Genetics & Evolution lab Adapt of Bird Beaks Darwin
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A P Biology Genetics & Evolution lab Adapt of Bird Beaks Darwin

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This activity has students model how different environmental factors can favor certain traits. Instead of using nuts and rice, you might choose to use birdseed which includes a variety of seed sizes. Students will discover how different beaks can impact what a bird is able to eat—detailed directions illustrated with clip art of different bird species. A must-lab for every teacher of evolution! Great lab for your nature lesson at camp! Objectives Understand that birds occupy different niches in the environment, allowing many birds to live in the same area. Understand that birds have different types of beaks and the beak type reflects the kind of food eaten Materials Several different tools for picking up small things, such as regular pliers, needle-nose pliers, tweezers, kitchen tongs Tray with small objects, such as nuts and rice Small Cup
Genetics Monstrous Genetics lab
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Genetics Monstrous Genetics lab

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Your middle school students will be excited to learn how genetic mutations can make the difference if a species lives or becomes extinct. This is an activity which has been classroom tested for many years. Great as an introduction or conclusion lab in genetics. You can also teach this lab in your unit of evolution. Students will discover how often mutations will not help an organism survive. They will work in teams to overcome challenges presented in this activity.