Hero image

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.
The Great Ice Cube Melt
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

The Great Ice Cube Melt

(0)
Students design and create containers that will keep one standard-sized ice cubes in their solid form for a set period of time. The winner is the person who creates the container that keeps the ice cube solid for the longest period of time. Ribbon Templates are included for first, second, and third prize After the actual “Great Ice Cube Melt” students will analyze what worked and what did not Take the classic STEM challenge to the next level. Question Can you build a better cooler that can hold ice colder longer? This lab is an application of the engineering process. Also, includes Engineering Geometry Ratios Critical thinking Materials are common items around the home No prep for you but lots of science for your students. Students learn and apply concepts in thermodynamics and energy—mainly convection, conduction, and radiation— to solve a challenge. This is accomplished by splitting students into teams and having them follow the engineering design process to design and build a small insulated box, with the goal of keeping an ice cube frozen
Speed of falling objects lab
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Speed of falling objects lab

(0)
A quick fun lab to teach students about the speed of falling objects. Perfect for a physics class. There is no prep or clean up involved. Students will understand gravity after performing this lab.
Physcis  Bouncing Ball Labs Kinetic and Potential  Energy
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Physcis Bouncing Ball Labs Kinetic and Potential Energy

(0)
Are you looking for a fun way to teach your physics students how to create time graphs Here is your solution. Quick prep and no mess to clean up! Students will use balls to plot the movements of an object traveling at a constant speed This product contains detailed instructions to make it easier for you to have success with this lab Objective Students will be able to create their own position versus time graphs in two separate trials with the application of algebra equations The product is in Microsoft word so you can easily make any changes you would like to suit your individual needs. It is 2 pages which you are free to alter to suit your individual needs Standards are listed below HS-PS2-2. Use mathematical representations to show that the total momentum of a system of interacting objects is conserved when there is no net force on the system. Clarification Statement: • Emphasis is on the qualitative meaning of the conservation of momentum and the quantitative understanding of the conservation of linear momentum in interactions involving elastic and inelastic collisions between two objects in one dimension. HS-PS2-2. Use mathematical representations to show that the total momentum of a system of interacting objects is conserved when there is no net force on the system. Clarification Statement: • Emphasis is on the qualitative meaning of the conservation of momentum and the quantitative understanding of the conservation of linear momentum in interactions involving elastic and inelastic collisions between two objects in one dimension.
Physics Learn about time graphs lab  High School Science
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Physics Learn about time graphs lab High School Science

(0)
Inspire your students to apply physics to learning about time graphs lab **Objective **Create position versus time graphs for two separate objects rolled down the hallway in two separate trials, and use the graphs to predict, both graphically and algebraically, the time and place at which the objects will cross if they are both rolled in one trial. The product is written in word so you can easily make any changes you would like to suit your individual needs. Students will use balls to plot the movements of an object traveling at a constant speed This product contains detailed instructions to make it easier for you to have success with this Standards are listed mathematical representations to show that the total momentum of a system of interacting objects is conserved when there is no net force on the system. Clarification Statement: • Emphasis is on the qualitative meaning of the conservation of momentum and the quantitative understanding of the conservation of linear momentum in interactions involving elastic and inelastic collisions between two objects in one dimension. HS-PS2-2. Use mathematical representations to show that the total momentum of a system of interacting objects is conserved when there is no net force on the system. Clarification Statement: • Emphasis is on the qualitative meaning of the conservation of momentum and the quantitative understanding of the conservation of linear momentum in interactions involving elastic and inelastic collisions between two objects in one dimension.
Physics Newton's Law of Gravitation  WebQuest Subplots
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Physics Newton's Law of Gravitation WebQuest Subplots

(0)
Have you encountered substitute teachers who struggled with comprehending high school physics textbooks? This substitute plan aims to address this issue by introducing an engaging WebQuest to challenge your students. The project focuses on applying Newton’s Law of Gravitation by utilizing a website that visualizes stars and planets visible at any specific date, time, and location in recent history. Originating in the mid-1600s, Isaac Newton’s Law of Universal Gravitation revolutionized the understanding of gravitational attraction between two objects based on their masses and separation distance. Through this project, students will explore and compare gravitational forces between objects of varying sizes placed at different proximities. Utilize the provided website to observe the celestial configuration on the date and time of your birth. HS-ESS1-4: Orbital Motions Use mathematical or computational representations to predict the motion of orbiting objects in the solar system. (Scale, Proportion, and Quantity) Clarification Statement: Emphasis is on Newtonian gravitational laws governing orbital motions, which apply to human-made satellites as well as planets and moons. Assessment Boundary: Mathematical representations for the gravitational attraction of bodies and Kepler’s Laws of orbital motions should not deal with more than two bodies, nor involve calculus.
Physics Inertia Three Fun Labs Newton's first law
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Physics Inertia Three Fun Labs Newton's first law

(0)
This product contains 3 hands on experiments to teach Newton’s laws and inertia. The materials are already in your kitchen. 7.MS-PS3-2. Develop a model to describe the relationship between the relative positions of objects interacting at a distance and their relative potential energy in the system. 8.MS-PS2-1. Develop a model that demonstrates Newton’s third law involving the motion of two colliding objects. 8.MS-PS2-2. Provide evidence that the change in an object’s speed depends on the sum of the forces on the object (the net force) and the mass of the object. Clarification Statement: •Emphasis is on balanced (Newton’s first law) and unbalanced forces in a system, qualitative comparisons of forces, mass, and changes in speed (Newton’s second law) in one dimension. Embark on an engaging scientific project that explores the intriguing concept of influencing a coin flip. Tailored for students in grades 8 to 10, this laboratory experiment challenges conventional statistical norms. By delving into the captivating domain of statistics, the project aims to ascertain the likelihood of a coin landing on heads or tails, while also exploring the potential impact of the individual flipping the coin. Laboratory 1: This interactive experiment not only fosters critical thinking but also hones students’ data analysis skills. By unraveling the enigma of probability, participants delve into the captivating world of coin flips, offering a hands-on approach to understanding statistical concepts. Laboratory 2: Students are introduced to a practical application of Newton’s First Law of Motion in determining the state of an egg – whether raw or hard-boiled – by examining the egg’s center of gravity. Laboratory 3: In the final experiment, students engage in a fun yet enlightening exploration involving a buttered piece of toast dropped from a table. This experiment serves as an engaging way to comprehend the concept of inertia in objects. Total Pages 10 pages Answer Key Included
Lab - AP Physics 1 – The Mu of Your Shoe
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Lab - AP Physics 1 – The Mu of Your Shoe

(0)
“Mu of a Shoe”: An Exploration of Low-Tech Friction The primary aim of this laboratory experiment is to ascertain the static and kinetic coefficients of friction pertaining to a shoe on a tabletop surface. By utilizing a shoe, a spring scale, and weights, the goal is to analyze the factors influencing the force required to move the shoe across a specified surface. Materials required for this experiment include a protractor, spring scales with varying measuring scales, one or more shoes, a laboratory table, and a range of weights. Upon completion of this practical, students will engage in a comparative analysis between the static coefficient of friction and the kinetic coefficient of friction, presented in a formal Claim-Evidence-Reasoning format.
Astronomy Viewing the Eclipse April 8, 2024 Lab Middle School Science
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Astronomy Viewing the Eclipse April 8, 2024 Lab Middle School Science

(0)
https://youtube.com/shorts/mISCjMRuPX0?si=ixpYl9V5GOO4h9yc Description Celebrate the upcoming 2024 Solar Eclipse with our comprehensive Total Solar Eclipse Teaching Lesson. On Monday, April 8th, 2024, a total solar eclipse will traverse North America Objective: To demonstrate an eclipse of the sun and the moon using models Materials: Light bulb Golf bulb Tennis ball How to safely view this event is outlined in this product!! This educational resource is designed to equip elementary students with engaging activities to enlighten them about this momentous astronomical event. If you are encountering difficulties in teaching the concept of Eclipses to your middle school students, this resource can provide valuable assistance. The product has two main sections Hands-on activity to simulate an eclipse. Detailed safety procedures for observing the eclipse on the day of the event. Benefits: Enhance Engagement: Transform the Total Solar Eclipse into a dynamic and educational experience that captivates students through interactive learning. I By incorporating hands-on activities, this lesson ensures that all students can delve into the marvels of the Solar Eclipse. Ideal for educators and homeschooling parents aiming to fascinate their students with the enchantment of the 2024 Solar Eclipse. This lesson is suitable for both traditional classroom settings and homeschooling environments, offering quick setup and breakdown for ease of use.
Physics Sound Resonance Lab Instructions
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Physics Sound Resonance Lab Instructions

(0)
If you’re looking for a fun, easy, precise sound resonance lab, this has worked great for years. To actually be able to find the speed of sound at around 340 m/s in a classroom setting is pretty amazing. Physics students will love determining the speed of sound in air with this fun and editable lab! This activity is ideal for a classroom setting or for the homeschooler. Objective Calculate the speed of sound using the principle of resonance in a tube.
Weather Thunderstorm Lab for Physics and Earth science
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Weather Thunderstorm Lab for Physics and Earth science

(0)
**Fun lab ** Your students will love making a thunderstorm at their lab stations This lesson can be used for teaching a unit on weather or your high school physics class. Contains 2 readings Lab Oral questions for you to ask with answers included Objectives Model the buildup of charges that can occur during a storm Model a Lightning Strike Use a ground to control the path of discharge Materials Modeling clay 2 Aluminum pie pans Foam plate Wool cloth Paper Clip Total Pages 9 pages Answer Key N/A Teaching Duration 1 hour****
Star Frame Constellations
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Star Frame Constellations

(0)
This is a fun lab for students to learn important constellations. Clear step by step instructions with materials found in every classroom. Lessons has been classroom tested for many years.!
Temperature and evaporation
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Temperature and evaporation

(0)
This lab can be used in a chemistry, health, physics or Earth Science class. Students will learn the effects of evaporation on cooling. Materials are items found in every science class. They will fill in a chart with their data to discover the information for themselves. A worksheet is included to check your students; understanding. *Answer key is provided
Planets'size lab
heidimacarthurheidimacarthur

Planets'size lab

(0)
Your students will have a terrific time in this activity when they model the different size of the planets. This lesson will enable you to teach your students the differences in the sizes of the planets using everyday objects. Classroom tested! This lesson is fully editable.