All Activities

Dance the Shim Sham

Arts, Leadership and Teamwork

Grades 3 - 8

Dance the Shim Sham

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Students learn four basic Shim Sham movements. The combination is repeated over and over, mimicking patterns found in the dance's companion song. Students then modernize the dance, applying their own unique twists.

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Dance the Shim ShamArts, Leadership and Teamwork

1 Hour•Grades 3 - 8

S.INQ Mechanical Engineering Catapults Part 2

STEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades K - 5

S.INQ Mechanical Engineering Catapults Part 2

OregonASK

K - 5

30 Minutes

Students learn about Mechanical Engineering as they use the Engineering Design Process to make a catapult that will fling a marshmallow the furthest, focusing on distance and power as they test and modify their designs.

To gather background information on this activity, try the activity "S.INQ Mechanical Engineering Catapults".

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S.INQ Mechanical Engineering Catapults Part 2STEM, Nature and Wildlife

30 Minutes•Grades K - 5

A News Show Structure: Block G and Kickers

Digital Media and Communications, Literacy

Grades 3 - 5

A News Show Structure: Block G and Kickers

PBS

3 - 5

30 Minutes

Students embark on a journey into news storytelling, emotions, and impactful communication. Engage in positive reporting with a trip to a fake World’s Fair of Achievements.

This activity can be completed as a standalone lesson. It is, however, best completed as part of SRL’s The News Show Structure. This series is also the second section of SRL’s First Module From Concept to Screen: Building Your News Hour. The module is broken into three sections. The first two contain lessons that can be completed as standalone activities or as part of a series. All three sections converge to provide a powerful and fun introduction to producing and hosting news shows. The module is followed by a second that deepens student knowledge and skills.

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A News Show Structure: Block G and KickersDigital Media and Communications, Literacy

30 Minutes•Grades 3 - 5

Save the Oceans!

History and Society, Nature and Wildlife

Grades 9 - 12

Save the Oceans!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students learn about and discuss the importance of conserving and sustainably using the world's oceans and then create advertisements to persuade others of the importance of oceans.

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Save the Oceans!History and Society, Nature and Wildlife

45 Minutes•Grades 9 - 12

Ultimate Cup Stack (Team Building) Game

Leadership and Teamwork, STEM

Grades 3 - 12

Video

Ultimate Cup Stack (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

3 - 12

20 Minutes

Be the fastest team to build a large pyramid using only a string and a rubber band!

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Video

Ultimate Cup Stack (Team Building) GameLeadership and Teamwork, STEM

20 Minutes•Grades 3 - 12

Making a Kaleidoscope

Arts, STEM

Grades 3 - 8

Making a Kaleidoscope

OregonASK

3 - 8

1 Hour

Students make a simple, colorful Kaleidoscope and experiment with manipulating light.

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Making a KaleidoscopeArts, STEM

1 Hour•Grades 3 - 8

OnTRaC: Networking for Creative Careers

Arts, Career and Future Readiness

Grades 9 - 12

OnTRaC: Networking for Creative Careers

ArtsConnection

9 - 12

1 Hour 30 Minutes

This activity invites young people to explore careers in the arts and creative fields by first identifying the skills and resources in their own personal networks. Using brainstorming, drawing mind maps, and group discussion, participants will create a roadmap for a professional network that will help guide them in their goals. Then, young people will role-play networking conversations.

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OnTRaC: Networking for Creative CareersArts, Career and Future Readiness

1 Hour 30 Minutes•Grades 9 - 12

Many Ways to Read (Grades K-2)

Literacy, Digital Media and Communications

Grades K - 2

Many Ways to Read (Grades K-2)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children listen to a book read aloud to them, and then they read books on their own. This simple activity shows children that they can read and enjoy books in many different ways, including by themselves, with a friend, or in a large group.

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Many Ways to Read (Grades K-2)Literacy, Digital Media and Communications

45 Minutes•Grades K - 2

Invasive Species Data Analysis

Nature and Wildlife, STEM, Leadership and Teamwork

Grades 6 - 8

Invasive Species Data Analysis

City Parks Foundation

6 - 8

1 Hour

In this lesson, students will learn to plot and analyze invasive species data. They will also collaborate with peers to determine the level of risk that invasive species pose to a habitat and consider ideas for intervention.

This is activity 3 of 5 in the "Invasive Species" module from City Parks Foundation.

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Invasive Species Data AnalysisNature and Wildlife, STEM, Leadership and Teamwork

1 Hour•Grades 6 - 8

Empirical Data in Classrooms: Raptor Migrations

Nature and Wildlife, STEM

Grades 3 - 8

Empirical Data in Classrooms: Raptor Migrations

California Academy of Sciences

3 - 8

1 Hour

Why do birds migrate? How do seasonal changes in primary productivity influence the behaviors of higher order consumers like raptors? Visualize and explore the connectedness of organisms within and across ecosystems in this teacher-guided activity.

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Empirical Data in Classrooms: Raptor MigrationsNature and Wildlife, STEM

1 Hour•Grades 3 - 8

Heart Beat Challenge

STEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades 3 - 8

Heart Beat Challenge

OregonASK

3 - 8

1 Hour

Students learn about Stethoscopes and recognize heart beats. They will also learn how to find a person's heartbeat.

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Heart Beat ChallengeSTEM, Nature and Wildlife

1 Hour•Grades 3 - 8

Call to Service(Grades 6-8)

Social and Emotional Awareness, Leadership and Teamwork

Grades 6 - 8

Call to Service(Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students research and present a service project that they think is worthy of their efforts in a future afterschool session. The group then votes on which project to take on in a future session.

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Call to Service(Grades 6-8)Social and Emotional Awareness, Leadership and Teamwork

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Shifting the Frame (Student Reporting Labs)

Digital Media and Communications, Literacy

Grades 6 - 12

Shifting the Frame (Student Reporting Labs)

PBS

6 - 12

50 Minutes

Students will visually map portrayals of their communities in the news media. The result will be a graphic organizer of unique perspectives and story ideas.

This is activity 1 of 16 in the PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs Module. Visit the Module to learn more before getting started.

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Shifting the Frame (Student Reporting Labs)Digital Media and Communications, Literacy

50 Minutes•Grades 6 - 12

Create a Career Presentation

Career and Future Readiness, Literacy

Grades 6 - 8

Create a Career Presentation

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students prepare a computer presentation on a career of interest. They research the career of interest, find related photos, and write captions.

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Create a Career PresentationCareer and Future Readiness, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Reader’s Theater and Poetry (Grades 6-8)

Arts, Literacy

Grades 6 - 8

Reader’s Theater and Poetry (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students practice presenting a short story in a flexible reader's theater format. They plan their presentation in small groups. Then they read aloud and add special effects in a group performance.

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Reader’s Theater and Poetry (Grades 6-8)Arts, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Clay Coil Pot

Arts, Literacy

Grades 3 - 12

Clay Coil Pot

OregonASK

3 - 12

1 Hour

Students learn how to create a coil pot by molding clay and have the opportunity to decorate their works.

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Clay Coil PotArts, Literacy

1 Hour•Grades 3 - 12

Pollinators and Their Flowers

Nature and Wildlife, STEM

Grades K - 8

Pollinators and Their Flowers

National Wildlife Federation

K - 8

50 Minutes

Flowering plants are much more common than non-flowering plants. The success of flowering plants is primarily due to the flower’s close relationship with animals in the process called pollination. Over time, flowers have developed adaptations to ensure that the best pollinator for their species will visit and often return to feed. In fact, flowers’ fragrance, bright colors, nourishing nectar, and varied shapes are considered adaptations to attract specific pollinators. For example, the bright colors of flower petals are thought to help flowers stand out against a green background. Many flowers, such as a black-eyed susan, have a bull’s eye pattern of color to focus animal attention on the part of the flower with pollen and nectar. Violets have both a weak bull’s eye pattern and “nectar-guides”— a pattern that radiates out from the nectar cup. Many flowers have nectar guides, which aren’t always visible to the human eye.

Birds and bees find different flowers attractive, largely due to differences in the animal senses. Birds have a poor sense of smell but a keen color vision. Bees use both color and odors to find a suitable flower. The shape of the flower also plays a role in determining the kind of pollinator who can feed from the flower. Butterflies must have a perch to land on while feeding. Hummingbirds can hover in front of the flower and so don’t need a place to land. Pollinators have also adapted to ensure that they will have access to flower nectar. Animal

adaptations include a sense of smell, color, preferences, beak shape (especially noticeable in hummingbirds), and tongue length.

The activity children will complete has them making flower observations as pollinators come and go, then asks them to consider why some pollinators frequent specific flowers more than or instead of others.

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Pollinators and Their FlowersNature and Wildlife, STEM

50 Minutes•Grades K - 8

Respect and Learn from Others (Grades 6-8)

Social and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

Grades 6 - 8

Respect and Learn from Others (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students learn about tolerance by learning about their peers and recognizing and appreciating their similarities and differences. The activity builds communication and listening skills and also helps students learn to respect one another’s strengths, interests, and perspectives.

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Respect and Learn from Others (Grades 6-8)Social and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Like and Comment (Team Building) Game

Social and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

Grades 3 - 12

Video

Like and Comment (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

3 - 12

30 Minutes

Create a positive, real-world social media environment where art and memories are displayed for others to like and comment!

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Video

Like and Comment (Team Building) GameSocial and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

30 Minutes•Grades 3 - 12

Functional Fitness Week 6: Day 1

Health and Wellness, Leadership and Teamwork

Grades K - 8

Functional Fitness Week 6: Day 1

Active Kids and Minds

K - 8

40 Minutes

Start week 6 by learning the skill of the week: Squats. In this activity, students test their endurance with stations and a game of Toilet Tag. Then, they learn about dairy foods.

This activity is part of the Active Kids and Minds Functional Fitness 12-week program. If you are new to the program, visit the Active Kids and Minds Functional Fitness: Weeks 1-4 Collection before getting started.

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Functional Fitness Week 6: Day 1Health and Wellness, Leadership and Teamwork

40 Minutes•Grades K - 8

What Makes a Year?

STEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades 6 - 8

What Makes a Year?

OregonASK

6 - 8

30 Minutes

Students create a diagram of how the Earth rotates around the sun, making a year.

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What Makes a Year?STEM, Nature and Wildlife

30 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

What Kind of Day Did I Have?

Social and Emotional Awareness, Health and Wellness

Grades K - 2

What Kind of Day Did I Have?

kid-grit

K - 2

15 Minutes

At the end of program time, use this reflection activity to help students think critically about the day and what they learned. In this activity, students practice reflection by identifying and exploring something that was a challenge for them that day. Students can share, journal, or draw it out. In the second part of the activity, they will develop and provide solutions for each other to show that there are ways to navigate difficult things.

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What Kind of Day Did I Have?Social and Emotional Awareness, Health and Wellness

15 Minutes•Grades K - 2

Stop the Madness!

Digital Media and Communications, Social and Emotional Awareness

Grades 3 - 12

Stop the Madness!

kid-grit

3 - 12

45 Minutes

Web-based information and content can definitely be false. It is always important to be an educated participant of information on the internet. How can we ourselves- and then our students- learn how to decipher what is true or false? In this lesson, we will ask students to do their own research about internet 'information' and how to examine it with a critical eye.

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Stop the Madness!Digital Media and Communications, Social and Emotional Awareness

45 Minutes•Grades 3 - 12

Meet the Me Puppet

Social and Emotional Awareness, Arts

Grades 3 - 5

Meet the Me Puppet

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students make a sock puppet to represent themselves. Then the group uses their puppets to have conversations with one another. The activity aims to provide students with an outlet for speaking up in their own voice. Another benefit of the activity is that it allows students to define the elements of their essential selves.

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Meet the Me PuppetSocial and Emotional Awareness, Arts

45 Minutes•Grades 3 - 5

Website Design: Band Sites

Arts, Digital Media and Communications

Grades 9 - 12

Website Design: Band Sites

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students use wireframe sketches and colored pencils or watercolors to plan, design, and present a new home page website idea for a favorite music group.

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Website Design: Band SitesArts, Digital Media and Communications

45 Minutes•Grades 9 - 12

Messages to the Past

Social and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

Grades 6 - 8

Messages to the Past

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

In this activity, students activate their imagination by writing a letter to a parent or significant adult in their life, and addressing the recipient as middle school students.

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Messages to the PastSocial and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Nice to Ya!

Social and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

Grades K - 2

Nice to Ya!

kid-grit

K - 2

10 Minutes

The goal of this activity is to support students in building kindness and empathy skills. Empathy is the key to connection and emotional intelligence. As children get older, they will use their emotional intelligence in several areas of their lives to become happy and productive people.

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Nice to Ya!Social and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

10 Minutes•Grades K - 2

How to Remember Names (Grades 9-12)

Social and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

Grades 9 - 12

How to Remember Names (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students practice association strategies to remember other's names (or fictitious names), including making up visualizations and stories to help jog thei memory.

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How to Remember Names (Grades 9-12)Social and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades 9 - 12

Fact or Opinion?

Digital Media and Communications, Literacy

Grades 6 - 8

Fact or Opinion?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

In this activity, students learn to distinguish between facts and opinions in informational texts.

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Fact or Opinion?Digital Media and Communications, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Literature Squares (Grades 6-8)

Literacy, Arts

Grades 6 - 8

Literature Squares (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Hollywood Squares is a television game show that was launched in the 1960s and has remained popular in various formats to this day. In this activity, students replace the celebrities with characters from literature, and they answer questions about their books. This activity uses an enjoyable premise to build knowledge and awareness of literature. It may inspire students to delve further into reading.

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Literature Squares (Grades 6-8)Literacy, Arts

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

The International Space Station (Grades 3-5)

History and Society, STEM

Grades 3 - 5

The International Space Station (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students watch videos about the International Space Station and then collaborate as teams to complete a matching puzzle about the station.

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The International Space Station (Grades 3-5)History and Society, STEM

45 Minutes•Grades 3 - 5

Literature Squares (Grades 9-12)

Literacy, Arts

Grades 9 - 12

Literature Squares (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Hollywood Squares is a well-known and popular television game show. In this activity, students recreate the game with characters from literature, and they answer questions about their books. This activity uses an enjoyable premise to build knowledge and awareness of literature and may inspire students to delve further into reading.

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Literature Squares (Grades 9-12)Literacy, Arts

45 Minutes•Grades 9 - 12

Handling Stress (Grades 6-8)

Social and Emotional Awareness, Health and Wellness

Grades 6 - 8

Handling Stress (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

In this activity, students explore situations in their lives that cause stress, the potentially harmful effects of stress, and how they can manage stressful situations.

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Handling Stress (Grades 6-8)Social and Emotional Awareness, Health and Wellness

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Post or Not Post?

Digital Media and Communications, Social and Emotional Awareness

Grades 9 - 12

Post or Not Post?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students decide whether or not a post on social media is appropriate. They discover that the answer may depend mostly on their own values and personal guidelines.

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Post or Not Post?Digital Media and Communications, Social and Emotional Awareness

45 Minutes•Grades 9 - 12

There Are (At Least) 2 Sides to Every Story

Digital Media and Communications, Literacy

Grades 9 - 12

There Are (At Least) 2 Sides to Every Story

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

In this activity, students read news stories on a variety of news sites, comparing how the same stories are presented differently depending on the site.

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There Are (At Least) 2 Sides to Every StoryDigital Media and Communications, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades 9 - 12

S.INQ Sound Pitch Part 2

STEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades K - 5

S.INQ Sound Pitch Part 2

OregonASK

K - 5

30 Minutes

Students will have the opportunity to experiment with pitch in sounds by designing and testing their own "Sound Contraptions" which can make four sounds each at a different pitch, arranged in order from low to high.

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S.INQ Sound Pitch Part 2STEM, Nature and Wildlife

30 Minutes•Grades K - 5

The Big Easy: Day 7 Lesson

Arts, Literacy

Grades 3 - 8

The Big Easy: Day 7 Lesson

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Welcome to Lesson 7 of Jazz at Lincoln Center's module, "The Big Easy"! Join the rhythm! students participate in a dynamic drum circle while mastering quarter notes, quarter rests, and half notes through musical notations.

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The Big Easy: Day 7 LessonArts, Literacy

1 Hour•Grades 3 - 8

Market Research

Career and Future Readiness, STEM

Grades 6 - 8

Market Research

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students will conceptualize a new product or service and develop a market research survey to help guide development of the product. Then they will compile and analyze the results of the survey in order to fine-tune their product or service concept. This activity builds research, analytical thinking, and collaboration skills.

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Market ResearchCareer and Future Readiness, STEM

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Teens Curate Teens: Developing a Theme

Arts, Literacy

Grades 9 - 12

Teens Curate Teens: Developing a Theme

ArtsConnection

9 - 12

1 Hour 30 Minutes

The goal of Teens Curate Teens is to collaboratively assemble an exhibition of artwork created by teens exploring a compelling theme. To start, teens will brainstorm topics or issues important to them. After selecting a theme, students will research multiple viewpoints on the theme. Finally they'll work independently or collaboratively to write an introductory text for their exhibition.

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Teens Curate Teens: Developing a ThemeArts, Literacy

1 Hour 30 Minutes•Grades 9 - 12

Lion Dance

Arts, Leadership and Teamwork

Grades 3 - 5

Lion Dance

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students explore how animal movements can inspire dance. They watch a short film of the Chinese Lion Dance, and then design an animal dance of their own.

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Lion DanceArts, Leadership and Teamwork

45 Minutes•Grades 3 - 5

MLS STEM Goals: Sportsmanship Contract

STEM, Social and Emotional Awareness

Grades K - 12

MLS STEM Goals: Sportsmanship Contract

Learn Fresh

K - 12

45 Minutes

To start the MLS STEM Goals experience, all students are asked to sign a Sportsmanship Contract! Just like an MLS player, this affirms their commitment to their team and league. An additional curriculum spotlight on sportsmanship asks them to reflect on the skills necessary to be a great competitor.

This is activity 1 of 8 in the MSL STEM Goals Collection from Learn Fresh. To view all activities and Quality Instructional Practices for planning and facilitation, visit the MLS STEM Goals Collection page.

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MLS STEM Goals: Sportsmanship ContractSTEM, Social and Emotional Awareness

45 Minutes•Grades K - 12

Tap to Your Toes

Health and Wellness, Social and Emotional Awareness

Grades 3 - 5

Tap to Your Toes

kid-grit

3 - 5

15 Minutes

In this closing activity, students explore physical exercises and tapping methods to relieve stress. Using physical stress relievers is another way to reduce anxiety, especially for students who don’t like to talk about it. This activity can be used anytime, all year round!

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Tap to Your ToesHealth and Wellness, Social and Emotional Awareness

15 Minutes•Grades 3 - 5

What Makes a Strong Online Community? (Grades 3-5)

Digital Media and Communications, Social and Emotional Awareness

Grades 3 - 5

What Makes a Strong Online Community? (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students model conversations about a wide variety of topics on social media.

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What Makes a Strong Online Community? (Grades 3-5)Digital Media and Communications, Social and Emotional Awareness

45 Minutes•Grades 3 - 5

A News Show Structure: Block D and Human-interest Stories

Digital Media and Communications, Literacy

Grades 3 - 5

A News Show Structure: Block D and Human-interest Stories

PBS

3 - 5

30 Minutes

Step into the world of heartwarming storytelling! Students explore the magic of human-interest stories, celebrating incredible achievements and acts of kindness within their community. Get ready to share stories that touch the heart!

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A News Show Structure: Block D and Human-interest StoriesDigital Media and Communications, Literacy

30 Minutes•Grades 3 - 5

MLB Players STEM League Lesson 2: Baseball Basics

STEM, Leadership and Teamwork

Grades 3 - 8

MLB Players STEM League Lesson 2: Baseball Basics

Learn Fresh

3 - 8

1 Hour

In this lesson, students will discover baseball's fundamental rules, structure, and terminology as they prepare for the STEM League season. Along the way, they'll explore how runs are scored, how teams work together, and how basic arithmetic—like multiplication, addition, and comparison—fits into the game.

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MLB Players STEM League Lesson 2: Baseball BasicsSTEM, Leadership and Teamwork

1 Hour•Grades 3 - 8

My Little Camp

Health and Wellness, Nature and Wildlife

Grades K - 8

My Little Camp

National Wildlife Federation

K - 8

50 Minutes

Camping can be enjoyed year round. The National Wildlife Federation hosts the Great American Campout, a summer-long celebration exploring the wild outdoors through camping through October 31. Camping can happen just about anywhere — at a neighborhood, state or national park and even in your own backyard. This is a fun, easy way for family and friends to connect with nature and wildlife.

Today the average American child spends more than seven hours a day in front of an electronic screen, but as few as 30 minutes in unstructured outdoor play. Getting kids in nature is proven to reduce stress, improve sleep, and even lead to higher test scores. A child’s mind, body and spirit markedly improve in response to unstructured outdoor play.

MIND: Exposure to natural settings may be widely effective in reducing ADHD symptoms.

BODY: Outdoor play increases fitness levels and builds active, healthy bodies, an important strategy in helping the one in three American kids who are obese, get fit.

SPIRIT: Nature makes children nicer, enhancing social interactions, value for community and close relationships.

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My Little CampHealth and Wellness, Nature and Wildlife

50 Minutes•Grades K - 8

Seascape

Arts, Nature and Wildlife

Grades K - 2

Seascape

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

First, children paint a seascape with water, waves, and a beach. Then, on separate paper, they draw sea animals: fish, crabs, dolphins, sharks, and so on. Next, children cut out the animals, arrange them on their background, and glue them down. They discuss the design element of balance.

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SeascapeArts, Nature and Wildlife

45 Minutes•Grades K - 2

Make a Spinning Selfie

Social and Emotional Awareness, Arts

Grades K - 5

Make a Spinning Selfie

Rediscover Center

K - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students will make a selfie (self-portrait) that spins!

This project was inspired by The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin, written by Julia Finley Mosca and illustrated by Daniel Rieley. Dr. Grandin is an incredible scientist, animal rights advocate, and spokesperson on autism and neurodiversity.

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Make a Spinning SelfieSocial and Emotional Awareness, Arts

45 Minutes•Grades K - 5

Take it Outside! Air Temperature Survey

Nature and Wildlife, STEM

Grades 6 - 8

Take it Outside! Air Temperature Survey

City Parks Foundation

6 - 8

1 Hour 25 Minutes

This activity will introduce students to the powerful role of trees within our environment, especially how the role of the street tree in particular relates to the higher quality of life in our city, students adopt a different attitude.

This is activity 2 of 3 in the "Urban Forests" module from City Parks Foundation.

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Take it Outside! Air Temperature SurveyNature and Wildlife, STEM

1 Hour 25 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

How the Internet Has Changed the Workplace

Career and Future Readiness, STEM

Grades 9 - 12

How the Internet Has Changed the Workplace

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

1 Hour

Technology and the internet have impacted almost every aspect of our daily lives. One of the most drastic changes may be in the way we work. Students explore the ways in which widespread internet usage has impacted the workplace and then discuss the pros and cons of these changes.

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How the Internet Has Changed the WorkplaceCareer and Future Readiness, STEM

1 Hour•Grades 9 - 12

Making a Vinegar Rocket

STEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades 6 - 8

Making a Vinegar Rocket

OregonASK

6 - 8

1 Hour 30 Minutes

Students create and graph the performance of a vinegar rocket and test it.

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Making a Vinegar RocketSTEM, Nature and Wildlife

1 Hour 30 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Yoga for Anxiety (Grades K-2)

Health and Wellness, Social and Emotional Awareness

Grades K - 2

Yoga for Anxiety (Grades K-2)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Yoga can help youth learn to control their emotions - particularly anxiety and worry. This activity leads participants through easy poses to learn about breathing and posture in a youth-friendly way.

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Yoga for Anxiety (Grades K-2)Health and Wellness, Social and Emotional Awareness

45 Minutes•Grades K - 2

On Location

Digital Media and Communications, Literacy

Grades 3 - 5

On Location

PBS

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Ready, set, scout! Students develop a list of considerations to utilize when selecting an on-location interview spot. They evaluate various spaces, determine their suitability for interviews, and then brainstorm relevant stories that could be captured in the space.

This is lesson 19 in “Building a News Hour,” the second module from PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs’ module series.

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On LocationDigital Media and Communications, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades 3 - 5

Reptiles, Amphibians, and Invertebrates

Nature and Wildlife, STEM

Grades K - 8

Reptiles, Amphibians, and Invertebrates

National Wildlife Federation

K - 8

50 Minutes

Animals can be categorized in many different ways. Scientists and community scientists* use taxonomy or the system used to categorize living things. One way animals are classified is by phylum-sorting animals into categories starting with first, whether they have a backbone or no backbone. Elementary-aged children do not need to know the scientific systems by which animals are categorized, but they do need to begin observing and identifying characteristics that place-specific animals in specific groups. For this activity, children will focus on reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. Both reptiles and amphibians have a backbone, while invertebrates, as the name implies, do not.

*Community scientist is the inclusive term and is synonymous with citizen scientist.

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Reptiles, Amphibians, and InvertebratesNature and Wildlife, STEM

50 Minutes•Grades K - 8

Contributing to a Group Web Page

Digital Media and Communications, Literacy

Grades K - 2

Contributing to a Group Web Page

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

In this activity, students learn that people and groups can build their own web pages. Students look at samples of classroom web pages and learn that pages can be password protected to limit access. They practice writing and drawing in response to questions and then help post and/or see the information posted on a group web page.

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Contributing to a Group Web PageDigital Media and Communications, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades K - 2

What’s Your Angle? News Framing and Bias

Digital Media and Communications, Literacy

Grades 6 - 12

What’s Your Angle? News Framing and Bias

Pulitzer Center

6 - 12

1 Hour

Students will explore how news framing influences the popular understanding of people, places, and ideas. They will practice identifying framing and bias in news headlines they encounter, and will write headlines that offer multiple frames for news stories. Throughout this activity, students will reflect on the personal and social value of being aware of and working to interrupt bias in oneself and in media.

Discover Activity

What’s Your Angle? News Framing and BiasDigital Media and Communications, Literacy

1 Hour•Grades 6 - 12

Career Match

Career and Future Readiness, History and Society

Grades 9 - 12

Career Match

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

When making a difficult personal decision, it sometimes helps to have an anonymous, objective opinion from a peer. In this activity, students brainstorm a list of careers that they might consider for themselves, and then the group will review the inventories anonymously and suggest possible careers that match.

Discover Activity

Career MatchCareer and Future Readiness, History and Society

45 Minutes•Grades 9 - 12

Respect and Learn from Others (Grades 3-5)

Social and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

Grades 3 - 5

Respect and Learn from Others (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students explore the concept of tolerance. As they learn about members of the group, they recognize and appreciate their similarities and differences. This activity builds communication and listening skills and helps students get to know their peers and respect one another’s strengths, interests, and perspectives.

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Respect and Learn from Others (Grades 3-5)Social and Emotional Awareness, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades 3 - 5

Hot Potato Math (Grades K-2)

STEM, Literacy

Grades K - 2

Hot Potato Math (Grades K-2)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

In this activity, learners pass a “hot potato” in a fast-paced game while practicing math through collaborative thinking. With flexible flashcards and built-in choice, this activity builds confidence, participation, and problem-solving—without pressure.

Discover Activity

Hot Potato Math (Grades K-2)STEM, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades K - 2

PSA: Cut Those Rings!

Social and Emotional Awareness, Nature and Wildlife

Grades 3 - 5

PSA: Cut Those Rings!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Public service announcements get people thinking about problems in the world. One large problem is the amount of plastic in our oceans and, in particular, animals getting caught in 6-pack rings. Students design posters to encourage their peers to “Do the Right Thing and Cut Those Rings!,” including facts about plastic in the oceans and informing others how important it is to cut plastic 6-pack rings.

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PSA: Cut Those Rings!Social and Emotional Awareness, Nature and Wildlife

45 Minutes•Grades 3 - 5

Convince Me!

Literacy, Social and Emotional Awareness

Grades 3 - 5

Convince Me!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Performing science experiments, creating your own board game, writing plays, and constructing papier-mâché volcanoes and making them erupt are all fun after-school activities, but which one is the best? In this activity, students nominate an afterschool activity and work with others to make a persuasive argument to convince the leader to choose their activity.

Discover Activity

Convince Me!Literacy, Social and Emotional Awareness

45 Minutes•Grades 3 - 5

Working Together in the Digital Age

Career and Future Readiness, Digital Media and Communications

Grades 6 - 8

Working Together in the Digital Age

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Many companies employ people who work out of their homes and in places all over the world. In this activity, students compare the different ways workers may collaborate, especially using the internet, mobile phones, and other communication technology.

Discover Activity

Working Together in the Digital AgeCareer and Future Readiness, Digital Media and Communications

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Medical Invention Build

STEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades 6 - 8

Medical Invention Build

OregonASK

6 - 8

In this activity, students will create a prototype for their ideas. Students will be able to use their own crafty skills to make their own idea.

Discover Activity

Medical Invention BuildSTEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades 6 - 8

Erosion Experiment

Nature and Wildlife, STEM

Grades 6 - 8

Erosion Experiment

City Parks Foundation

6 - 8

1 Hour 10 Minutes

This lesson aims to explore how sustainable landscaping can be used to strengthen vulnerable habitats.

Robust plant cover provided by parks and other green spaces provide a number of ecosystem services, including protection against soil erosion and stormwater capture. In thinking about ways to combat the effects of climate change, green infrastructure and sustainable landscaping should be at the top of everyone's list! In many places around the world, including New York, climate change effects include increased rainfall and storm surges.

This is activity 1 of 3 in the "Design a Park" module from City Parks Foundation.

Discover Activity

Erosion ExperimentNature and Wildlife, STEM

1 Hour 10 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Tinfoil Raft

STEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades 3 - 12

Tinfoil Raft

OregonASK

3 - 12

1 Hour

Students engineer tinfoil rafts and test how much their weight they can hold before taking on water.

Discover Activity

Tinfoil RaftSTEM, Nature and Wildlife

1 Hour•Grades 3 - 12

Character Charades

Arts, Literacy

Grades 6 - 8

Character Charades

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students play a game of charades in which they act out and guess popular characters and character traits.

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Character CharadesArts, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Interrupting Bias Through News

Digital Media and Communications, History and Society

Grades 6 - 12

Interrupting Bias Through News

Pulitzer Center

6 - 12

1 Hour 30 Minutes

Students will explore what bias is, how it shows up in their lives, and how it can be harmful when left unchecked. They will then brainstorm ways to interrupt bias, and practice methods for doing so through an exploration of underreported news stories.

Discover Activity

Interrupting Bias Through NewsDigital Media and Communications, History and Society

1 Hour 30 Minutes•Grades 6 - 12

Local Hero Scene Part 1

Arts, Social and Emotional Awareness

Grades K - 5

Local Hero Scene Part 1

OregonASK

K - 5

1 Hour 30 Minutes

Students create out their own scene to honor the heroes in their community.

This activity is part 2 of a 5 part series: Everyday Superheroes, Local Hero Scene Part 1, Local Hero Scene Part 2, Preparing for the Local Hero Walk, and Local Hero Walk.

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Local Hero Scene Part 1Arts, Social and Emotional Awareness

1 Hour 30 Minutes•Grades K - 5

Building a Buzzer Alarm

STEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades 6 - 8

Building a Buzzer Alarm

OregonASK

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students create a circuit that causes an alarm to trigger. In addition, they learn about electrical currents and circuits!

Discover Activity

Building a Buzzer AlarmSTEM, Nature and Wildlife

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

Life-size Animal Posters

STEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades K - 5

Life-size Animal Posters

Go2Science

K - 5

50 Minutes

As they travel through new areas of the rainforest, Beth and Curtis share many of the animal species they see. Using their observations of rainforest animals, students will apply what they see by arranging and assembling life-size animal posters. Make just one or do them all. It’s up to you!

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Life-size Animal PostersSTEM, Nature and Wildlife

50 Minutes•Grades K - 5

Mexico and Central America Trading Cards

History and Society, Literacy

Grades 6 - 8

Mexico and Central America Trading Cards

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students learn about the geography and cultures of Mexico and Central America. After doing some initial research, they create trading cards to represent the 8 different countries and discuss what they’ve learned about this region of the world.

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Mexico and Central America Trading CardsHistory and Society, Literacy

45 Minutes•Grades 6 - 8

S.INQ Invisible Forces Magnetic Strength

STEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades K - 5

S.INQ Invisible Forces Magnetic Strength

OregonASK

K - 5

30 Minutes

In this lesson, students connect paper clips, one at time to test the strength of their magnet. They will test two different magnets to see which can hold more, and then try to make their magnetic force stronger.

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S.INQ Invisible Forces Magnetic StrengthSTEM, Nature and Wildlife

30 Minutes•Grades K - 5

College Major Report

Career and Future Readiness, History and Society

Grades 9 - 12

College Major Report

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students research and report on a wide variety of college majors by identifying details of subject(s) studied for the major, the requirements for a degree, and the jobs or opportunities that the major may support. Students then share and discuss their findings with the group.

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College Major ReportCareer and Future Readiness, History and Society

45 Minutes•Grades 9 - 12

S.INQ Up Space Systems Part 1

STEM, Nature and Wildlife

Grades 6 - 8

S.INQ Up Space Systems Part 1

OregonASK

6 - 8

1 Hour

Students create a diagram of the solar system to give a good idea of space in their minds. Students will see a visual representation of space is really like. This activity is a good foundation for the students to learn about the basics of science in space.

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S.INQ Up Space Systems Part 1STEM, Nature and Wildlife

1 Hour•Grades 6 - 8

Break the Box

Arts, Digital Media and Communications

Grades 3 - 8

Break the Box

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

2 Hours

Students learn basic stick notation and how to organize the notation into bars. They layer created patterns to alter the depth and complexity of the sound.

Discover Activity

Break the BoxArts, Digital Media and Communications

2 Hours•Grades 3 - 8