All Activities

Design Your Own Money (Grades K-2)

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Stories and Perspectives

Design Your Own Money (Grades K-2)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children make their own models of money in order to build an understanding of money and its value.

Discover Activity

What Should I Feed My New Dog?

The Natural World, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

What Should I Feed My New Dog?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

In today’s activity, students analyze labels of different brands of dog food to determine the best food for a new dog. They compare and evaluate the ingredients and claims found on the labels, and they research the benefits of the main ingredients and the validity. Then students present their findings and conclusions to the group.

Discover Activity

Playing Innovator Trading Cards (6-12)

Leadership and Teamwork, We The People

Playing Innovator Trading Cards (6-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 12

1 Hour

In this culminating activity, learners use their completed Innovator Trading Cards to solve community-based challenges. Each challenge requires a balanced team of innovators, with one innovator from each theme. Learners must justify their team choices and explain how different kinds of contributions work together to address complex problems.

This is the second of two activities in the Innovator Trading Card Collection:

Activity 1 focuses on the theme of the week, learning about the innovators and their influence, and designing the innovator trading cards.
Activity 2 focuses on facilitating the associated game to reinforce learning.

Discover Activity

What Is Mindfulness?

Whole Body, Whole Self, Belonging and Community

What Is Mindfulness?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

People often walk along the street without really noticing what is around them. With so many of us using electronic devices around the clock, “mindlessness” is on the rise! This activity shows students how an active, engaged mindset, or mindfulness, can affect their daily experiences.

Discover Activity

Amazing Bodies! 1: Prototype Brainstorm

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Future Ready: Learning and Earning

Amazing Bodies! 1: Prototype Brainstorm

OregonASK

6 - 8

30 Minutes

Students brainstorm creative innovations to improve people's lives.

This activity is Part 1 of 6 in the Amazing Bodies! series, with activities designed to build upon each another:

Amazing Bodies! 1: Prototype Brainstorm

Amazing Bodies! 2: Prototype Selection

Amazing Bodies! 3: Prototype Build

Amazing Bodies! 4: Prototype Test & Modify

Amazing Bodies! 5: Prototype Naming

Amazing Bodies! 6: Prototype Presentations

Discover Activity

The Big Easy: Days 14-16 Lesson

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

The Big Easy: Days 14-16 Lesson

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Welcome to Lesson 14-16 of Jazz at Lincoln Center's module, "The Big Easy"! Ignite imagination as students plan symbolic parties, designing dances and decorations that reflect stories, ideas, and emotions. Foster creativity and collaboration among students, all while having fun!

Discover Activity

Olympic Games (Grades 9-12)

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Olympic Games (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

In this activity, students learn and play a series of Olympic games. Then they vote on their favorite game. This activity builds listening and cooperative learning skills. It also promotes physical fitness.

Discover Activity

NBA Math Hoops Lesson 8: Maximizing Shot Options

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Stories and Perspectives

NBA Math Hoops Lesson 8: Maximizing Shot Options

Learn Fresh

3 - 8

30 Minutes

In this activity, students learn the importance of division and rounding in the context of NBA Math Hoops, where certain division results can unlock valuable shot options. Students then work in teams, ensuring accuracy through collaboration. This activity aims to reinforce division and rounding skills while highlighting their strategic application in the game.

Discover Activity

City Hopper U.S.A.

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

City Hopper U.S.A.

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students act as virtual tour guides for an American city. They research the city using print and digital resources and create a slideshow to take the audience on a virtual tour, highlighting the area's geography, climate, landmarks, history, and culture.

Discover Activity

The Big Easy: Day 4 Lesson

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

The Big Easy: Day 4 Lesson

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Welcome to Lesson 4 of Jazz at Lincoln Center's module, "The Big Easy"! Explore the art of deduction as students utilize background knowledge and research to decipher symbolism in artwork, uncovering the inspiration behind illustrations.

Discover Activity

Sketching for Observation Exercises

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Sketching for Observation Exercises

California Academy of Sciences

K - 12

3 Hours

Scientific sketching isn’t about making a pretty picture! It’s about looking at something so closely you notice something new. These exercises help students practice sketching for observation, data collection, and analysis during a science investigation.

Discover Activity

Rules of Discussion (Grades 3-5)

Belonging and Community, Stories and Perspectives

Rules of Discussion (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students develop rules for discussions to help them be thoughtful participants within a discussion.

Discover Activity

World War II (Grades 3-5)

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

World War II (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students work together to learn about key people, battles, and events of World War II. Teams create a newsreel and present what they have learned to the whole group. This activity builds research and cooperative learning skills, while also developing speaking and listening skills.

Discover Activity

State Report

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

State Report

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students work in small groups to learn about a state and then create a presentation to give in front of the group.

Discover Activity

Draw a Scientist

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Draw a Scientist

California Academy of Sciences

K - 12

45 Minutes

Students draw their idea of "a scientist doing science." This exercise surfaces students' prior understandings of the nature of science and the demographics of scientists, serving as a launching point for discovering that students, in fact, can be scientists.

Discover Activity

Wacky Relay Race!

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Wacky Relay Race!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 8

45 Minutes

In this activity, students design and participate in a "wacky" relay race.

Discover Activity

My Watershed

The Natural World, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

My Watershed

National Wildlife Federation

3 - 8

50 Minutes

A watershed is an area of land that drains all the streams, rainfall, and snowmelt to a common outlet such as the outflow of a reservoir, mouth of a bay, or ocean and consists of surface water, such as lakes, streams, reservoirs, and wetlands and all underlying groundwater. The word “watershed” is sometimes used interchangeably with drainage basin or catchment. Larger watersheds contain many smaller watersheds. Watersheds are critical because the water flowing over the land impacts habitat, and wildlife health supports various recreational activities and provides communities with drinking water.

Discover Activity

Freedom of the Press Blog Entry

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Freedom of the Press Blog Entry

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students explore protections for and limits on the freedom of the press in the United States. In teams, they watch a video summary on the history of the freedom of the press and read a news article about high school students’ efforts to protect their “right to write.” They use what they learn to prepare a team blog entry analyzing the freedom of the press.

Discover Activity

Model a Computer Program

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Digital Voices

Model a Computer Program

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

A computer will follow coded instructions nearly instantly-and with no mistakes! If an error occurs, the fault is with the code, or software, and not the computer circuitry. In this activity, students will model the instructions, variables, and calculations of a computer program, 1 line of code after another. The skills they practice will be useful for writing programs of their own, as well as debugging their programs. The activity also demonstrates the remarkable speed and accuracy at which computers complete tasks.

Discover Activity

How to Look at Monuments

Arts in Action, We The People

How to Look at Monuments

ArtsConnection

9 - 12

1 Hour 30 Minutes

Guide young people in observing, describing, and analyzing local or global monuments. Through multimedia research, writing, and discussion, respond to the questions: Who's history do they include and who do they exclude? Which monuments would you take down and what new monuments would you put up?

Monuments to individuals, historical events, or movements have been created throughout time and around the world, in cities and towns big and small. Sometimes we pass them by without even knowing who or what they depict, and other times they elicit anger, offense, and a call to remove them. This activity asks teens to weigh in on the global debate around how monuments reflect our society and what should be done when they no longer represent our communities.

Discover Activity

Tower of Power

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

Tower of Power

Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship

6 - 12

1 Hour 40 Minutes

As an engaging way to introduce students to NFTE’s entrepreneurial mindset domains, students will either complete an interactive digital module or engage in a team building activity that asks them to create the tallest possible tower using limited resources.

This lesson plan is written around the completion of a hands-on activity, but you can replace or supplement this activity with a couple of digital interactives. See the Modifications section at the end of this lesson plan for more details.

Discover Activity

Singing and Rhythm

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Singing and Rhythm

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Familiar and favorite songs, such as "Row Row Row Your Boat" and "Rain Rain Go Away," are turned into rhythm and movement activities. Children clap and count the rhythm of syllables, and then stomp and march to the music.

Discover Activity

Functional Fitness Week 2: Day 3

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Functional Fitness Week 2: Day 3

Active Kids and Minds

K - 8

45 Minutes

Finish week 2 with the skill of the week: Running. In this activity, students polish their stamina and speed with team sprints and game of Junkyard. Then, they challenge their fruit-focused learning in a summative game.

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.

Discover Activity

Create and Perform a Scene from a Book (Grades K-2)

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Create and Perform a Scene from a Book (Grades K-2)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children choose a meaningful and memorable scene from a favorite story and then work together to dramatize it. This activity introduces young children to dramatic storytelling.

Discover Activity

Southern States Pen Pals

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Southern States Pen Pals

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students work in small groups to research the southern region of the United States and then write each other "pen pal" letters based on their research.

Discover Activity

Make a Straw Rocket

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Make a Straw Rocket

NASA

3 - 8

30 Minutes

Create a paper rocket that can be launched from a soda straw – then, modify the design to make the rocket fly farther!

Discover Activity

EMI Pre-Survey Analysis

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

EMI Pre-Survey Analysis

Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship

6 - 12

50 Minutes

Students take the Pre-EMI survey to get a report of the current status of their own developing entrepreneurial mindset.

Note that the survey is designed to be completed by most students in less than one instructional period. However, depending on the reading levels and abilities of your students, it may take longer for many students. Adjust the discussion time appropriately to match the amount of time your students will need to complete the survey.

Discover Activity

Planning a 2-Person Presentation

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Planning a 2-Person Presentation

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students learn steps to follow when planning a presentation, and then they practice those steps with a partner. This activity builds organizational skills, as well as skills in collaboration, speaking, and listening.

Discover Activity

Functional Fitness Week 6: Day 2

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Functional Fitness Week 6: Day 2

Active Kids and Minds

K - 8

40 Minutes

Continue building week 6 skill of the week: Squats. In this activity, students participate in strength and endurance relays, and a classic game of Capture the Flag. Then, they learn to identify the types of dairy products.

Discover Activity

Functional Fitness Week 11: Day 1

Whole Body, Whole Self, Leadership and Teamwork

Functional Fitness Week 11: Day 1

Active Kids and Minds

K - 8

40 Minutes

In this activity, students revisit measuring their physical abilities by participating in hundred-meter runs. Then, they reinforce prior learning by brainstorming healthy breakfast ideas.

Discover Activity

Basics of Presenting (Grades K-2)

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Basics of Presenting (Grades K-2)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

In this activity, children learn and practice useful rules for public speaking.

Discover Activity

Modeling an Elbow

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Modeling an Elbow

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

In this activity, students use rubber bands and a foam board to construct a working model of an elbow joint. By experimenting with the model, students observe that muscles work in pairs to bend joints and move body parts. Flexing and extending the arm at the elbow joint is one example.

Discover Activity

What is Causing the Current Climate Change? - Part 2

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

What is Causing the Current Climate Change? - Part 2

The Nature Conservancy

9 - 12

1 Hour

Students conduct a short literature review to determine the leading cause of the current climate change.

Discover Activity

Who Is Marie Curie?

Stories and Perspectives, We The People

Who Is Marie Curie?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children learn about the famous scientist Marie Curie. They read a biography of Curie’s life and use what they have learned to write an acrostic poem about her.

Discover Activity

Startup Survival

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

Startup Survival

Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship

6 - 12

1 Hour 40 Minutes

As an engaging way to introduce students to NFTE’s entrepreneurial mindset domains, students will either complete an interactive digital module or attempt to select the most important startup tools. Students finish the module by creating an EM Personal Growth Plan.

Discover Activity

Gallery Walk

Arts in Action, Leadership and Teamwork

Gallery Walk

After-School All-Stars

6 - 12

30 Minutes

This teaching technique actively engages students in collaboration and creative problem-solving as they walk throughout a room together in small groups, sharing ideas and discussing questions while responding to images or texts.

Discover Activity

Fact-checking for Beginners (Student Reporting Labs)

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Fact-checking for Beginners (Student Reporting Labs)

PBS

6 - 12

Students will learn the basics of fact-checking a news story, and the difference between primary and secondary sources.

This is activity 13 of 16 in the PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs Module. Visit the Module to learn more before getting started.

Discover Activity

Global Intervention in the First Gulf War

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Global Intervention in the First Gulf War

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students read both primary and secondary source articles to explore the reasons for U.S. participation in the First Gulf War. They begin by considering a personal dilemma over conflict and discuss whether or not they think U.S. participation in the war was justified.

Discover Activity

Cell City

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Cell City

OregonASK

6 - 12

45 Minutes

Students learn about cells, including their functions in the body, by building models for themselves!

Discover Activity

Super Secret Handshake Society (Team Building) Game

Belonging and Community, Leadership and Teamwork

Super Secret Handshake Society (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

K - 12

15 Minutes

Meet new friends while creating secret, custom handshakes that are guaranteed to impress an audience!

Discover Activity

20 Questions (Grades 3-5)

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Stories and Perspectives

20 Questions (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students play a version of the popular game 20 Questions. First, students pair off, with 1 student thinking of something from a predetermined category while the other asks their partner up to 20 questions to determine what it is. Finally, students reconvene as a whole group for discussion.

Discover Activity

What is an Entrepreneur?

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

What is an Entrepreneur?

VentureLab

K - 2

25 Minutes

Entrepreneurship isn't just about starting companies; it's a skill set and way of thinking. In this activity, students will watch a video from Kid President on what it takes to be an inventor to get them thinking about and discussing what an entrepreneur is. Then, students will make a poster representing themselves as entrepreneurs to start cultivating the mindset and thinking that they, too, are entrepreneurs.

This activity was designed as Part 1 of 5 in a series created by VentureLab. Check out the "Intro to Entrepreneurship" lesson to see more.

Discover Activity

Make a Hovercraft

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Make a Hovercraft

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students use simple materials to build a working hovercraft. This activity builds an understanding of engineering principles as well as physics concepts related to friction and gravity.

Discover Activity

Launcher (Team Building) Game

Leadership and Teamwork, Belonging and Community

Launcher (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

6 - 12

30 Minutes

Using a water balloon launcher, slingshot large, foam dice across a field for your teammates to catch!

Discover Activity

A Good Hook (Grades 3-5)

Stories and Perspectives, Digital Voices

A Good Hook (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

^{In pairs or groups, students practice writing and delivering “hooks” or engaging introductions to presentations.}

Discover Activity

Quiet on Set

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Quiet on Set

PBS

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Quiet on Set! It’s time to record the interviews.

This is lesson 35 of PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs' second module, Building a News Hour.

Discover Activity

Stations of the Yamas and Niyamas of Yoga Philosophy

Whole Body, Whole Self, Belonging and Community

Stations of the Yamas and Niyamas of Yoga Philosophy

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students learn about and discuss situations in which the first two limbs of yoga philosophy, the yamas and the niyamas (or restraints and observances), can be useful in daily life.

Discover Activity

Hidden Information: Mapping Our Digital Footprint

Digital Voices, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

Hidden Information: Mapping Our Digital Footprint

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

In this activity, students learn about the digital footprint they create when they access the internet. They begin by looking at a sample digital footprint and considering how our online presence leaves impressions, or traces, just like our physical presence does. They create lists of places they have been online and use those lists to illustrate their own digital footprints. Students analyze the footprints to assess what kinds of information they have made public and consider how that information is permanent and accessible. Finally, students visit each other’s footprints to see how their digital interactions connect them.

Discover Activity

Making Comics Part 6: Details and Description

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Making Comics Part 6: Details and Description

OregonASK

3 - 12

1 Hour

In comics, there are often several artists who make one thing, a story writer, a penciler, an inker, and a colorist too! Each one does a part of the finished whole! Students look at their penciled stories and start to get them ready to ink!

This is part 6 of 7 in a series. Provide context by first facilitating Making Comics Parts 1-5, and then afterward, Making Comics Part 7: Details and Description.

Discover Activity

Pitch Yourself

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

Pitch Yourself

Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship

6 - 12

50 Minutes

As an engaging way to start NFTE’s Entrepreneurship 1 course, students will learn about what it means to be an entrepreneur and then create 30-second pitches about themselves to pitch themselves as potential entrepreneurs to their classmates.

Discover Activity

S.INQ Up Human Impact

The Natural World, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

S.INQ Up Human Impact

OregonASK

6 - 8

30 Minutes

Students learn about human impact on our climate through the distribution of greenhouse gases.

Discover Activity

What Rights Do People Have? (Grade 3-5)

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

What Rights Do People Have? (Grade 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students explore and discuss how all people are entitled to basic rights, such as living in peace, access to food and water, and living without fear.

Discover Activity

Animal ABCs

Stories and Perspectives, The Natural World

Animal ABCs

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

ABC picture books are some of the first books we are exposed to when we are young. In this activity, children will have the opportunity to make 1 of their own. The children will brainstorm animals for each letter of the alphabet, then work together to create a beautifully illustrated animal ABC book.

Discover Activity

Telling Fact From Opinion

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Telling Fact From Opinion

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Telling apart fact from opinion is a vital skill in all kinds of reading, as well as in media literacy. In this activity, students practice identifying facts and opinions in an online article. They learn the clues and hints that show how a statement might appear to be factual but is actually the opinion of its author.

Discover Activity

Spelling Survivor

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Spelling Survivor

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Spelling Survivor is a spelling bee with a twist. In this spelling bee students can use a lifeline to get a friend’s help and may be lucky and get a free pass on their round. Students will participate in a spelling bee to see who will be the last one standing, or the spelling survivor.

Discover Activity

How Can I Successfully Complete My College Major? (Grades 6-8)

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Belonging and Community

How Can I Successfully Complete My College Major? (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students research college majors by interviewing a partner and exploring how their skill sets and traits connect to a variety of college majors.

Discover Activity

Creating Setting (Grades 9-12)

Stories and Perspectives, Future Ready: Learning and Earning

Creating Setting (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

In this activity, students create a setting and characters and then write a story or scene with those elements. First, they create a description of a room. Then, they switch descriptions with another student, creating characters who interact in that room. Finally, students reconvene as a whole group to read and discuss their work.

Discover Activity

Video Games of Past and Present

Digital Voices, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

Video Games of Past and Present

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students play classic video games and compare them with today's video games.

Discover Activity

The Cold Call

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

The Cold Call

PBS

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Dialing into the world of news production! In this lesson, students explore a producer's critical role in securing interviews. They’ll learn the art of the "cold call" and craft scripts for persuasive communication.

This is lesson 8 in “Building a News Hour,” the second module from PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs’ module series.

Discover Activity

What Are the Costs of Starting a Business?

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

What Are the Costs of Starting a Business?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Starting a business has proven to be a successful career option for many people, but many new businesses fail because they are poorly funded. In this activity, students experience the research, planning, and decision-making involved in launching and funding a new business.

Discover Activity

Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Career Exploration Presentation

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Career Exploration Presentation

After-School All-Stars

6 - 8

40 Minutes

This group presentation activity teaches students about Advanced Manufacturing and Automation career diversity, skills, educational requirements, average salaries, and how these jobs are important to and impact our everyday lives.

Discover Activity

Promotional Writing and “Advertorials”

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Promotional Writing and “Advertorials”

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Advertisers have developed a variety of techniques to reach potential customers, some of which are unrecognized by even the most sophisticated media users. In this activity, students compare promotional writing to the journalism it is intended to mimic. They also practice writing in this style.

Discover Activity

Twirl in the Wind

Arts in Action, Digital Voices

Twirl in the Wind

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Students build a Kinetic Sculpture, or a sculpture that moves in response to air, light, or sound.

Discover Activity

Picture This

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Picture This

Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship

6 - 12

1 Hour 40 Minutes

As an engaging way to introduce students to NFTE’s entrepreneurial mindset domains, students will either complete an interactive digital module or engage in a challenge to draw and recreate objects through the cues given to them by their partner.

Discover Activity

Virtual Tour of the Midwest

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Virtual Tour of the Midwest

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students research the states in the Midwest United States, and then create posters and conduct a virtual tour based on what they learned.

Discover Activity

S.INQ Invisible Forces Magnetic Challenge

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

S.INQ Invisible Forces Magnetic Challenge

OregonASK

K - 5

30 Minutes

In this lesson, students move simple objects through a maze using a magnet, experimenting with various metal materials and reflecting on what worked and what didn't.

Discover Activity

Create Hanging Door/Wall Signs

Belonging and Community, Arts in Action

Create Hanging Door/Wall Signs

Rediscover Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

In this activity, students will create hanging door signs based on a traffic light. What are signs made for? What purpose do they serve?

This project was inspired by The Unstoppable Garrett Morgan by Joan DiCicco, and illustrated by Ebony Glenn. A tale of heroism and inventiveness, Garrett Morgan invented the Safety Hood that firefighters and wartime heroes adapted for use to this day. And if you rode in the car lately, you will have benefitted from his invention that created our modern-day traffic light. In this activity guide, we are taking inspiration from the traffic light to create signs that can indicate a student’s mood or set boundaries.

Discover Activity

Olympic Games (Grades 3-5)

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Olympic Games (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students learn and play a series of Olympic games, building their skills in listening and cooperation along the way.

Discover Activity

Model the Water Cycle

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Model the Water Cycle

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Ocean water is very salty, so why does fresh water fall on land? In this activity, students will answer this question by investigating a sealed cup of tinted water. The sealed cup acts as a simple model of Earth’s water supply and the water cycle.

Discover Activity

Freedom of Speech 101

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Freedom of Speech 101

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students explore what freedom of speech means in the United States, including the right to speak one’s ideas, feelings, beliefs, and opinions, and the legal protections and limits of free speech. Students work together to create a free speech informational brochure and then exercise their freedom of speech by articulating an opinion about the U.S. government.

Discover Activity

Careers That Keep You Moving

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, We The People

Careers That Keep You Moving

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

What if you had a career that required you to travel a large part of the year? Students work in groups to research a career that requires travel and present their career to others during a simulated job fair.

Discover Activity

How Does That Lemonade Get to My House?

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, We The People

How Does That Lemonade Get to My House?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students explore the supply chain that brings lemonade to their table. Then, thy work together to create a booklet that describes the process.

Discover Activity

Cup Stacking Challenge

Belonging and Community, Leadership and Teamwork

Cup Stacking Challenge

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children will be challenged to stack cups in a variety of ways without using their hands. Instead, they will use strings attached to a rubber band. Collaboration required!

Discover Activity

“Our Right to Assemble” Posters

We The People, Belonging and Community

“Our Right to Assemble” Posters

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students explore what the freedom of assembly means in the United States. Then, students split into teams to read excerpts from articles about the First Amendment and prepare posters entitled “Our Right to Assemble”, illustrating examples of protected assembly. Finally, they discuss and clarify what peaceably assemble means and what responsibilities people have when exercising their rights.

Discover Activity

Paper Sculptures (Grades 9-12)

Arts in Action, Belonging and Community

Paper Sculptures (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students create paper sculptures that represent themselves and their feelings about social issues that are important to them. As they work, they will research and learn different ways to manipulate paper and discuss how colors and shapes impact feelings and represent people.

Discover Activity

Design Your Own Money (Grades K-2)

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Stories and Perspectives

Design Your Own Money (Grades K-2)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children make their own models of money in order to build an understanding of money and its value.

Discover Activity

What Should I Feed My New Dog?

The Natural World, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

What Should I Feed My New Dog?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Playing Innovator Trading Cards (6-12)

Leadership and Teamwork, We The People

Playing Innovator Trading Cards (6-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 12

1 Hour

This is the second of two activities in the Innovator Trading Card Collection:

Activity 1 focuses on the theme of the week, learning about the innovators and their influence, and designing the innovator trading cards.
Activity 2 focuses on facilitating the associated game to reinforce learning.

Discover Activity

What Is Mindfulness?

Whole Body, Whole Self, Belonging and Community

What Is Mindfulness?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Amazing Bodies! 1: Prototype Brainstorm

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Future Ready: Learning and Earning

Amazing Bodies! 1: Prototype Brainstorm

OregonASK

6 - 8

30 Minutes

Students brainstorm creative innovations to improve people's lives.

This activity is Part 1 of 6 in the Amazing Bodies! series, with activities designed to build upon each another:

Amazing Bodies! 1: Prototype Brainstorm

Amazing Bodies! 2: Prototype Selection

Amazing Bodies! 3: Prototype Build

Amazing Bodies! 4: Prototype Test & Modify

Amazing Bodies! 5: Prototype Naming

Amazing Bodies! 6: Prototype Presentations

Discover Activity

The Big Easy: Days 14-16 Lesson

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

The Big Easy: Days 14-16 Lesson

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Discover Activity

Olympic Games (Grades 9-12)

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Olympic Games (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

NBA Math Hoops Lesson 8: Maximizing Shot Options

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Stories and Perspectives

NBA Math Hoops Lesson 8: Maximizing Shot Options

Learn Fresh

3 - 8

30 Minutes

Discover Activity

City Hopper U.S.A.

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

City Hopper U.S.A.

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

The Big Easy: Day 4 Lesson

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

The Big Easy: Day 4 Lesson

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Discover Activity

Sketching for Observation Exercises

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Sketching for Observation Exercises

California Academy of Sciences

K - 12

3 Hours

Discover Activity

Rules of Discussion (Grades 3-5)

Belonging and Community, Stories and Perspectives

Rules of Discussion (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students develop rules for discussions to help them be thoughtful participants within a discussion.

Discover Activity

World War II (Grades 3-5)

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

World War II (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

State Report

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

State Report

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students work in small groups to learn about a state and then create a presentation to give in front of the group.

Discover Activity

Draw a Scientist

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Draw a Scientist

California Academy of Sciences

K - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Wacky Relay Race!

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Wacky Relay Race!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 8

45 Minutes

In this activity, students design and participate in a "wacky" relay race.

Discover Activity

My Watershed

The Natural World, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

My Watershed

National Wildlife Federation

3 - 8

50 Minutes

Discover Activity

Freedom of the Press Blog Entry

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Freedom of the Press Blog Entry

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Model a Computer Program

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Digital Voices

Model a Computer Program

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

How to Look at Monuments

Arts in Action, We The People

How to Look at Monuments

ArtsConnection

9 - 12

1 Hour 30 Minutes

Discover Activity

Tower of Power

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

Tower of Power

Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship

6 - 12

1 Hour 40 Minutes

Discover Activity

Singing and Rhythm

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Singing and Rhythm

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Functional Fitness Week 2: Day 3

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Functional Fitness Week 2: Day 3

Active Kids and Minds

K - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Create and Perform a Scene from a Book (Grades K-2)

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Create and Perform a Scene from a Book (Grades K-2)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children choose a meaningful and memorable scene from a favorite story and then work together to dramatize it. This activity introduces young children to dramatic storytelling.

Discover Activity

Southern States Pen Pals

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Southern States Pen Pals

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students work in small groups to research the southern region of the United States and then write each other "pen pal" letters based on their research.

Discover Activity

Make a Straw Rocket

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Make a Straw Rocket

NASA

3 - 8

30 Minutes

Create a paper rocket that can be launched from a soda straw – then, modify the design to make the rocket fly farther!

Discover Activity

EMI Pre-Survey Analysis

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

EMI Pre-Survey Analysis

Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship

6 - 12

50 Minutes

Students take the Pre-EMI survey to get a report of the current status of their own developing entrepreneurial mindset.

Discover Activity

Planning a 2-Person Presentation

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Planning a 2-Person Presentation

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Functional Fitness Week 6: Day 2

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Functional Fitness Week 6: Day 2

Active Kids and Minds

K - 8

40 Minutes

Discover Activity

Functional Fitness Week 11: Day 1

Whole Body, Whole Self, Leadership and Teamwork

Functional Fitness Week 11: Day 1

Active Kids and Minds

K - 8

40 Minutes

In this activity, students revisit measuring their physical abilities by participating in hundred-meter runs. Then, they reinforce prior learning by brainstorming healthy breakfast ideas.

Discover Activity

Basics of Presenting (Grades K-2)

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Basics of Presenting (Grades K-2)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

In this activity, children learn and practice useful rules for public speaking.

Discover Activity

Modeling an Elbow

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Modeling an Elbow

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

What is Causing the Current Climate Change? - Part 2

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

What is Causing the Current Climate Change? - Part 2

The Nature Conservancy

9 - 12

1 Hour

Students conduct a short literature review to determine the leading cause of the current climate change.

Discover Activity

Who Is Marie Curie?

Stories and Perspectives, We The People

Who Is Marie Curie?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children learn about the famous scientist Marie Curie. They read a biography of Curie’s life and use what they have learned to write an acrostic poem about her.

Discover Activity

Startup Survival

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

Startup Survival

Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship

6 - 12

1 Hour 40 Minutes

Discover Activity

Gallery Walk

Arts in Action, Leadership and Teamwork

Gallery Walk

After-School All-Stars

6 - 12

30 Minutes

Discover Activity

Fact-checking for Beginners (Student Reporting Labs)

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Fact-checking for Beginners (Student Reporting Labs)

PBS

6 - 12

Students will learn the basics of fact-checking a news story, and the difference between primary and secondary sources.

This is activity 13 of 16 in the PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs Module. Visit the Module to learn more before getting started.

Discover Activity

Global Intervention in the First Gulf War

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Global Intervention in the First Gulf War

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Cell City

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Cell City

OregonASK

6 - 12

45 Minutes

Students learn about cells, including their functions in the body, by building models for themselves!

Discover Activity

Super Secret Handshake Society (Team Building) Game

Belonging and Community, Leadership and Teamwork

Super Secret Handshake Society (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

K - 12

15 Minutes

Meet new friends while creating secret, custom handshakes that are guaranteed to impress an audience!

Discover Activity

20 Questions (Grades 3-5)

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Stories and Perspectives

20 Questions (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

What is an Entrepreneur?

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

What is an Entrepreneur?

VentureLab

K - 2

25 Minutes

This activity was designed as Part 1 of 5 in a series created by VentureLab. Check out the "Intro to Entrepreneurship" lesson to see more.

Discover Activity

Make a Hovercraft

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Make a Hovercraft

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Launcher (Team Building) Game

Leadership and Teamwork, Belonging and Community

Launcher (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

6 - 12

30 Minutes

Using a water balloon launcher, slingshot large, foam dice across a field for your teammates to catch!

Discover Activity

A Good Hook (Grades 3-5)

Stories and Perspectives, Digital Voices

A Good Hook (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

^{In pairs or groups, students practice writing and delivering “hooks” or engaging introductions to presentations.}

Discover Activity

Quiet on Set

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Quiet on Set

PBS

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Quiet on Set! It’s time to record the interviews.

This is lesson 35 of PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs' second module, Building a News Hour.

Discover Activity

Stations of the Yamas and Niyamas of Yoga Philosophy

Whole Body, Whole Self, Belonging and Community

Stations of the Yamas and Niyamas of Yoga Philosophy

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students learn about and discuss situations in which the first two limbs of yoga philosophy, the yamas and the niyamas (or restraints and observances), can be useful in daily life.

Discover Activity

Hidden Information: Mapping Our Digital Footprint

Digital Voices, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

Hidden Information: Mapping Our Digital Footprint

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Making Comics Part 6: Details and Description

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Making Comics Part 6: Details and Description

OregonASK

3 - 12

1 Hour

This is part 6 of 7 in a series. Provide context by first facilitating Making Comics Parts 1-5, and then afterward, Making Comics Part 7: Details and Description.

Discover Activity

Pitch Yourself

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

Pitch Yourself

Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship

6 - 12

50 Minutes

Discover Activity

S.INQ Up Human Impact

The Natural World, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

S.INQ Up Human Impact

OregonASK

6 - 8

30 Minutes

Students learn about human impact on our climate through the distribution of greenhouse gases.

Discover Activity

What Rights Do People Have? (Grade 3-5)

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

What Rights Do People Have? (Grade 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students explore and discuss how all people are entitled to basic rights, such as living in peace, access to food and water, and living without fear.

Discover Activity

Animal ABCs

Stories and Perspectives, The Natural World

Animal ABCs

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Telling Fact From Opinion

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Telling Fact From Opinion

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Spelling Survivor

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Spelling Survivor

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

How Can I Successfully Complete My College Major? (Grades 6-8)

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Belonging and Community

How Can I Successfully Complete My College Major? (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students research college majors by interviewing a partner and exploring how their skill sets and traits connect to a variety of college majors.

Discover Activity

Creating Setting (Grades 9-12)

Stories and Perspectives, Future Ready: Learning and Earning

Creating Setting (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Video Games of Past and Present

Digital Voices, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

Video Games of Past and Present

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students play classic video games and compare them with today's video games.

Discover Activity

The Cold Call

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

The Cold Call

PBS

3 - 5

45 Minutes

This is lesson 8 in “Building a News Hour,” the second module from PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs’ module series.

Discover Activity

What Are the Costs of Starting a Business?

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

What Are the Costs of Starting a Business?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Career Exploration Presentation

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

Advanced Manufacturing and Automation Career Exploration Presentation

After-School All-Stars

6 - 8

40 Minutes

Discover Activity

Promotional Writing and “Advertorials”

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Promotional Writing and “Advertorials”

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Twirl in the Wind

Arts in Action, Digital Voices

Twirl in the Wind

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Students build a Kinetic Sculpture, or a sculpture that moves in response to air, light, or sound.

Discover Activity

Picture This

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Picture This

Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship

6 - 12

1 Hour 40 Minutes

Discover Activity

Virtual Tour of the Midwest

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Virtual Tour of the Midwest

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students research the states in the Midwest United States, and then create posters and conduct a virtual tour based on what they learned.

Discover Activity

S.INQ Invisible Forces Magnetic Challenge

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

S.INQ Invisible Forces Magnetic Challenge

OregonASK

K - 5

30 Minutes

In this lesson, students move simple objects through a maze using a magnet, experimenting with various metal materials and reflecting on what worked and what didn't.

Discover Activity

Create Hanging Door/Wall Signs

Belonging and Community, Arts in Action

Create Hanging Door/Wall Signs

Rediscover Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

In this activity, students will create hanging door signs based on a traffic light. What are signs made for? What purpose do they serve?

Discover Activity

Olympic Games (Grades 3-5)

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Olympic Games (Grades 3-5)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this activity, students learn and play a series of Olympic games, building their skills in listening and cooperation along the way.

Discover Activity

Model the Water Cycle

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, The Natural World

Model the Water Cycle

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Freedom of Speech 101

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Freedom of Speech 101

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Careers That Keep You Moving

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, We The People

Careers That Keep You Moving

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

How Does That Lemonade Get to My House?

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, We The People

How Does That Lemonade Get to My House?

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students explore the supply chain that brings lemonade to their table. Then, thy work together to create a booklet that describes the process.

Discover Activity

Cup Stacking Challenge

Belonging and Community, Leadership and Teamwork

Cup Stacking Challenge

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children will be challenged to stack cups in a variety of ways without using their hands. Instead, they will use strings attached to a rubber band. Collaboration required!

Discover Activity

“Our Right to Assemble” Posters

We The People, Belonging and Community

“Our Right to Assemble” Posters

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Paper Sculptures (Grades 9-12)

Arts in Action, Belonging and Community

Paper Sculptures (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.