All Activities

Observing Nature

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

Observing Nature

National Wildlife Federation

K - 8

50 Minutes

Observation is the cornerstone of the inquiry process. It begins an investigation and continues throughout it. When making observations, children are learning to gather evidence, organize their ideas, and propose explanations about the world around them. By challenging children to use their five senses to make detailed observations, teachers are encouraging students to collect and organize information about natural phenomena that they naturally find compelling. ¹

While touch and taste help round out the five senses, it’s crucial children do not touch or taste anything that could cause harm, such as poison ivy or Virginia creeper berries.

¹https://www.nsta.org/publications/news/story.aspx?id=52414

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Clay Slab Construction Faces

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Clay Slab Construction Faces

OregonASK

K - 8

1 Hour

Students sculpt clay faces using a simple slab technique and air-dry clay.

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We Can Help the Planet!

The Natural World, Arts in Action

We Can Help the Planet!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children learn about ways they can help the planet by listening to a teacher read a picture book on the subject, then creating posters to illustrate what they learned.

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Delivering a Persuasive Argument (Grades 9-12)

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Delivering a Persuasive Argument (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students work in pairs to create a short, persuasive piece, which they share with the whole group. This activity provides practice in persuasion, logic, and teambuilding and builds speaking and listening skills.

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Heavy Lifting

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

Heavy Lifting

NASA

3 - 8

45 Minutes

Students construct balloon-powered rockets to launch the greatest payload possible to the classroom ceiling.

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Shape Hunt

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

Shape Hunt

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children in primary grades are familiar with basic geometric shapes, such as circles, squares, and rectangles. However, they may not recognize that these shapes are ideal constructions that may not be duplicated perfectly in the world around them. In this activity, children identify familiar shapes that are hiding in plain sight in the environment and accept that irregular shapes are generally more common.

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What Is History, and Why Does It Matter?

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

What Is History, and Why Does It Matter?

Pulitzer Center

K - 8

1 Hour 15 Minutes

In this activity, students define history and explore its significance. Students will analyze a short text, participate in group discussions, and develop personal and collective understandings of the importance of history. Then, students will reflect on their personal histories to create a Roots and Wings mural that charts where they come from and where they are going.

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Invasive Species Management Proposal

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

Invasive Species Management Proposal

City Parks Foundation

6 - 8

1 Hour

Using research and data from the previous lessons, students will put together a proposal for how to manage invasive species in their region. This lesson will strengthen their team building, research, and presentation skills all which are necessary to foster community activism towards a more environmentally conscious future.

This is activity 4 of 5 in the "Invasive Species" module from City Parks Foundation.

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Elevator Pitch Practice: Scripted Pitch

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

Elevator Pitch Practice: Scripted Pitch

Young Entrepreneur Institute

3 - 12

20 Minutes

In this activity, students practice presenting a provided pitch. The goals are to become more comfortable presenting to a group; start to establish a safe space by practicing constructive feedback with peers; develop or refine presentation skills such as pace, volume, tone, eye contact and confidence.

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Indoor-Outdoor Theater Voices

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Indoor-Outdoor Theater Voices

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children use tongue-twisters to experiment with modulating their voices. They progress from a soft whisper to a stage whisper and then up to a stage projection.

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Prototype a Transportation Vehicle/Vessel

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Arts in Action

Prototype a Transportation Vehicle/Vessel

Rediscover Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

In this activity, students will create prototypes of transportation vehicles. This project was inspired by Rosie Revere, Engineer, written by Andrea Beaty, and illustrated by David Roberts.

Rosie Revere, Engineer is a story of a young girl who dreams of becoming an engineer. We can all take a lesson from Rosie to realize that dreams, professions, skills, and passion are gender neutral. With the help of a wonderful role model in great-great Aunt Rose, Rosie realized that she should celebrate her failures and not hide her inventions! In this story, Rosie engineers a helicopter to make her Great Aunt Rose's dreams come true: to fly. With her inspiration, let's prototype our own transportation vehicle or vessel.

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Order in the (Supreme) Court!

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Order in the (Supreme) Court!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students discover the world of procedures, structure, traditions, and terminology that make up the highest court in the judicial branch of the U.S. Government.

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Plant Mysteries: Solved!

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

Plant Mysteries: Solved!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students identify a mystery to solve about plants, and then they research and report on the solution. This activity shows students the complexity of organisms that are essential for all animal life, including the lives of humans.

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The International Space Station (Grades 6-8)

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

The International Space Station (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Countries from around the world work together to make sure the International Space Station (ISS) is a success. In this activity, students research international cooperation on this project and share their findings with the group. This activity builds understanding of the challenges and rewards of international cooperation, as well as providing practice in speaking and listening.

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Say Thanks!

Belonging and Community, Stories and Perspectives

Say Thanks!

kid-grit

K - 2

20 Minutes

In this closing activity, students identify an act of kindness they witnessed and create a letter or picture of thanks to share with the person who was kind.

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Tuber Trouble or Garden Gold?: How to Perform a Dahlia Tuber Health Check

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

Tuber Trouble or Garden Gold?: How to Perform a Dahlia Tuber Health Check

Farm to Table Kids

3 - 8

1 Hour 10 Minutes

Before planting, it’s important to know if your dahlia tubers are ready to grow—or headed for the compost bin! In this hands-on science and garden investigation lesson, students become garden scientists by learning how to evaluate the health of a dahlia tuber. Using visual guides, observation, and a detailed health check worksheet, students will sort tubers into "Plant Me," "Needs Help," or "Compost Bin." They'll gain confidence identifying healthy growing signs—like firmness and visible eyes—and learn how to identify a healthy vs an unhealthy dahlia tuber.

This activity is 1 of 5 in the "How to Grow Dahlias" module from Farm to Table Kids. Visit the module to view the full set of learning resource and learn more about Part 1 of the module series, "Things to Know Before You Grow."

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Debating the War in Afghanistan

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Debating the War in Afghanistan

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students debate the decision to use military force in Afghanistan. They begin by reflecting on the significance of the attacks on September 11, 2001. They split into teams to analyze a variety of primary and secondary source documents reflecting different perspectives on the decision.

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Beyond the Headlines: Color Stories

Digital Voices, Arts in Action

Beyond the Headlines: Color Stories

PBS

3 - 5

30 Minutes

Dive into the colorful world of emotions and branding! Students get hands-on with colors, decode logo meanings, and craft a captivating color story for their news show. It's market research like never before!

This activity can be completed as a standalone lesson. It is best completed as part of SRL’s Beyond the Headlines 4-part series. This short series is also the first 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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Gallery Walk (Grades K-2)

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Gallery Walk (Grades K-2)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children look at a virtual art gallery from the Tate Gallery called “Who Is Gillian Ayres?” and describe what they see through sketching, writing, discussion, and art creation.

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Making Comics Part 3: Talking, Thinking, Dreaming

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Making Comics Part 3: Talking, Thinking, Dreaming

OregonASK

3 - 12

1 Hour

Talking, Thinking, and Dreaming are some of the ways that action unfolds in comics. Students have a chance to think about all the ways that language is used in comics, from lines that show action to the bubbles that show what characters are thinking and saying.

This is part 3 of 7 in a series. Provide context by first facilitating Making Comics Parts 1-2, and then afterward, Making Comics Parts 4-7.

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Choreograph Dance Moves (Grades 6-8)

Arts in Action, Leadership and Teamwork

Choreograph Dance Moves (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students work together to choreograph and perform a freestyle dance.

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Building a Background Story

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Building a Background Story

PBS

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this lesson, students craft detailed backstories for their sources. Let’s create a world of information to fuel our interviews!

This is lesson 10 in “Building a News Hour,” the second module from PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs’ module series.

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You Make the Rules!

We The People, Belonging and Community

You Make the Rules!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children learn that the government makes laws and discuss why communities have laws by comparing them to rules in afterschool programs and other familiar places like home and school. They then collaborate to propose ideas for new group rules and vote on whether or not to adopt them.

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Train Obstacle Course

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Train Obstacle Course

OregonASK

K - 2

1 Hour

Students set up a train-themed obstacle course. Afterward, they get their blood flowing by running through their own course!

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What Makes a Good Video Story? (Student Reporting Labs)

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

What Makes a Good Video Story? (Student Reporting Labs)

PBS

6 - 12

50 Minutes

What makes a video story good isn’t just about the topic, it’s how you tell the story.

In this lesson, you will focus on key elements that make for great nonfiction stories like news packages, video profiles, explainers, and short documentaries.

This is activity 4 of 16 in the PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs Module. Visit the Module to learn more before getting started.

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Meet the First President!

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Meet the First President!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children learn about the life of George Washington. After discussing the myth about Washington and the cherry tree, they read a biography to learn about his life. Then, they create a George Washington cherry tree, complete with details about his life.

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The Big Easy: Day 13 Lesson

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

The Big Easy: Day 13 Lesson

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Welcome to Lesson 13 of Jazz at Lincoln Center's module, "The Big Easy"! Students choreograph expressive dances inspired by fictional neighborhood, infusing movement with narrative and emotion.

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Basics of Presenting (Grades 9-12)

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Basics of Presenting (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students discuss best practices for delivering a presentation. Then students prepare and deliver a presentation on the topic of their choice.

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Food Tycoon (Team Building) Game

Arts in Action, Future Ready: Learning and Earning

Food Tycoon (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

K - 12

30 Minutes

Earn cash, customers, and compliments at your newly-created restaurant featuring your famous signature dish and motto!

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Design a New Toy

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Arts in Action

Design a New Toy

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students brainstorm and sketch ideas for new toys. Then they make a prototype from simple materials and present it to the group.

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Putting the Puzzle Together: Illustrating News Stories

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Putting the Puzzle Together: Illustrating News Stories

Pulitzer Center

K - 8

1 Hour

In this activity, students explore how news stories are like puzzle pieces that help us build knowledge to ultimately see the full picture of an issue. Students engage in a group read-aloud activity and listen for details that help them complete their own story puzzles with written information, feelings, and illustrations.

This activity is adapted from a lesson by Emily Otten, a Pulitzer Center Teacher Fellow and elementary school teacher.

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Simon Says Move!

Leadership and Teamwork, Arts in Action

Simon Says Move!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children move to music while the leader designates certain kinds of movements (rather than poses) such as "Simon says take two steps forward," "Hop on your right foot and turn around," and "Simon says swing around in a circle low to the ground."

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Animals That Talk in Stories

Stories and Perspectives, Arts in Action

Animals That Talk in Stories

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

In this activity, students search for animals in stories that talk or have human characteristics. Then, they create an animal to share with their peers.

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Snail Mail: Handwriting Practice

Stories and Perspectives, Digital Voices

Snail Mail: Handwriting Practice

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students practice their handwriting by writing a letter to a friend or family member. They can then either mail these letters (“snail mail”) or hand them to a friend.

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Wild Game Tournament

Leadership and Teamwork, Belonging and Community

Wild Game Tournament

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students will be part of a team competing in a wild-game tournament. They will be playing a variety of games one-on-one, while working to collect wins for their team. In the end there will be a winning team, and 1 student will be the grand winner of the entire tournament!

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Jungle Layers

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

Jungle Layers

California Academy of Sciences

3 - 8

1 Hour

Students learn about rainforest layers and the plants and animals who inhabit them by singing a fun Jungle Layers Song.

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Plant and Animal Observation

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

Plant and Animal Observation

City Parks Foundation

6 - 8

1 Hour 30 Minutes

In this lesson, students will practice identifying plant and animal species, and classifying them as either native or non-native. In doing so, students will also acquire knowledge of land survey and species identification methods used by biologists to evaluate habitats.

This is activity 2 of 5 in the "Invasive Species" module from City Parks Foundation.

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Handball

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Handball

Nickelodeon + Mizzen Education

3 - 5

1 Hour

The term handball is used to describe a variety of sports and games, typically involving hitting a ball with the hands. In this activity, youth play a version of the popular game in many elementary schools. The version is often called wallball because the game involves a ball hitting a wall. All forms of handball are excellent for developing hand-eye coordination.

This is activity 9 of 12 in the Nickelodeon Our World:The Play Lab Module.

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Animal Homes

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

Animal Homes

National Wildlife Federation

K - 8

50 Minutes

As humans, we live in homes for many of the same reasons animals live in homes, and just like animal homes, our human homes come in many different shapes and sizes, are built with a wide range of materials, and are built to withstand the climates in which we live.

A variety of factors affect the ability of wildlife to survive. An animal’s habitat must provide food, water, shelter from weather and predators, and a safe place to raise its young. Many animals, from ants and beavers to wolverines and yellow jackets, alter their surroundings to build their own homes. Children will be making observations of the animals and homes they find while outside.

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Hot 21st Century Careers

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Stories and Perspectives

Hot 21st Century Careers

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students read online sources about careers that will likely be in demand in the upcoming year: physical therapist, security manager, financial tech professional, and in-home care provider.

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The EU: A Brief History (and more!) of The European Union

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

The EU: A Brief History (and more!) of The European Union

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students work in pairs to learn about the European Union and create and share a 1-minute presentation about it.

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Journey in Time: The Lyrics of 1960s Protest Songs

Stories and Perspectives, We The People

Journey in Time: The Lyrics of 1960s Protest Songs

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Much of the music of the 1960s is well known for its social commentary. Students will read the lyrics of 6 songs from this era and use them to write a new song that conveys a message for our time. They will also explore how the perceptions of a writer and reader can be the same or different.

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Speed of the Human Nervous System

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

Speed of the Human Nervous System

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

In this fun activity, students measure their reaction time to a stimulus. They determine whether reaction time improves with practice and whether it is affected by distractions. Students also learn that reacting to stimuli involves coordination and communication between the eyes and brain of the nervous system and the hand muscles of the muscular system.

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Design Your Own Word Game

Stories and Perspectives, Arts in Action

Design Your Own Word Game

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

In this activity, students work in groups to create a prototype for a new word game. First, students use existing word games as inspiration to create a new one. Then, the groups rotate, playing the new games and giving feedback to be used as improvements for the prototype. Finally, students reconvene as a whole group for discussion.

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Get to Know You Bingo (Grades 6-8)

Belonging and Community, Stories and Perspectives

Get to Know You Bingo (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students complete a Bingo card about themselves and then play a collaborative Bingo game, learning personality traits and fun facts about one another along the way.

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Earthquakes & Tectonic Plates

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

Earthquakes & Tectonic Plates

California Academy of Sciences

3 - 8

2 Hours

How can we determine the locations of tectonic plate boundaries? How can we use seismic waves to pinpoint the epicenter of an earthquake? Students will explore these and other questions using seismic data and triangulation.

Discover Activity

Merry Mix Jigsaw

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

Merry Mix Jigsaw

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Each student receives an index card that describes a mixture, a tool, or a physical property. Their task is to match their card with 2 other cards. Taken together as a trio, the cards describe a successful way to use the tool to separate a mixture using a physical property.

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Double the Puzzles, Double the Fun!

Arts in Action, Belonging and Community

Double the Puzzles, Double the Fun!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

In this activity, students create a two-sided jigsaw puzzle. One side will be a printed picture, and the other will be a drawing they have created. Double the puzzles, double the fun!

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Evolution (Team Building) Game

Belonging and Community, Leadership and Teamwork

Evolution (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

3 - 12

10 Minutes

Evolve into a newer, larger and more animated character as you compete in a hilarious rendition of rock, paper, scissors!

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Combat Global Climate Change—and Make Money, Too!

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

Combat Global Climate Change—and Make Money, Too!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Student teams research various technologies and strategies for combating global climate change, including carbon capture, biofuel production, and new systems for mass transit. They recognize that each of these technologies could offer a huge profit for a savvy entrepreneur or business.

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The Big Easy: Day 1 Lesson

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

The Big Easy: Day 1 Lesson

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Welcome to Lesson 1 of Jazz at Lincoln Center's module, "The Big Easy"! Dive into the captivating world of art and music as students explore how artists and musicians bring stories to life. Discover the magic of beat, tempo, and lines as students create their first masterpiece, setting the stage for an inspiring journey ahead.

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Art Head (Team Building) Game

Arts in Action, Belonging and Community

Art Head (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

3 - 12

20 Minutes

Take art to a higher level as players use the tops of their heads to draw!

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Simple Clay Human Figures Full Body

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Simple Clay Human Figures Full Body

OregonASK

K - 8

1 Hour

Students learn one technique for sculpting human bodies. Students will also learn important clay making skills.

Discover Activity

Grid Paper Puzzles

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, We The People

Grid Paper Puzzles

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Not all puzzles have simple solutions! In this activity, students try different strategies to divide a grid into rectangular regions. The goal is to make each region as equal in size as possible.

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Logic Puzzle

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, We The People

Logic Puzzle

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

In earlier grades, students might have completed an activity in which they match descriptions or captions to individual photographs. Middle School students, however, will be intrigued by a more challenging version of this activity, in which an individual description might apply to many photos. Today, the students will work together to find the one reasonable match, among many possible matches, between 20 descriptions and 20 photos. Students will discover that finding the solution requires perseverance, logic and reasoning skills, and cooperation.

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Let’s Move!

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Let’s Move!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 8

45 Minutes

Exercise can help reduce stress and help maintain a healthy weight. It also improves posture and overall health by keeping the body flexible. If the body stays seated and does not move around, it gets stuck in certain positions or patterns, leading to sore backs or stiff joints. In this activity, students will practice some useful exercise techniques and try exercising in large groups, small groups, with a partner, or by themselves.

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Relative Sizes of Planets

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

Relative Sizes of Planets

OregonASK

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students visualize the relative volumes of the eight planets and the dwarf planet Pluto in the solar system.

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The Industrial Revolution

We The People, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

The Industrial Revolution

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

During the Industrial Revolution, many new technologies and inventions were introduced to Americans. Students learn all about them as they complete a scavenger hunt by using internet resources to find the answers to clues. They conclude the activity with a group discussion about the impact of these technologies on our lives today.

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Street Tree Care

The Natural World, Leadership and Teamwork

Street Tree Care

City Parks Foundation

6 - 8

1 Hour 50 Minutes

A city tree must battle many urban hazards daily- from air pollution and bicycles, to dogs and people. In addition to above ground threats, tree roots also must contend with tough below-ground conditions. A tree pit or lawn strip provides limited space for these forest giants and this soil is a tree’s only source of nutrients. Because of this, it is essential to create as nurturing a tree pit as possible.

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

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Obstacle Course (Grades 9-12)

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Obstacle Course (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

In this activity, students test their agility, speed, and stamina as they compete for the best time in an obstacle course.

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How Viruses Infect Cells

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

How Viruses Infect Cells

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students present skits in which they role-play the two infectious cycles that viruses undergo to attack cells: the lytic cycle and the lysogenic cycle. This activity combines biology and drama to teach skills in both disciplines.

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Choreograph Dance Moves (Grades 9-12)

Arts in Action, Leadership and Teamwork

Choreograph Dance Moves (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students work together to respond to music they have chosen by creating a choreographed freestyle dance and then performing for each other.

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The Ecosystem Where I Live

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

The Ecosystem Where I Live

National Wildlife Federation

3 - 8

50 Minutes

An ecosystem is where plants and animals live with and interact with nonliving elements, both natural and human-made. Ecosystems host biotic or living organisms, as well as abiotic or nonliving parts. Biotic organisms include plants and wildlife, while abiotic components of an ecosystem include rocks, temperature, and soil. Ecosystems can be very big or very small; for example, a river is a huge ecosystem, and under a rock is a tiny ecosystem.

Every aspect of an ecosystem depends upon another, either directly or indirectly. To illustrate this, imagine the amount of rainfall in a given location is a variable (other variables include temperature, sunlight, and elevation) to predict the types of plants that will grow there. All of these factors will then support wildlife who depend on these plant species and weather conditions for survival.

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Simple Signs

Belonging and Community, Stories and Perspectives

Simple Signs

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

In this activity, students learn about American Sign Language (ASL) and practice some of the simpler signs. They use their new signing ability to communicate messages to each other.

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Practice Internet Hygiene

Digital Voices, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

Practice Internet Hygiene

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

High school students may consider themselves to be experts on the internet and its protocols. However, they may not recognize how online activities can affect a computer, as well as the dangers that certain internet uses can invite. In this activity, students participate in a simulation of common internet usage, and then discover how easily personal information can be compromised.

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Free Press Comic or Collage

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Free Press Comic or Collage

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students explore the importance of the freedom of the press in the United States. They identify examples of the press, examine modern newspapers and magazines, and analyze a mock headline and story to consider limitations on a free press. Finally, teams use what they have learned to create a cartoon, collage, or comic strip illustrating the rights of the press, limits on those rights, and the importance of a free press.

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Wonderful Websites

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Wonderful Websites

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

In this activity, the children explore a variety of age-appropriate websites with a partner. They read, play games, watch videos, and so on., with an adult monitoring their progress and helping out, as needed.

Discover Activity

The Sponge Challenge

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

The Sponge Challenge

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 12

45 Minutes

Students devise a method to wet all parts of a sponge (inside and out) within 10 seconds. This activity demonstrates an important lesson in life science about cell size.

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Modeling DNA

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

Modeling DNA

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students construct a model of half of a strand of DNA, then work with partners to complete the double-strand. This activity builds understanding of the structure and function of DNA and prepares students for a deeper understanding of molecular genetics.

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Big Data Comes with Big Issues

Digital Voices, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

Big Data Comes with Big Issues

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Many internet users often claim that “anything can be found online” or that “information is just a point, click, tap, or swipe away.” However, are we sacrificing our privacy in exchange for the convenience that the internet offers? In this activity, students will watch a video about how data is collected and used online, and then consider the benefits and consequences of this system.

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Human Rights: Rights for Everyone

We The People, Belonging and Community

Human Rights: Rights for Everyone

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students recognize the concept of human rights and are introduced to a proclamation from the United Nations: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Students work in small groups to create a poster to demonstrate 1 of the rights identified in the document.

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Building a Mini Greenhouse

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

Building a Mini Greenhouse

OregonASK

6 - 8

1 Hour

Students make a mini greenhouse and learn about how they work.

Discover Activity

Give One, Get One (Grades 9-12)

Stories and Perspectives, Arts in Action

Give One, Get One (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

In this activity, students read and interpret a poem. They record their thoughts and ideas about the poem and then share ideas for writing a poem of their own during a “Give one, Get one” group activity. Students will discover that poetry can take on many forms and present a variety of subjects, all depending on the mindset, imagination, and writing skills of the author.

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Mystery Box

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

Mystery Box

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students use their powers of observation to make educated guesses about the contents of closed shoeboxes. This activity builds observational and scientific inquiry skills.

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Write a Children’s Story

Stories and Perspectives, Arts in Action

Write a Children’s Story

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

In this activity, students work in small groups to write and illustrate a children’s story. Students will also collaborate to review their peers’ work and then share their feedback in groups.

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Observing Nature

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

Observing Nature

National Wildlife Federation

K - 8

50 Minutes

While touch and taste help round out the five senses, it’s crucial children do not touch or taste anything that could cause harm, such as poison ivy or Virginia creeper berries.

¹https://www.nsta.org/publications/news/story.aspx?id=52414

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Clay Slab Construction Faces

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Clay Slab Construction Faces

OregonASK

K - 8

1 Hour

Students sculpt clay faces using a simple slab technique and air-dry clay.

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We Can Help the Planet!

The Natural World, Arts in Action

We Can Help the Planet!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children learn about ways they can help the planet by listening to a teacher read a picture book on the subject, then creating posters to illustrate what they learned.

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Delivering a Persuasive Argument (Grades 9-12)

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Delivering a Persuasive Argument (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

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Heavy Lifting

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

Heavy Lifting

NASA

3 - 8

45 Minutes

Students construct balloon-powered rockets to launch the greatest payload possible to the classroom ceiling.

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Shape Hunt

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

Shape Hunt

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

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What Is History, and Why Does It Matter?

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

What Is History, and Why Does It Matter?

Pulitzer Center

K - 8

1 Hour 15 Minutes

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Invasive Species Management Proposal

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

Invasive Species Management Proposal

City Parks Foundation

6 - 8

1 Hour

This is activity 4 of 5 in the "Invasive Species" module from City Parks Foundation.

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Elevator Pitch Practice: Scripted Pitch

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Leadership and Teamwork

Elevator Pitch Practice: Scripted Pitch

Young Entrepreneur Institute

3 - 12

20 Minutes

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Indoor-Outdoor Theater Voices

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Indoor-Outdoor Theater Voices

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children use tongue-twisters to experiment with modulating their voices. They progress from a soft whisper to a stage whisper and then up to a stage projection.

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Prototype a Transportation Vehicle/Vessel

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Arts in Action

Prototype a Transportation Vehicle/Vessel

Rediscover Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

In this activity, students will create prototypes of transportation vehicles. This project was inspired by Rosie Revere, Engineer, written by Andrea Beaty, and illustrated by David Roberts.

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Order in the (Supreme) Court!

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Order in the (Supreme) Court!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students discover the world of procedures, structure, traditions, and terminology that make up the highest court in the judicial branch of the U.S. Government.

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Plant Mysteries: Solved!

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

Plant Mysteries: Solved!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

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The International Space Station (Grades 6-8)

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

The International Space Station (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

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Say Thanks!

Belonging and Community, Stories and Perspectives

Say Thanks!

kid-grit

K - 2

20 Minutes

In this closing activity, students identify an act of kindness they witnessed and create a letter or picture of thanks to share with the person who was kind.

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Tuber Trouble or Garden Gold?: How to Perform a Dahlia Tuber Health Check

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

Tuber Trouble or Garden Gold?: How to Perform a Dahlia Tuber Health Check

Farm to Table Kids

3 - 8

1 Hour 10 Minutes

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Debating the War in Afghanistan

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Debating the War in Afghanistan

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

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Beyond the Headlines: Color Stories

Digital Voices, Arts in Action

Beyond the Headlines: Color Stories

PBS

3 - 5

30 Minutes

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Gallery Walk (Grades K-2)

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Gallery Walk (Grades K-2)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Children look at a virtual art gallery from the Tate Gallery called “Who Is Gillian Ayres?” and describe what they see through sketching, writing, discussion, and art creation.

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Making Comics Part 3: Talking, Thinking, Dreaming

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Making Comics Part 3: Talking, Thinking, Dreaming

OregonASK

3 - 12

1 Hour

This is part 3 of 7 in a series. Provide context by first facilitating Making Comics Parts 1-2, and then afterward, Making Comics Parts 4-7.

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Choreograph Dance Moves (Grades 6-8)

Arts in Action, Leadership and Teamwork

Choreograph Dance Moves (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students work together to choreograph and perform a freestyle dance.

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Building a Background Story

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Building a Background Story

PBS

3 - 5

45 Minutes

In this lesson, students craft detailed backstories for their sources. Let’s create a world of information to fuel our interviews!

This is lesson 10 in “Building a News Hour,” the second module from PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs’ module series.

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You Make the Rules!

We The People, Belonging and Community

You Make the Rules!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

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Train Obstacle Course

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Train Obstacle Course

OregonASK

K - 2

1 Hour

Students set up a train-themed obstacle course. Afterward, they get their blood flowing by running through their own course!

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What Makes a Good Video Story? (Student Reporting Labs)

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

What Makes a Good Video Story? (Student Reporting Labs)

PBS

6 - 12

50 Minutes

What makes a video story good isn’t just about the topic, it’s how you tell the story.

In this lesson, you will focus on key elements that make for great nonfiction stories like news packages, video profiles, explainers, and short documentaries.

This is activity 4 of 16 in the PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs Module. Visit the Module to learn more before getting started.

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Meet the First President!

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Meet the First President!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

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The Big Easy: Day 13 Lesson

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

The Big Easy: Day 13 Lesson

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Welcome to Lesson 13 of Jazz at Lincoln Center's module, "The Big Easy"! Students choreograph expressive dances inspired by fictional neighborhood, infusing movement with narrative and emotion.

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Basics of Presenting (Grades 9-12)

Stories and Perspectives, Belonging and Community

Basics of Presenting (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students discuss best practices for delivering a presentation. Then students prepare and deliver a presentation on the topic of their choice.

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Food Tycoon (Team Building) Game

Arts in Action, Future Ready: Learning and Earning

Food Tycoon (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

K - 12

30 Minutes

Earn cash, customers, and compliments at your newly-created restaurant featuring your famous signature dish and motto!

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Design a New Toy

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, Arts in Action

Design a New Toy

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students brainstorm and sketch ideas for new toys. Then they make a prototype from simple materials and present it to the group.

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Putting the Puzzle Together: Illustrating News Stories

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Putting the Puzzle Together: Illustrating News Stories

Pulitzer Center

K - 8

1 Hour

This activity is adapted from a lesson by Emily Otten, a Pulitzer Center Teacher Fellow and elementary school teacher.

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Simon Says Move!

Leadership and Teamwork, Arts in Action

Simon Says Move!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Animals That Talk in Stories

Stories and Perspectives, Arts in Action

Animals That Talk in Stories

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

In this activity, students search for animals in stories that talk or have human characteristics. Then, they create an animal to share with their peers.

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Snail Mail: Handwriting Practice

Stories and Perspectives, Digital Voices

Snail Mail: Handwriting Practice

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students practice their handwriting by writing a letter to a friend or family member. They can then either mail these letters (“snail mail”) or hand them to a friend.

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Wild Game Tournament

Leadership and Teamwork, Belonging and Community

Wild Game Tournament

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

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Jungle Layers

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

Jungle Layers

California Academy of Sciences

3 - 8

1 Hour

Students learn about rainforest layers and the plants and animals who inhabit them by singing a fun Jungle Layers Song.

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Plant and Animal Observation

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

Plant and Animal Observation

City Parks Foundation

6 - 8

1 Hour 30 Minutes

This is activity 2 of 5 in the "Invasive Species" module from City Parks Foundation.

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Handball

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Handball

Nickelodeon + Mizzen Education

3 - 5

1 Hour

This is activity 9 of 12 in the Nickelodeon Our World:The Play Lab Module.

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Animal Homes

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

Animal Homes

National Wildlife Federation

K - 8

50 Minutes

Discover Activity

Hot 21st Century Careers

Future Ready: Learning and Earning, Stories and Perspectives

Hot 21st Century Careers

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students read online sources about careers that will likely be in demand in the upcoming year: physical therapist, security manager, financial tech professional, and in-home care provider.

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The EU: A Brief History (and more!) of The European Union

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

The EU: A Brief History (and more!) of The European Union

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students work in pairs to learn about the European Union and create and share a 1-minute presentation about it.

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Journey in Time: The Lyrics of 1960s Protest Songs

Stories and Perspectives, We The People

Journey in Time: The Lyrics of 1960s Protest Songs

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Speed of the Human Nervous System

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

Speed of the Human Nervous System

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Design Your Own Word Game

Stories and Perspectives, Arts in Action

Design Your Own Word Game

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Get to Know You Bingo (Grades 6-8)

Belonging and Community, Stories and Perspectives

Get to Know You Bingo (Grades 6-8)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students complete a Bingo card about themselves and then play a collaborative Bingo game, learning personality traits and fun facts about one another along the way.

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Earthquakes & Tectonic Plates

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

Earthquakes & Tectonic Plates

California Academy of Sciences

3 - 8

2 Hours

Discover Activity

Merry Mix Jigsaw

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

Merry Mix Jigsaw

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Double the Puzzles, Double the Fun!

Arts in Action, Belonging and Community

Double the Puzzles, Double the Fun!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

In this activity, students create a two-sided jigsaw puzzle. One side will be a printed picture, and the other will be a drawing they have created. Double the puzzles, double the fun!

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Evolution (Team Building) Game

Belonging and Community, Leadership and Teamwork

Evolution (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

3 - 12

10 Minutes

Evolve into a newer, larger and more animated character as you compete in a hilarious rendition of rock, paper, scissors!

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Combat Global Climate Change—and Make Money, Too!

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

Combat Global Climate Change—and Make Money, Too!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

The Big Easy: Day 1 Lesson

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

The Big Easy: Day 1 Lesson

Jazz at Lincoln Center

3 - 8

1 Hour

Discover Activity

Art Head (Team Building) Game

Arts in Action, Belonging and Community

Art Head (Team Building) Game

!Mpact Players

3 - 12

20 Minutes

Take art to a higher level as players use the tops of their heads to draw!

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Simple Clay Human Figures Full Body

Arts in Action, Stories and Perspectives

Simple Clay Human Figures Full Body

OregonASK

K - 8

1 Hour

Students learn one technique for sculpting human bodies. Students will also learn important clay making skills.

Discover Activity

Grid Paper Puzzles

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, We The People

Grid Paper Puzzles

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Not all puzzles have simple solutions! In this activity, students try different strategies to divide a grid into rectangular regions. The goal is to make each region as equal in size as possible.

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Logic Puzzle

STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore, We The People

Logic Puzzle

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Let’s Move!

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Let’s Move!

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Relative Sizes of Planets

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

Relative Sizes of Planets

OregonASK

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Students visualize the relative volumes of the eight planets and the dwarf planet Pluto in the solar system.

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The Industrial Revolution

We The People, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

The Industrial Revolution

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

Discover Activity

Street Tree Care

The Natural World, Leadership and Teamwork

Street Tree Care

City Parks Foundation

6 - 8

1 Hour 50 Minutes

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

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Obstacle Course (Grades 9-12)

Leadership and Teamwork, Whole Body, Whole Self

Obstacle Course (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

In this activity, students test their agility, speed, and stamina as they compete for the best time in an obstacle course.

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How Viruses Infect Cells

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

How Viruses Infect Cells

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Choreograph Dance Moves (Grades 9-12)

Arts in Action, Leadership and Teamwork

Choreograph Dance Moves (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Students work together to respond to music they have chosen by creating a choreographed freestyle dance and then performing for each other.

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The Ecosystem Where I Live

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

The Ecosystem Where I Live

National Wildlife Federation

3 - 8

50 Minutes

Discover Activity

Simple Signs

Belonging and Community, Stories and Perspectives

Simple Signs

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

In this activity, students learn about American Sign Language (ASL) and practice some of the simpler signs. They use their new signing ability to communicate messages to each other.

Discover Activity

Practice Internet Hygiene

Digital Voices, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

Practice Internet Hygiene

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Free Press Comic or Collage

We The People, Stories and Perspectives

Free Press Comic or Collage

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Wonderful Websites

Digital Voices, Stories and Perspectives

Wonderful Websites

Mizzen Education, Inc.

K - 2

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

The Sponge Challenge

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

The Sponge Challenge

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 12

45 Minutes

Students devise a method to wet all parts of a sponge (inside and out) within 10 seconds. This activity demonstrates an important lesson in life science about cell size.

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Modeling DNA

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

Modeling DNA

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Big Data Comes with Big Issues

Digital Voices, STEM Lab: Build, Tinker, Explore

Big Data Comes with Big Issues

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Human Rights: Rights for Everyone

We The People, Belonging and Community

Human Rights: Rights for Everyone

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Building a Mini Greenhouse

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

Building a Mini Greenhouse

OregonASK

6 - 8

1 Hour

Students make a mini greenhouse and learn about how they work.

Discover Activity

Give One, Get One (Grades 9-12)

Stories and Perspectives, Arts in Action

Give One, Get One (Grades 9-12)

Mizzen Education, Inc.

9 - 12

45 Minutes

Discover Activity

Mystery Box

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

Mystery Box

Mizzen Education, Inc.

3 - 5

45 Minutes

Students use their powers of observation to make educated guesses about the contents of closed shoeboxes. This activity builds observational and scientific inquiry skills.

Discover Activity

Write a Children’s Story

Stories and Perspectives, Arts in Action

Write a Children’s Story

Mizzen Education, Inc.

6 - 8

45 Minutes

In this activity, students work in small groups to write and illustrate a children’s story. Students will also collaborate to review their peers’ work and then share their feedback in groups.

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Library

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Community

Our Story Team Mizzen Events The Mizzen Minute

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Library

Categories Collaborators Explore All Activities All Collections

Community

Our Story Team Mizzen Events The Mizzen Minute

Engage

Newsroom Contact Us

Account