Students study Group 18 to understand stability. They learn that having a full outer shell makes these atoms unreactive. Applications of noble gases (neon lights, blimps) are discussed to show the utility of non-reactivity.
An ecology-themed mystery where students analyze plant biology, photosynthesis rates, and soil chemistry to find who sabotaged the lab's carbon-offset project.
A geology-themed mystery where students analyze mineral properties like hardness, luster, and density to find out who stole a rare lunar meteor sample.
A chemistry-themed mystery where students analyze flame tests, atomic mass, and chemical reactivity to find out who stole a sample of a rare heavy metal.
A physics-themed mystery where students analyze electrical circuits, resistance, and conductivity to find out who short-circuited the lab's main power grid.
A microbiology-themed mystery where students analyze bacterial traits, Gram stains, and antibiotic resistance to find who contaminated a bio-engineered enzyme.
A fast-paced science mystery where students use 8 scientific clues to identify who sabotaged a high-stakes experiment. Students analyze pH, density, chromatography, and more to eliminate suspects.
A series of visual anchor charts designed for reference during laboratory investigations into plant vascular systems, photosynthesis, and transpiration.
A high-energy, movement-based review activity where students solve 'medical cases' by identifying body systems and their functions. This lesson includes task cards for a classroom scavenger hunt and a structured recording sheet for students.
A two-block exploration of animal systems, focusing on homeostasis, nutrient absorption, reproduction, and defense mechanisms.
A two-block investigation into plant tissue systems, vascular transport, reproductive adaptations, and environmental responses.
A lesson exploring the symbiotic relationship between humans and gut bacteria, focusing on the gut-brain connection and the impact of nutrition on mood. Students create metaphors for their microbiome and identify ways to support beneficial bacteria.
Students analyze the relationship between chemical structure, mode of delivery, and addiction potential using the 'Speed of Delivery' concept. The lesson features a comparative analysis of substances like heroin vs. morphine and vaping vs. nicotine patches to understand the biological 'why' behind addiction.
This lesson connects behavioral symptoms of schizoaffective disorder to neurotransmitter imbalances and explores the pharmacological mechanisms of antipsychotics and mood stabilizers through research and diagramming.
A middle school science lesson exploring neuroplasticity through medical recovery case studies. Students investigate how the brain 'reroutes' neural pathways after injury using adaptation and recovery strategies.
A 6th-8th grade science and health lesson exploring neuroplasticity through a hands-on yarn simulation and a video-based discussion. Students learn how neural pathways strengthen through use and dissolve through neglect.
Students investigate the intersection of neurobiology and external substances, analyzing how drugs and hormones alter neurotransmitter function to change a person's perception of reality.
A comprehensive biology lesson for 9th-10th grade students exploring the biological feedback loops between the endocrine and nervous systems during stress, focusing on the role of corticosteroids, the amygdala, and the prefrontal cortex in memory.
A lesson for 7th-8th grade science focusing on the biological and genetic foundations of autism. Students debunk common myths, analyze brain development through video, and research how the brain interacts with other body systems in co-occurring conditions.
A high-level genetics lesson exploring how environmental factors like maternal care and stress trigger epigenetic modifications that influence gene expression across generations. Students analyze the classic Meaney rat study to understand the molecular mechanisms beyond DNA sequences.
A high school psychology lesson exploring the physiological impact of chronic stress on brain structures like the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex, featuring a video analysis and case study application.
A high school biology lesson exploring the endocrine system's stress response via the HPA axis, the physiological role of cortisol, and the impact of chronic stress on brain structure and homeostasis. Students analyze feedback loops and the brain's neuroplasticity through video analysis and diagramming.
A comprehensive lesson exploring the evolution of hunting from ancient survival to modern conservation, including economic impacts and ethical debates surrounding biodiversity.
Explore how plants and other organisms capture solar energy to build life-sustaining sugars while comparing the process to cellular respiration.
A lesson exploring the characteristics, classification, and social behavior of prehistoric Sabertooth cats.
Focuses on reading security logs, understanding time formats (24h vs 12h), and using logic to follow a suspect's movement through keycard data.