Heres the pdf of our Adapted FOSS Environment Unit.
Enjoy!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
FOSS Environment Unit Website Resources
Ask Doctor Global Change (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.gcrio.org/ask-doctor.html
Description: A reference service provided by Global Change Research Information Office (GCRIO) that assists in finding information and data relevant to global environmental change. Provides students with a searchable collection of answers to questions about issues related to climate change and students can submit questions of their own and explore related links
Bell Live! Online Eco-games (student resource)
URL: http://www.bellmuseum.org/ecogames.html
Description: From the University of Minnesota and the Bell Museum, online activities include Build-A-Prairie and The Watershed Game.
BioKids: Inquiry of Diverse Species (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.biokids.umich.edu/
Description: This site includes information for both students and teachers concerning diverse species, especially in southeast Michigan. Check out the Critter Catalog for photos and information about a variety of organisms studied in FOSS modules and courses, including crayfish and cockroaches.
Biology of Plants (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://mbgnet.mobot.org/bioplants/main.html
Description: Play games, watch video clips, view animated diagrams, and sing songs to learn about plant parts, photosynthesis, pollination, seed dispersal, and plant adaptations. From the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Biosphere 2 (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.b2science.org/
Description: Take a virtual trip to Biosphere 2, a 204,000 cubic meter (7,200,000 cubic foot) sealed glass and spaceframe structure. It includes elements from the original Biosphere 1. Inside the structure you'll find seven wilderness ecosystems, including a rainforest and a 3,400,000 liter (900,000 gallon) ocean, as well as a human habitat which now houses interactive exhibits.
Brine Shrimp And Ecology Of Great Salt Lake (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://ut.water.usgs.gov/shrimp/index.html
Description: More information about the life cycle of brine shrimp and the commercial brine shrimp industry.
ENature (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.enature.com/
Description: This site features complete field guides to animals and plants. The regional search feature allows you to find species in your region.
Environmental Defense Fund/Scorecard (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.scorecard.org/
Description: Find out how your community rates on the pollution scorecard. All you need to know is your zip code and you will get a report of the major polluters that affect your area.
Environmental Explorers' Club (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.epa.gov/kids/
Description: This site is presented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It includes several "rooms" in which you can explore the air, your environment, reycling, science, art, and plants and animals. Each area includes activities and resources to explore.
EPA Student Center (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.epa.gov/students/
Description: Designed for older students, this site includes activities and resources dealing with the following topics: air, water, human health, waste and recycling, conservation, and more.
Frogland (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://allaboutfrogs.org/froglnd.shtml
Description: This site is everything you always wanted to know about frogs.
How Electromagnets Work (teacher resource)
URL: http://science.howstuffworks.com/electromagnet.htm
Description: The basic idea behind an electromagnet is extremely simple: By running electric current through a wire, you can create a magnetic field. Explore the devices that use electromagnets and try some electromagnetic projects for yourself.
I Was Wondering: Women's Adventures in Science (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://iwaswondering.org
Description: This project of the National Academy of Sciences showcases the accomplishments of contemporary women in science and highlights the varied and intriguing careers of some of today's most prominent scientists.
Kid's Corner (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://biology.usgs.gov/features/kidscorner/kidscrnr.html
Description: Explore the USGS Biological Resources Division for kids.
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.wildflower.org/
Description: Formerly the National Wildflower Research Center, a nonprofit educational organization with links to native plant societies and environmental organizations.
The Nature Conservancy (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://nature.org
Description: This site is the home page for The Nature Conservancy, an environmental organization whose primary concern is preserving natural habitats for endangered species.
NOAA's Ark (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.photolib.noaa.gov/animals/index.html
Description: This collection of images from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) includes many wonderful pictures of both land- and ocean-dwelling creatures, including bears, whales, birds, and walruses.
NOAA's Photo Library (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.photolib.noaa.gov
Description: This collection of images from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) includes many wonderful pictures of both land- and ocean-dwelling creatures, including bears, whales, birds, and walruses.
Plants and Youth: Design and Build a Terrarium (teacher resource)
URL: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/MG356
Description: With this illustrated online guide from the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, students can have a great time designing and building simple terrariums using quart jars or goldfish bowls. (Note: A warm terrarium is perfect for sprouting as many grapefruit seeds as you have room for.)
Private Universe Project in Science (teacher resource)
URL: http://www.learner.org/resources/series29.html#
Description: This innovative workshop for teachers explores the reasons why teaching science is so difficult and offers practical advice to help you teach more effectively. Each program focuses on one theme and one content area and uses specific examples to show how students' preconceived ideas can create critical barriers to learning. Education experts also review classroom strategies and results and recommend new ways to involve students and approach difficult topics. Nine different videos cover a variety of topics including astronomy, biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental education.
Scientific American/Ask The Experts (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.sciam.com/askexpert_directory.cfm
Description: This site, maintained by Scientific American magazine, provides visitors with the opportunity to ask questions concerning specific phenomenon in science, mathematics, and technology.
Scientific American then passes these queries on to experts in both academia and industry.
Seeding The Garden (teacher resource)
URL: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/VH026
Description: This University of Florida site describe how to use seeds to start a garden.
USDA Plants National Database (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://plants.usda.gov
Description: This USDA site includes information on any plant living in North America. Some entries have extensive information and pictures. Primary students may need adult assistance with this site.
USGS Biological Resources Division (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://biology.usgs.gov/
Description: This site includes a photo gallery, education links, special interest stories, plus other information concerning the Biological Resources Division.
Vegetable Pollination And Fertilization (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.ipm.iastate.edu/ipm/hortnews/1996/3-22-1996/pollen.html
Description: How many common vegetables accomplish pollination and fertilization.
What’s It Like Where You Live? (student resource)
URL: http://mbgnet.mobot.org/
Description: Find out about the biomes and ecosystems in our world.
Wonderwise: Women in Science Learning Series (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://wonderwise.unl.edu/
Description: Introduces you to women who have made science their career. You can take several field trips, including space geology, African plant exploration, and urban ecology.
URL: http://www.gcrio.org/ask-doctor.html
Description: A reference service provided by Global Change Research Information Office (GCRIO) that assists in finding information and data relevant to global environmental change. Provides students with a searchable collection of answers to questions about issues related to climate change and students can submit questions of their own and explore related links
Bell Live! Online Eco-games (student resource)
URL: http://www.bellmuseum.org/ecogames.html
Description: From the University of Minnesota and the Bell Museum, online activities include Build-A-Prairie and The Watershed Game.
BioKids: Inquiry of Diverse Species (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.biokids.umich.edu/
Description: This site includes information for both students and teachers concerning diverse species, especially in southeast Michigan. Check out the Critter Catalog for photos and information about a variety of organisms studied in FOSS modules and courses, including crayfish and cockroaches.
Biology of Plants (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://mbgnet.mobot.org/bioplants/main.html
Description: Play games, watch video clips, view animated diagrams, and sing songs to learn about plant parts, photosynthesis, pollination, seed dispersal, and plant adaptations. From the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Biosphere 2 (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.b2science.org/
Description: Take a virtual trip to Biosphere 2, a 204,000 cubic meter (7,200,000 cubic foot) sealed glass and spaceframe structure. It includes elements from the original Biosphere 1. Inside the structure you'll find seven wilderness ecosystems, including a rainforest and a 3,400,000 liter (900,000 gallon) ocean, as well as a human habitat which now houses interactive exhibits.
Brine Shrimp And Ecology Of Great Salt Lake (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://ut.water.usgs.gov/shrimp/index.html
Description: More information about the life cycle of brine shrimp and the commercial brine shrimp industry.
ENature (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.enature.com/
Description: This site features complete field guides to animals and plants. The regional search feature allows you to find species in your region.
Environmental Defense Fund/Scorecard (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.scorecard.org/
Description: Find out how your community rates on the pollution scorecard. All you need to know is your zip code and you will get a report of the major polluters that affect your area.
Environmental Explorers' Club (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.epa.gov/kids/
Description: This site is presented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It includes several "rooms" in which you can explore the air, your environment, reycling, science, art, and plants and animals. Each area includes activities and resources to explore.
EPA Student Center (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.epa.gov/students/
Description: Designed for older students, this site includes activities and resources dealing with the following topics: air, water, human health, waste and recycling, conservation, and more.
Frogland (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://allaboutfrogs.org/froglnd.shtml
Description: This site is everything you always wanted to know about frogs.
How Electromagnets Work (teacher resource)
URL: http://science.howstuffworks.com/electromagnet.htm
Description: The basic idea behind an electromagnet is extremely simple: By running electric current through a wire, you can create a magnetic field. Explore the devices that use electromagnets and try some electromagnetic projects for yourself.
I Was Wondering: Women's Adventures in Science (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://iwaswondering.org
Description: This project of the National Academy of Sciences showcases the accomplishments of contemporary women in science and highlights the varied and intriguing careers of some of today's most prominent scientists.
Kid's Corner (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://biology.usgs.gov/features/kidscorner/kidscrnr.html
Description: Explore the USGS Biological Resources Division for kids.
The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.wildflower.org/
Description: Formerly the National Wildflower Research Center, a nonprofit educational organization with links to native plant societies and environmental organizations.
The Nature Conservancy (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://nature.org
Description: This site is the home page for The Nature Conservancy, an environmental organization whose primary concern is preserving natural habitats for endangered species.
NOAA's Ark (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.photolib.noaa.gov/animals/index.html
Description: This collection of images from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) includes many wonderful pictures of both land- and ocean-dwelling creatures, including bears, whales, birds, and walruses.
NOAA's Photo Library (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.photolib.noaa.gov
Description: This collection of images from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) includes many wonderful pictures of both land- and ocean-dwelling creatures, including bears, whales, birds, and walruses.
Plants and Youth: Design and Build a Terrarium (teacher resource)
URL: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/MG356
Description: With this illustrated online guide from the Florida Cooperative Extension Service, students can have a great time designing and building simple terrariums using quart jars or goldfish bowls. (Note: A warm terrarium is perfect for sprouting as many grapefruit seeds as you have room for.)
Private Universe Project in Science (teacher resource)
URL: http://www.learner.org/resources/series29.html#
Description: This innovative workshop for teachers explores the reasons why teaching science is so difficult and offers practical advice to help you teach more effectively. Each program focuses on one theme and one content area and uses specific examples to show how students' preconceived ideas can create critical barriers to learning. Education experts also review classroom strategies and results and recommend new ways to involve students and approach difficult topics. Nine different videos cover a variety of topics including astronomy, biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental education.
Scientific American/Ask The Experts (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.sciam.com/askexpert_directory.cfm
Description: This site, maintained by Scientific American magazine, provides visitors with the opportunity to ask questions concerning specific phenomenon in science, mathematics, and technology.
Scientific American then passes these queries on to experts in both academia and industry.
Seeding The Garden (teacher resource)
URL: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/VH026
Description: This University of Florida site describe how to use seeds to start a garden.
USDA Plants National Database (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://plants.usda.gov
Description: This USDA site includes information on any plant living in North America. Some entries have extensive information and pictures. Primary students may need adult assistance with this site.
USGS Biological Resources Division (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://biology.usgs.gov/
Description: This site includes a photo gallery, education links, special interest stories, plus other information concerning the Biological Resources Division.
Vegetable Pollination And Fertilization (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://www.ipm.iastate.edu/ipm/hortnews/1996/3-22-1996/pollen.html
Description: How many common vegetables accomplish pollination and fertilization.
What’s It Like Where You Live? (student resource)
URL: http://mbgnet.mobot.org/
Description: Find out about the biomes and ecosystems in our world.
Wonderwise: Women in Science Learning Series (student and teacher resource)
URL: http://wonderwise.unl.edu/
Description: Introduces you to women who have made science their career. You can take several field trips, including space geology, African plant exploration, and urban ecology.
Monday, February 8, 2010
HIV/Sexual Health
BAM - Body and Mind
http://www.bam.gov/sub_yourbody/yourbody_bodysmartz.html>
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This is a puberty section of a great website by the Centers for Disease Control. It gives the basics about why the body changes during puberty and provides Q & A, and further resources.
Strengths:
• there is a great interactive quiz that helps to get rid of misconceptions and has interesting factoids that make this embarrassing topic (to kids) a bit more fascinating.
Weaknesses:
• this website has a ton of information, but it is not all about sexual health. This could prove a distraction if not monitored or scaffolded with the kids.
• there are no real photos or images of real people, the whole site is animation or cartoons. This seems to not give kids accurate information.
Youth Embassy
http://www.youthembassy.com/default.asp
Grade Level: 4th-6th
Youth Embassy provides honest information and advice to youth and teens. This site provides access to science-based, realistic responses to questions regarding sexuality, health and human development.
Strengths:
• this sit covers a vast amount of information on sexual health and HIV in a very direct and uninhibited way, this site is almost exclusively about sexual health
• there are also great resources for parents, Spanish speakers and continued learning
Weaknesses:
• this website is designed for kids with higher reading skills, it just lumps text in paragraphs and is not very interactive or interesting
KidsHealth - Puberty & HIV/AIDS
http://kidshealth.org/kid/grow/body_stuff/puberty.html
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site provides kid-friendly discussions to questions that might be embarrassing to some. It is a wealth of information and further resources for kids to continue to learn about their bodies. The search feature will lead you to all information about sexuality and STD's.
Strengths:
• this site is designed for both English and Spanish speakers
• this site is also organized for either kids, teens or parents to choose the amount or type of information they need.
Weaknesses:
• I don't like how all the imagery are cartoons, that is not something kids can relate to and take seriously
HealthyChildren.orgS
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/puberty/Pages/default.aspx
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This is a website run by pediatricians and is a dense site, but with some scaffolding, could be used by students.
Strengths:
• this website was created by pediatricians, so the information is very accurate
Weaknesses:
• this website is more designed for adults, with articles and vast amounts of text to read
GirlsHealth.gov
http://www.girlshealth.gov/body/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site includes information targeted specifically for girls and women.
Strengths:
• this site is designed for a female audience only, this may help girls feel more comfortable an not alone with their questions
Weaknesses:
• this site pushes abstinence only and does not do a good job educating girls what safe sex is
http://www.bam.gov/sub_yourbody/yourbody_bodysmartz.html>
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This is a puberty section of a great website by the Centers for Disease Control. It gives the basics about why the body changes during puberty and provides Q & A, and further resources.
Strengths:
• there is a great interactive quiz that helps to get rid of misconceptions and has interesting factoids that make this embarrassing topic (to kids) a bit more fascinating.
Weaknesses:
• this website has a ton of information, but it is not all about sexual health. This could prove a distraction if not monitored or scaffolded with the kids.
• there are no real photos or images of real people, the whole site is animation or cartoons. This seems to not give kids accurate information.
Youth Embassy
http://www.youthembassy.com/default.asp
Grade Level: 4th-6th
Youth Embassy provides honest information and advice to youth and teens. This site provides access to science-based, realistic responses to questions regarding sexuality, health and human development.
Strengths:
• this sit covers a vast amount of information on sexual health and HIV in a very direct and uninhibited way, this site is almost exclusively about sexual health
• there are also great resources for parents, Spanish speakers and continued learning
Weaknesses:
• this website is designed for kids with higher reading skills, it just lumps text in paragraphs and is not very interactive or interesting
KidsHealth - Puberty & HIV/AIDS
http://kidshealth.org/kid/grow/body_stuff/puberty.html
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site provides kid-friendly discussions to questions that might be embarrassing to some. It is a wealth of information and further resources for kids to continue to learn about their bodies. The search feature will lead you to all information about sexuality and STD's.
Strengths:
• this site is designed for both English and Spanish speakers
• this site is also organized for either kids, teens or parents to choose the amount or type of information they need.
Weaknesses:
• I don't like how all the imagery are cartoons, that is not something kids can relate to and take seriously
HealthyChildren.orgS
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/puberty/Pages/default.aspx
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This is a website run by pediatricians and is a dense site, but with some scaffolding, could be used by students.
Strengths:
• this website was created by pediatricians, so the information is very accurate
Weaknesses:
• this website is more designed for adults, with articles and vast amounts of text to read
GirlsHealth.gov
http://www.girlshealth.gov/body/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site includes information targeted specifically for girls and women.
Strengths:
• this site is designed for a female audience only, this may help girls feel more comfortable an not alone with their questions
Weaknesses:
• this site pushes abstinence only and does not do a good job educating girls what safe sex is
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Space Science Websites
Sungazer
http://www.sungazer.net/index.html
Grade Level: 4th-6th
You can't usually stare at the sun, but here, you can. This site provides several ways to see the sun close up. Includes images, equipment needed, resources, and podcasts
Strengths:
• great high-res photos to bring space and the sun into a more realistic scope
• allows kids to see what it takes to be a scientist and research space, with details about equipment and other resources to further learning
Weaknesses:
• this site is narrowly focused on the sun and solar energy
• the should have more information about what is being shown
Cool Cosmos
http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
Learn about infrared light through fun games, cool movies, images, and more. Classroom activities and a Spanish-language version of the site are also available. You'll need the free Flash plug-in to access the Flash version of the site. HTML version also available.
Strengths:
• this site will take up tons of time if you want it to, it holds lots of interesting information and things to do for kids.
• there is a great "ask an astronomer for kids" section that answers a ton of common questions about space
Weaknesses:
• this site is not directly about space, but about inferred light
Hubble Telescope: Black Holes
http://hubblesite.org/explore_astronomy/black_holes/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
Take an interactive voyage into the universe of black holes with the folks who operate the Hubble Space Telescope.
Strengths:
• this is a great interactive site that allows students to explore space, and specifically black holes
Weaknesses:
• te language in this site is a bit advanced but younger kids could still play with the games and searching tools
The Space Place
http://spaceplace.jpl.nasa.gov/en/kids/index.shtml
Grade Level: K-6th
This NASA site offers information and activities about the upcoming deep space probe missions.
Strengths:
• this site has tons to do for young kids as well as older students who need information for research, etc.
Weaknesses:
• It is bothersome that this site uses almost all animated imagery rather than real photos of elements in space
Window to the Universe
http://www.windows.ucar.edu/
Grade Level: 3rd-6th
Attractively presented and very informative--this site provides an introduction to the Universe. Topics include, "Our Planet," "Space Missions," "Our Solar System," "People," and much more.
Strengths:
• this site is very well organized and easy to find information on specific aspects of the solar system and space science
• this site is in both english and spanish and you can select what level of information you want, beginner, intermediate or advanced
Weaknesses:
• there are many places for kids to click off the site which could prove a distraction and be confusing
http://www.sungazer.net/index.html
Grade Level: 4th-6th
You can't usually stare at the sun, but here, you can. This site provides several ways to see the sun close up. Includes images, equipment needed, resources, and podcasts
Strengths:
• great high-res photos to bring space and the sun into a more realistic scope
• allows kids to see what it takes to be a scientist and research space, with details about equipment and other resources to further learning
Weaknesses:
• this site is narrowly focused on the sun and solar energy
• the should have more information about what is being shown
Cool Cosmos
http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
Learn about infrared light through fun games, cool movies, images, and more. Classroom activities and a Spanish-language version of the site are also available. You'll need the free Flash plug-in to access the Flash version of the site. HTML version also available.
Strengths:
• this site will take up tons of time if you want it to, it holds lots of interesting information and things to do for kids.
• there is a great "ask an astronomer for kids" section that answers a ton of common questions about space
Weaknesses:
• this site is not directly about space, but about inferred light
Hubble Telescope: Black Holes
http://hubblesite.org/explore_astronomy/black_holes/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
Take an interactive voyage into the universe of black holes with the folks who operate the Hubble Space Telescope.
Strengths:
• this is a great interactive site that allows students to explore space, and specifically black holes
Weaknesses:
• te language in this site is a bit advanced but younger kids could still play with the games and searching tools
The Space Place
http://spaceplace.jpl.nasa.gov/en/kids/index.shtml
Grade Level: K-6th
This NASA site offers information and activities about the upcoming deep space probe missions.
Strengths:
• this site has tons to do for young kids as well as older students who need information for research, etc.
Weaknesses:
• It is bothersome that this site uses almost all animated imagery rather than real photos of elements in space
Window to the Universe
http://www.windows.ucar.edu/
Grade Level: 3rd-6th
Attractively presented and very informative--this site provides an introduction to the Universe. Topics include, "Our Planet," "Space Missions," "Our Solar System," "People," and much more.
Strengths:
• this site is very well organized and easy to find information on specific aspects of the solar system and space science
• this site is in both english and spanish and you can select what level of information you want, beginner, intermediate or advanced
Weaknesses:
• there are many places for kids to click off the site which could prove a distraction and be confusing
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Earth Science Websites
American Museum of Natural History presents Ology - Earth
http://www.amnh.org/ology/index.php?channel=earth
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site is a great kid friendly way for kids to learn about Earth science. It includes experiments, interviews with real scientists, games, book lists, and much more.
Strengths:
• I love that this site is fine for kids to roam and explore. No ads or off shoots onto other non-kid friendly sites.
Weaknesses:
• There are other Ology sites attached to this one. All are kid friendly, but they don't stay in the realm of Earth Science. The other Ology sites include anthropology, archeology, astronomy, biodiversity, Einstein, genetics, marine biology, paleontology, water and zoology.
SIO's Volcano Expedition
http://www.sio.ucsd.edu/volcano/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
Follow scientists on an exciting volcano research expedition to Central America! This well-organized site explains how volcanoes work and offers images of volcanoes, the research exhibition, and the scientists. You can browse the volcano Q&A section or submit your own questions.
Strengths:
• This could be great for students to 'conduct research' about volcanos or what an expedition is and who needs to be involved for it to be successful. It includes journal entries from the scientists and great bite-sized information about many aspects of volcanoes and what it takes to learn more about them.
Weaknesses:
• This expedition was completed in Jan 2001 so its a little 'old.' The process is still relevant, but there have been not many updates since then.
Dive and Discover: Expeditions to the Seafloor
http://www.divediscover.whoi.edu/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
Join ("virtually") an expedition in the eastern Pacific Ocean to look for new volcanic eruptions on the crest of the mid-ocean ridge. You can read the daily updates by the crew, watch a movie of a volcanic seafloor, and learn about topics from vent biology to the earth's anatomy in the "infomods."
Strengths:
• This site has many explorations that have taken place and lots of detailed data and information that helps kids learn in-depth about various aspects of Oceanography.
Weaknesses:
• The level of writing and information is quite advanced. I don't foresee many kids below 4th grade being able to utilize this site for research, etc. So it limits it audience a bit.
Earthweek
http://www.earthweek.com/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site provides up to date information on Environmental issues from around the world. Though it is dense with info, it is well organized and has some good visual elements to help the younger kids navigate. This would be a great site for kids to conduct research.
Strengths:
• It has a great world map to help see perspective and context for changes to our Earth such as earthquakes and cyclones.
Weaknesses:
• This site does have some small adds on it which, combined with all the text, makes for a very full home page.
Air Quality Index for Kids
http://airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=aqikids.index
Grade Level: 3rd-6th
Learn how air pollution is measured, about the Air Quality Index (AQI), and how the index can be a quick way to tell people how good or bad something is. The AQI uses colors, and numbers, and words to tell you about the air.
Strengths:
• This site is simple and organized. It provides the basics for kids to get an idea about air pollution and what they can do about it.
Weaknesses:
• This site is a bit too hard for younger kids to use it.
http://www.amnh.org/ology/index.php?channel=earth
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site is a great kid friendly way for kids to learn about Earth science. It includes experiments, interviews with real scientists, games, book lists, and much more.
Strengths:
• I love that this site is fine for kids to roam and explore. No ads or off shoots onto other non-kid friendly sites.
Weaknesses:
• There are other Ology sites attached to this one. All are kid friendly, but they don't stay in the realm of Earth Science. The other Ology sites include anthropology, archeology, astronomy, biodiversity, Einstein, genetics, marine biology, paleontology, water and zoology.
SIO's Volcano Expedition
http://www.sio.ucsd.edu/volcano/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
Follow scientists on an exciting volcano research expedition to Central America! This well-organized site explains how volcanoes work and offers images of volcanoes, the research exhibition, and the scientists. You can browse the volcano Q&A section or submit your own questions.
Strengths:
• This could be great for students to 'conduct research' about volcanos or what an expedition is and who needs to be involved for it to be successful. It includes journal entries from the scientists and great bite-sized information about many aspects of volcanoes and what it takes to learn more about them.
Weaknesses:
• This expedition was completed in Jan 2001 so its a little 'old.' The process is still relevant, but there have been not many updates since then.
Dive and Discover: Expeditions to the Seafloor
http://www.divediscover.whoi.edu/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
Join ("virtually") an expedition in the eastern Pacific Ocean to look for new volcanic eruptions on the crest of the mid-ocean ridge. You can read the daily updates by the crew, watch a movie of a volcanic seafloor, and learn about topics from vent biology to the earth's anatomy in the "infomods."
Strengths:
• This site has many explorations that have taken place and lots of detailed data and information that helps kids learn in-depth about various aspects of Oceanography.
Weaknesses:
• The level of writing and information is quite advanced. I don't foresee many kids below 4th grade being able to utilize this site for research, etc. So it limits it audience a bit.
Earthweek
http://www.earthweek.com/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site provides up to date information on Environmental issues from around the world. Though it is dense with info, it is well organized and has some good visual elements to help the younger kids navigate. This would be a great site for kids to conduct research.
Strengths:
• It has a great world map to help see perspective and context for changes to our Earth such as earthquakes and cyclones.
Weaknesses:
• This site does have some small adds on it which, combined with all the text, makes for a very full home page.
Air Quality Index for Kids
http://airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=aqikids.index
Grade Level: 3rd-6th
Learn how air pollution is measured, about the Air Quality Index (AQI), and how the index can be a quick way to tell people how good or bad something is. The AQI uses colors, and numbers, and words to tell you about the air.
Strengths:
• This site is simple and organized. It provides the basics for kids to get an idea about air pollution and what they can do about it.
Weaknesses:
• This site is a bit too hard for younger kids to use it.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Physical Science Websites
Chemistry 4 Kids
http://www.chem4kids.com/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site is a great kid friendly way for kids to learn about basic chemistry info as well as the scientific process and research. It has great diagrams and breaks hard concepts down.
Strengths:
• This site holds tons of information about complicated chemistry concepts but in some-what kid friendly language.
• This would be a great place to send kids to do research
Weaknesses:
• There are ads by Google on the site that take away from its content, but nothing inappropriate. They mostly confuse the visual organization of the site
Emilio Segrè Visual Archives
http://photos.aip.org/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site has a collection of more than 30,000 historical images of scientists and their work.
Strengths:
• This could be great for students to 'conduct research' about a scientist or period of scientific history
Weaknesses:
• This site does not offer information about the scientists other than a quote.
About Sound
http://www.silcom.com/~aludwig/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site includes masses of information on the basics of sound, music and the human ear, acoustics, the physics of sound and music room design.
Strengths:
• This site has quite a bit of in-depth information about sound, hearing, and acoustics.
• The information seems to be geared towards musicians and music lovers in being able to enhance a listening experience.
Weaknesses:
• The level of writing and information is quite advanced. I don't foresee many kids below 4th grade being able to utilize this site for research, etc. So it limits it audience a bit.
Molecularium
http://www.molecularium.com/kidsite.html
Grade Level: K-6th
What lives in the nano world? You'll find out here through interactive activities, a gallery, and more! By Rensselaer’s Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center for Directed Assembly of Nanostructures. You'll need the free Flash Player.
Strengths:
• This site is very interactive and great for all ages
• It has good music/sounds, tons of colors and fun characters.
Weaknesses:
• This isn't a ton to do, kids can build, zoom in to and transform molecules.
EdHeads: Activate your Mind!
http://www.edheads.org/activities/simple-machines/
Grade Level: K-3rd
Within this site is the Simple Machines Activity. Here, kids can learn about simple and compound machines while they explore the House and Tool Shed! Plus there are lots of other activities to do also.
Strengths:
• There are quizzes and searches for simple machines within everyday surroundings, such as the bedroom and kitchen. It seems very accessible for all students
• It also talks about compound machines and how to identify them
Weaknesses:
• This section is a little hard to find, because it is buried within a general site of educational activities for the classroom.
http://www.chem4kids.com/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site is a great kid friendly way for kids to learn about basic chemistry info as well as the scientific process and research. It has great diagrams and breaks hard concepts down.
Strengths:
• This site holds tons of information about complicated chemistry concepts but in some-what kid friendly language.
• This would be a great place to send kids to do research
Weaknesses:
• There are ads by Google on the site that take away from its content, but nothing inappropriate. They mostly confuse the visual organization of the site
Emilio Segrè Visual Archives
http://photos.aip.org/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site has a collection of more than 30,000 historical images of scientists and their work.
Strengths:
• This could be great for students to 'conduct research' about a scientist or period of scientific history
Weaknesses:
• This site does not offer information about the scientists other than a quote.
About Sound
http://www.silcom.com/~aludwig/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site includes masses of information on the basics of sound, music and the human ear, acoustics, the physics of sound and music room design.
Strengths:
• This site has quite a bit of in-depth information about sound, hearing, and acoustics.
• The information seems to be geared towards musicians and music lovers in being able to enhance a listening experience.
Weaknesses:
• The level of writing and information is quite advanced. I don't foresee many kids below 4th grade being able to utilize this site for research, etc. So it limits it audience a bit.
Molecularium
http://www.molecularium.com/kidsite.html
Grade Level: K-6th
What lives in the nano world? You'll find out here through interactive activities, a gallery, and more! By Rensselaer’s Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center for Directed Assembly of Nanostructures. You'll need the free Flash Player.
Strengths:
• This site is very interactive and great for all ages
• It has good music/sounds, tons of colors and fun characters.
Weaknesses:
• This isn't a ton to do, kids can build, zoom in to and transform molecules.
EdHeads: Activate your Mind!
http://www.edheads.org/activities/simple-machines/
Grade Level: K-3rd
Within this site is the Simple Machines Activity. Here, kids can learn about simple and compound machines while they explore the House and Tool Shed! Plus there are lots of other activities to do also.
Strengths:
• There are quizzes and searches for simple machines within everyday surroundings, such as the bedroom and kitchen. It seems very accessible for all students
• It also talks about compound machines and how to identify them
Weaknesses:
• This section is a little hard to find, because it is buried within a general site of educational activities for the classroom.
Life Science Website Links
What is Life Science?
http://schoolscience.rice.edu/duker/life/lifesciintro.html
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site was created by an elementary school. It provides a good overview of what life science is and some basic history and scientific thinking.
Strengths:
• If students click on any link it will still be a kid friendly site.
• The information is visually organized and not confusing.
Weaknesses:
• There is very little to do/see on this site, it is only information to read, so it is somewhat limited
Animal Cams from the Smithsonian Institute
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/WebCams/
Grade Level: K-6th
This site has a collection of cameras watching animals in their zoo with accompanying information and updates about the critters. Because of the visual nature of the cams any grade could use this site, but scaffolding may need to be provided in order to get to the the appropriate cam for the lower grades.
Strengths:
• This can help to provide real time visuals for animals students may never have heard of before.
• This could be great for students to 'conduct research' about an animal and track behavior that they see
Weaknesses:
• There is lots of other information about the animals and the zoo on this site. Kids could easily get lost in the text on this site and have a difficult time finding the cam they are looking for, I did!
• If students click on other links within this site, it is not that they are NOT kid-friendly, but it is more about the business of the museum and zoo than it is about animals
The National Science Foundation - The Secret Lives of Wild Animals
http://nsf.gov/news/special_reports/animals/index.jsp
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site features information on several animals (deer, ocelot & agouti, dragonflys, zebras and seals). The pages for each animal includes pictures, movies, maps and research/scientific information as well as tracking technology.
Strengths:
• This site shows active scientists and current research. Kids can truly be a part of the cutting edge!
Weaknesses:
• This site is not written for kids reading levels so some scaffolding would be needed for some kids to perhaps look for specific information rather than just gather information that they find.
Dep.'t of Agriculture Research Service
http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/kids/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site has kid friendly research articles that are written about a variety of topics. There is even a Spanish language version of the site! Overall it is a series of stories from scientists at the ARS about animals, aquaculture, cities, environment, farming, high tech, insects, microscopes, nutrition, plants, satellites, small towns, soil, the suburbs, test tubes, transportation, water and weird science.
Strengths:
• This site is fun for ketting kids interetsed in something science related. It seems to provide interesting 'stories' about real research but with lots of visuals and info for kids to follow along.
• I like how it is organized through pictures rather than words
Weaknesses:
• The major weakness is that it uses language that would be difficult for K-3rd graders
• It is not a site to look for specific information about a topic
Rader's Biology 4 Kids
http://www.biology4kids.com/index.html
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site is a great kid friendly way for kids to learn about basic biology info as well as the scientific process and research. It has great diagrams and breaks hard concepts down.
Strengths:
• This site holds tons of information about complicated biology but in some-what kid friendly language.
• This would be a great place to send kids to do research
Weaknesses:
• There are ads by Google on the site that take away from its content, but nothing inappropriate. They mostly confuse the visual organization of the site
Kid News
http://www.kindnews.org/
Grade Level: K-6th
This site focuses on human and animal relationships, specifically on being humane and helping animals who are being treated poorly.
Strengths:
• This site provides a way for kids to work towards a good cause and get other kids involved (community activism). It even includes a flyer maker.
• There is much to do for all ages, so through some of it is beyond the K-3 reading level, there are things that the little kids can do such as look at pictures and movies and play games.
Weaknesses:
• This site has more to do with animal cruelty than with life science, but it does hold some information about the animals it features.
http://schoolscience.rice.edu/duker/life/lifesciintro.html
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site was created by an elementary school. It provides a good overview of what life science is and some basic history and scientific thinking.
Strengths:
• If students click on any link it will still be a kid friendly site.
• The information is visually organized and not confusing.
Weaknesses:
• There is very little to do/see on this site, it is only information to read, so it is somewhat limited
Animal Cams from the Smithsonian Institute
http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/WebCams/
Grade Level: K-6th
This site has a collection of cameras watching animals in their zoo with accompanying information and updates about the critters. Because of the visual nature of the cams any grade could use this site, but scaffolding may need to be provided in order to get to the the appropriate cam for the lower grades.
Strengths:
• This can help to provide real time visuals for animals students may never have heard of before.
• This could be great for students to 'conduct research' about an animal and track behavior that they see
Weaknesses:
• There is lots of other information about the animals and the zoo on this site. Kids could easily get lost in the text on this site and have a difficult time finding the cam they are looking for, I did!
• If students click on other links within this site, it is not that they are NOT kid-friendly, but it is more about the business of the museum and zoo than it is about animals
The National Science Foundation - The Secret Lives of Wild Animals
http://nsf.gov/news/special_reports/animals/index.jsp
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site features information on several animals (deer, ocelot & agouti, dragonflys, zebras and seals). The pages for each animal includes pictures, movies, maps and research/scientific information as well as tracking technology.
Strengths:
• This site shows active scientists and current research. Kids can truly be a part of the cutting edge!
Weaknesses:
• This site is not written for kids reading levels so some scaffolding would be needed for some kids to perhaps look for specific information rather than just gather information that they find.
Dep.'t of Agriculture Research Service
http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/kids/
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site has kid friendly research articles that are written about a variety of topics. There is even a Spanish language version of the site! Overall it is a series of stories from scientists at the ARS about animals, aquaculture, cities, environment, farming, high tech, insects, microscopes, nutrition, plants, satellites, small towns, soil, the suburbs, test tubes, transportation, water and weird science.
Strengths:
• This site is fun for ketting kids interetsed in something science related. It seems to provide interesting 'stories' about real research but with lots of visuals and info for kids to follow along.
• I like how it is organized through pictures rather than words
Weaknesses:
• The major weakness is that it uses language that would be difficult for K-3rd graders
• It is not a site to look for specific information about a topic
Rader's Biology 4 Kids
http://www.biology4kids.com/index.html
Grade Level: 4th-6th
This site is a great kid friendly way for kids to learn about basic biology info as well as the scientific process and research. It has great diagrams and breaks hard concepts down.
Strengths:
• This site holds tons of information about complicated biology but in some-what kid friendly language.
• This would be a great place to send kids to do research
Weaknesses:
• There are ads by Google on the site that take away from its content, but nothing inappropriate. They mostly confuse the visual organization of the site
Kid News
http://www.kindnews.org/
Grade Level: K-6th
This site focuses on human and animal relationships, specifically on being humane and helping animals who are being treated poorly.
Strengths:
• This site provides a way for kids to work towards a good cause and get other kids involved (community activism). It even includes a flyer maker.
• There is much to do for all ages, so through some of it is beyond the K-3 reading level, there are things that the little kids can do such as look at pictures and movies and play games.
Weaknesses:
• This site has more to do with animal cruelty than with life science, but it does hold some information about the animals it features.
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