Students use the topic of sunscreen to explore the "issues related to size and scale" as energy and matter interact. They compare the visible opacity of different substances to their ability to block ultraviolet radiation.

Do we really need sunscreen? What are the risks of tanning? Learners explore these questions through a series of informational texts and engaging, hands-on activities.

Twelfth graders use a microcomputer connected to an ultra-violet sensor to compare the relative blocking power of different SPF sunscreens for the UVB region of the solar spectrum.

This is a terrific resource for practicing the scientific method or for examining the claims of different sunscreens when learning about electromagnetic radiation. You may have to improvise, however, as it was written to accompany a...

Students compare the perceived and actual risks of getting skin cancer, while looking at ways to minimize these risks. They may have very little grasp of the severity of the threat of skin cancer or be unaware of the increase in the...

What are the essentials needed for a backpacking trip? What does minimum impact mean? What are some general safety tips? These are the things to think about when planning a backpacking trip. This lesson has handouts included for...

Go backpacking on Mt. Rainier! Use this backpacking lesson as the culminating activity of the unit. The class puts all that they have learned to practice in this three day trip to one of the most beautiful mountains in the U.S. There are...

Students explore the food pyramid. In this dietary health lesson, students examine the food pyramid on the MyPyramid.gov website and discuss healthy eating strategies. There are various links to websites in this lesson.

Learners consider products that provide protection from sunburn and other negative effects of the sun's ultraviolet rays. They develop or improve upon sun-screening products that are meant to provide protection for populations at risk...

Students examine the vocabulary and objects associated with objects in the sky and weather. They observe the sky outside of their classroom and create a list of things in the sky. Students then analyze a poster, read and discuss key...

Fourth graders investigate where Oklahoma's variety of crops are harvested, and grown their own plants. A printable map and crop information guide are provided.

Young scholars participate in an environmental clean-up activity. In this environmental lesson, students travel to a local beach. Working in small teams, young scholars collect trash from the local beach. Returning to school, students...

Students explore Ultraviolet detecting beads and conduct several investigations with them.  In this investigative lesson students participate in an experiment to see the harmful effects of UV light and discuss their findings. 

Students discuss the items needed to camp outside. They identify objects in a backpack and tell what the item could be used for. They hide the objects throughout the room and they are to find them.

Students research characteristics of different body parts. Students design and sketch a prosthetic they developed. They share their idea with the class and complete a worksheet.

Students identify how humans, fish, plants, birds, insects and other wildlife benefit from wetland environments. They observe a wetland and its inhabitants, draw a migration map that represents how birds use wetlands in traveling long...

Inspired by "Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen)," this lesson asks students to think about memorable writing--writing that has, in some way, touched them personally. Students will make multiple drafts of simple advice in order to make...