In this lesson, one of a multi-part unit from Illuminations, students estimate the area of the country that voted for the Republican candidate and the area that voted for the Democratic candidate in the 2000 presidential election using a grid overlay. Students then compare the areas to the electoral and popular vote election results. Ratios of electoral votes to area are used to make generalizations about the population distribution of the United States. Grade: 6 | 7 | 8
In this Illuminations lesson, students are given the opportunity to explore surface area in the same way that a contractor might when providing an estimate to a potential customer. Once the customer accepts the estimate, a more detailed measurement is taken and a quote prepared. Grade: 6 | 7 | 8
In this Illuminations lesson, students use a clinometer (a measuring device built from a protractor) and isosceles right triangles to find the height of a building. The class compares measurements, talks about the variation in their results, and selects the best measure of central tendency to report the most accurate height.
This lesson, one of a multi-part unit from Illuminations, introduces relationships between measurement and geometry. The activities build on students' prior knowledge as they work with partners and as a whole class to list, group, label, and write to present their understanding.
Learn how to use the sun and a clock to determine longitude in this interactive game.
In this Science NetLinks lesson, students are introduced to the concept of units of measurement. Students first measure with the idea of units in mind and are then challenged to consider why it is important to have standardized units of measurement. Then they measure with standardized units and compare results with one another.
Explore the science of dendochronology by assembling a tree-ring chronology in this interactive online activity.
Model the relationship between Earth and the Moon, and scale distances within and beyond our solar system.
Discover how scientists measure continental movement. Understand the importance of critically examining hypotheses or statements represented as scientific.
Predict how much of the air is oxygen and then test the prediction by determining the volume of oxygen in air within a test tube. Estimate the amount of oxygen at the summit of Mt. Everest and defend the reasoning.
Define the metric system, explore its advantages and disadvantages and explain why the U.S. doesn't use it. Convert measurements into metrics using a chart or formula.
Examine how volcanic eruptions are measured using an eruption magnitude scale called the Volcanis Explosivity Index and practice rating a volcanic eruption in this online interactive activity.
Understand that soil is made up of inorganic and organic particles and that the structure of soil is determined by the arrangement of these particles. Experiment with different soil structures and the ability of each to carry a specific load.
Solve various problems related to John Glenn's first ride into space, and complete calculations involving velocity, distance and time. Calculate the height a satellite would need to be to keep to a geosynchronous orbit.
Calculate area using acres and rods. Make comparisons using different units of measurements, and apply them to questions dealing with farms and agriculture.