Science
Number of unique resources found: 156
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– General Information –
4000 Years of Women in Science
Description: Women are and always have been scientists. This site profiles over 100 women from our scientific and technical past. Plus there are marvelous links to other sites on women in science.
Description: Information on acid rain, plus an experiment on determining pH and how it relates to acid rain.
Description: An extensive study of East African Primates including pictures and audio samples.
Afro-American Science, Math, Literature and Cultural Resources 
Author: CYFERnet Program Editors, (12 more by this author)
Description: Afro-Americans have contributed greatly to the knowledge and well-being of our nature. Here is a selection to enable you to explore the science, engineering and cultural contributions. In honor of Coretta Scott King's effort to promote peace, non-violent social change, brotherhood and literature, check out these online resources on African American history and issues, as well as a selection of literary works for sharing with children and young people (check for these at your public library).
Description: Collect solar system trading cards; view the birth, life and death of a star; or discover the wonders of space history from Galileo to the Hubble Space Telescope. Amazing Space offers great on-line activities for 3-12 graders complete with lesson plans.
Description: Explore this on-line site of animals from Busch Gardens..
Description: Have you ever asked yourself a question about volcanoes, earthquakes, glaciers, maps or rivers? Why not ask a geologist for an answer. Another great resource for earth science projects!
Association of Science-Technology Centers
Description: The Association of Science-Technology Centers Incorporated (ASTC) is an organization of science centers and museums dedicated to furthering the public understanding of science.
Bats, A Thematic Resource for Teachers and Students
Description: Here is a thematic web page on the only flying mammal for K -12 graders and educators. This site offers both resources and interactive pages
Description: Bill Nye the Science Guy brings science to you via a great web site.
Description: This site offers information on the chemistry of biology, how the world of biology is studied, and cell structure and function.
Description: Celebrate your brain. This site features a calendar of events, information, resources, education materials and more all on the human brain!
Description: What is so fascinating about bubbles? The precise spherical shape, the incredibly fragile nature of the microscopically thin soap film, the beautiful colors that swirl and shimmer, or most likely, a combination of all these phenomena? Why does a bubble form a sphere at all? Why not a cube, tetrahedron, or other geometrical figure? Look here for the forces that mold bubbles. Topics on at this site include: Sticky Water, The Shape of Bubbles, When Bubble Meets Bubble, Soap, Bubble Colors, Bubble Formulae, Bubbliography, and Internet Resources.
Description: This colorful version of the periodic table is easy to navigate through. The atomic number, weight, and volume; and Density of each element is given, plus much more!
Description: CHEMystery is a virtual chemistry textbook, to provide an interactive guide for high school chemistry students. In addition, CHEMystery allows you to further expand your chemistry knowledge by letting you interact with other Internet resources on the World Wide Web.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Description: Zoos are changing. Once simple menageries, today's zoological parks are centers for conservation. Wander through the Cincinnati Zoo on-line. You'll find more than an introduction to the Zoo. You'll find new connections to the world of nature, and on-line activities.
Description: Dedicated to the study, appreciation, and conservation of birds, this page provides a wealth of information including Bird Notes newsletter, slide and sound library, and several conservation programs.
Description: This site is for educators to learn about using the Discovery and Learning Channels in the classroom. Excellent science related topics are featured.
Description: Earthforces are constantly at work - on the core, the crust and the water. Explore these forces and additional links to related sites
Description: Newton’s Apple Earthquake, a teachers guide and video answers all your earthquake questions of why, what where and how.
Description: Anything and everything on Mr. Relativity, from general information and Einstein's own words to quotes and pictures
Description: NOAA's information on the El Nino effect.
Electronic Jounal of Science Education
Description: A peer reviewed online journal of science education. Includes a wide variety of topics and abstracts for review.
Description: For educators planning a project on energy, this is the site to explore. The California Energy Commissions Energy Quest offers information on all forms of energy, energy science projects, energy patrols and much more.
Description: The number of girls engaging in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) is growing, but they are not choosing STEM careers at a consistent rate. The gap may lie in whether they engage in science at an early age and whether they continue their engagement and interest as they move through the formal school system. The resources linked are strategies for engagement, model programs and curricula that support girls learning science in in-formal settings.
Entomology for Kids and Teachers
Description: Build an observation hive of honey bees to discover the bees world. Adult supervision required. This site offers the how to's of construction.
Entomology for Kids and Teachers
Description: A great site for young people interested in entomology. Gather information and activities on a variety of bugs! Site includes Kentucky 4-H Entomology Project, Units I, II, and III.
Description: How much do you know about the environment? Do you want to test your knowledge? Or maybe just have some fun! Check out this site and you'll find exciting games that can teach you more about the environment.
Description: The Exploratorium offers science activities, on-line exhibits and much more for all ages.
Description: Explore this site to learn about this fascinating scientist, inventor and artist. Leonardo da Vinci creatively applied the scientific method in every aspect of life.
Extension, Science, Engineering, & Technology (ESET)
Description: This is the place for you if you're interested in science and technology education for youth! Explore this site to find science activities, educator workshops and links to other resources.
Description: This site explores agricultural aspects of genetic engineering. Learn about transgenic crops, how genes are moved, and what happens to the bugs!
Description: Look at the challenge of flight, from the Wright brothers' first flight to the transatlantic flight of Alcock and Brown. Then see what you can create and fly!
Description: Newton’s Apple Floods Teacher Guide and Video features historical floods, addresses how floods occurs and possible controls to avert future flooding.
Description: View over 80 separate maps of the world's forest cover and learn about deforestation. The site, sponsored by the World Wildlife Fund, offers ways in which youth can take action to protect the world's forests.
Description: Looking for an understandable explanation for the 'EL Nino' effect? Franklin's Forecast has it, along with information and activities on weather stations, resources, events and satellites; radar; and lightning.
Description: Discover the unique alliance between fungus and an alga. This natural cooperation allows for the lichen's survival.
Garbage, How Can My Community Reduce Waste?
Description: Designed for students, teachers, and anyone who regularly takes out the trash, this site demonstrates what actually happens to the solid waste and sewage produced by individuals and industry around the world.
Growing Healthy Kids and Families through School-Based Junior Master Gardener Programs
Author: Whittlesey, Lisa; Karin Wallace
Description: A garden can be good for the mind, body, and soul! Cultivate an awareness of how gardening can be used as a tool to educate limited-resource children and families about the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle. Using the Junior Master Gardener program as a platform, participants will learn to build sustainable school or community gardens that integrate academic learning, foster positive partnerships with volunteer groups, and evaluate program outcomes.
Description: Learn all about raptors and monitoring their environment.
Illinois State Museum Exhibits
Description: These on-line exhibit offer a wealth of information on the Ice Ages, fossils and the Midwestern U.S. 16,000 years ago.
Description: The giant squid lives in most of the world's oceans and is among the biggest animals in the sea but it is rarely seen. What "teuthologists", squid scientists do know about the giant squid is all here at this site.
Description: Here is a resource for people interested in invention and innovation. Learn more about American inventors and their discoveries. The featured inventor changes weekly, but an index of past featured inventors is available.
Description: Commemorate John Muir Day each April 21 with students. Here is a class study guide to take you on the John Muir journey.
Description: The National Gardening Association (NGA) is committed to providing quality resources, services, networking opportunities, and professional experiences to help educators use plants as a springboard for exploring life science concepts; developing inquiry and problem solving skills in youth; promoting teamwork and collaboration; and cultivating environmental awareness and responsibility. NGA offers on-line the following opportunities: Kids Growing Dutch Bulb Program; GrowLab Indoor Garden-Based Science Program; Youth Garden Grant Program; and Growing Science Inquiry Professional Development Program.
Description: View a life size King Cobra on-line, while exploring the physical traits and habitat of this magnificent reptile.
Description: Newton’s Apple Lightening Teacher Guide and Video explains the science of lightening through a simple static electricity activity and interesting video.
Description: Discover the interconnectedness of living things. Curriculum is divided into four units: Individuals, Families, Neighborhoods, and The Circle of Life.
Description: Do you know what a Cenote (say-no-tay) is and how it is formed? Find the answers here and experiment creating your own Cenote. This site highlights science activities and information related to ancient and modern Maya culture.
Description: This on-line exhibit offers information and activities for all ages on how our brain functions and our memory.
Description: This unique site, geared to youth and educators, provides information on biomes of the world, freshwater and marine ecosystems. It is an excellent source of information for youth during science activities related to the three main topics.
Description: An Aeronautics and Space Resource for Educators.
Description: Select from environmental stewardship, and science and technology curricula reviewed and approved by the National 4-H Curricula Jury.
Description: Explore this Smithsonian Institution museum for a diverse collection of air and space exhibits.
Description: This web-site is designed to inform and aid people in celebrating National Get Outdoors Day. Featuring, news, project ideas, contact information, this site is a great resource for After school educators.
National Inventors Hall of Fame
Description: Search on-line for inventors and their inventions.
National Recreation and Parks Association
Description: National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) webiste provide quality information on topics related to recreation and health. the NRPA mission is: "To advance parks, recreation and environmental conservation efforts that enhance the quality of life for all people."
Description: Tour the National Zoo via this web site. See animals, plants, photos, movies and much more.
Description: We answer your science questions...Need we say more!
Description: NEWTON'S APPLE is filled with exciting new adventures and fascinating discoveries of science in the world around us. Here is a good resource for answering your science and technology questions.
Description: Explore Smithsonian's Ocean Planet on-line. After centuries of seafaring, we're only now beginning to plumb the workings of our watery planet. The deeper we go, the clearer it becomes that no matter who we are or where we live, we all have a hand--and a stake--in what happens in the seas.
Description: Newton’s Apple Oil Spill Teacher Guide and Video addresses past surface oil spills in Alaska.
Description: A great place to explore online science and technology and create your own.
PBS Teachers: Science & Technology
Description: PBS Teachers Science and Tech is designed to support science teachers K - 12 to bring science into the classroom where students can think critically and apply science principles to every day life. Every month a different area of science is spotlighted.
Description: Check out the extensive collection of just-released images and data from Jupiter.
Author: Horton, Robert
Description: The Rockets Away educational program teaches about the science of rocketry through the use of hands-on experiments, computer software and the building and launching of 2?liter bottle rockets.
Roller Coaster, Amusement Park Physics
Description: What makes a roller coaster move? The conversion of potential energy to kinetic energy will do the job! Come find out how.
Description: The American Association for the Advancement of Science offers resources and information for your science program. Categories include Web sites, Curriculum Connections, Internet Help, Discussion Board and Feature of the Month.
Skillathons for Science, Technology and Engineering
Author: Dunham, Trudy (5 more by this author); CYFERnet TEam
Description: Skillathons are challenging, non-competitive learning-by-doing-stations that engage youth in a realistic situation and task to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. How to develop a skillathon and sample skillathons.
Description: Begin making plans for this year's Space Day. See what took place on last year's Space Day and explore ideas for the next Space Day!
Description: This web site is designed to provide information and ideas for celebrating Space Day.
Author: CYFERNet Team, (14 more by this author); Jay Staker; Trudy Dunham
Description: Activities to learn about space science. Use your computer to view the same sky you'd see with the naked eye, binoculars or a telescope, including constellations, planets and nebulae, as well as landscapes and atmospheres. Experience outer space in 3D travel beyond our solar system, at any speed, at any moment in time and in any direction. Observe satellites crossing the skies.
Author: Whitlock, Laura
Description: A learning center for young astronomers offering on-line activities and information related to the solar system, universe, and other great space stuff! The activities are designed at two levels for elementary aged children.
Students for the Exploration and Development of Space
Description: SEDS is an independent, student-based organization which promotes the exploration and development of space. SEDS pursues this mission by educating people about the benefits of space, by supporting a network of interested students, by providing an opportunity for members to develop their leadership skills, and by inspiring people through involvement in space-related projects. SEDS believes in a space-faring civilization and that focusing the enthusiasm of young people is the key to our future in space
Description: Join the famous gothic family next door in fun activities about energy concepts, conservation, and transformation; electricity; and fossil fuels.
Description: Information, links and images about the "Northern Lights".
Description: USGS offers a guide for teaching about coastal wetlands. This site includes both educator information and activities for youth.
Description: Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE) is a worldwide network of students, educators and scientists working together to study and understand the global environment. Globe students use scientific processes and procedures to gather data on the atmosphere and climate, hydrology, biology and geology. The student make a core set of environmental observations at or near their school and report the data via t he Internet. Check out this site for training, ordering information and locations in your state.
Description: Help Detective Le Plant and his side kicks, Bud & Sprout, unlock the mysteries of plant life. Designed for elementary aged youth.
Description: The Heart, an on-line exploration aides in discovering the complexities of its development and structure. Also follow the blood through the blood vessels. The Heart offers things to do, see, hear and learn.
The National Arbor Day Foundation
Description: This site offers resource activities to teach youth about trees. Resources are suitable for elementary age youth in formal and non-formal settings.
Description: This site introduces acids and bases to elementary and middle school youth. Learn how a solution changes color, how to write secret messages and guess the pH level of household solutions. The pH Factor has activities on-line and to down load. It uses the concept ual frame work called the Seven E's: Excite, Explore, Explain, Expand, Extend, Exchange, and Examine.
Description: An exciting zoo visit for all ages features natural habitats of the Scripps Aviary, Gorilla Tropics, Pygmy Chimpanzees, Hippo Beach, Polar Bear Plunge, Panda Research Station, and much more.
The Tech Museum, Discover Online
Description: The online exhibits explore sciences and technologies changing our world today. Exhibits range from DNA to Mt. Everest; satellites to robots; and color to earthquakes.
Description: From outer space to cellular biology, from dinosaurs and dragon lizards to the statistics of political polling, this homepage is an electronic exploration of "the science behind the news."
Description: If you would not be forgotten, as soon as you are dead and rotten,either write things worth reading, or do things worth the writing. Ben Franklin. And, Ben Franklin has done both. Explore Franklin, the scientist and great inventor, and his many other contributions.
Description: The Thinking Fountain offers surprising, gross, funny, personal connections to science. It is a living card file full of ideas and activities. The goal is to encourage questioning and inquiry.
This Dynamic Earth, The Story of Plate Tectonics
Description: The emergence of the theory of plate tectonics started a revolution in the earth sciences. Theory or not, scientist know that, directly or indirectly, plate tectonics influence nearly all geological processes. Read this on-line publication from the USGS for a better understanding of the force beneath our feet.
Description: Twister provides activies, information and personal interviews on tornados.
Description: From Bill Nye the Science Guy here is a demonstration children can do to understand how tornados form.
University of California Museum of Paleontology
Description: The University of California Museum of Paleontology offers an on-line exploration of paleontology -- more than just fossils!
Description: The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory offers a weekly update on the island's volcanoes and related volcano topics.
Description: Explore how Antarctica's ice has preserved the past -- from Chernobyl to the Little Ice Age -- going back hundreds of thousands of years, and then see how the world's coastlines would recede if some or all of this ice were to melt. Also check out scores of astonishing facts about the White Continent, and what it's like to live and work there.
Description: Learn basic water science, plus how water is the life line of any community.
Weather World 2010 Online Guides
Description: WW2010 offers instructional resources on meteorology, remote sensing and reading maps along with projects and activities. The site is geared to high school and college but could also be used as a ssoure for those teaching younger students.
Description: Science activities that will catch the eye and mind of even the most indifferent student, from Eisenhower High Plains Consortium for Mathematics and Science at McREL
Description: The women of NASA interactive project showcases outstanding women who are enjoying successful. Site component include profiles and web chats. Log on and visit with these NASA scientists!
– Other Resources –
Urban Youth and Nature: Changing Lives, Transforming Communities!
Description: The amount of time young people spend in the outdoors has decreased significantly, research shows. This human cost of alienation affects not only youth, but it also shapes adults, families and communities. Never before has this been so true as for youth living in poverty and in dense urban communities. How do we reverse these trends and provide meaningful connections that last a lifetime? This 60-minute video presentation addresses disparities and provides critical insights into the importance of reconnecting urban youth with our natural environment.
What You Need to Know About the National Framework for K-12 Science Education Standards
Author: Staker, Jay (13 more by this author)
Description: The National Research Council (NRC) of the National Academies released A National Framework for K-12 Science Education Standards as the foundational work for the development of National Science Standards. What does that mean for 4-H? Staker provides an overview of the Framework and its three dimensions (Scientific and Engineering Practices, Crosscutting Concepts and Core Ideas) to help you understand what the Next Generation Science standards are and how you can apply them in your 4-H program work.
- More about "What You Need to Know About the National Framework for K-12 Science Education Standards"
– Professional Development –
4-H science, engineering, and technology (SET)
Author: Schmitt‐McQuitty, Lynn; Sharon Junge, Martin Smith, Richard Mahacek
Description: The 4-H Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) Initiative targets the K-12 youth science literacy problem in the U.S. by engaging youth in nonformal 4-H SET projects and programs. Strengthen your understanding of experiential and inquiry-based learning and learn how to use best practices and examples of 4-H SET programming.
Author: Sumner, Mark
Description: The objective of the 4-H Virtual Farm is to provide youth with an opportunity to learn basic agricultural concepts. The 4-H Virtual Farm takes visitors on a tour of the farming industry.
How the Children Learned to Save Water
Description: Without water, there would be no life on Earth. Water also affects our health, lifestyle, and economic well being. Using water wisely, as described in this book, helps to protect the quantity and quality of our water resources for ourselves and for future generations.
This water-conservation curriculum for Native American children (grades 3-5) was developed for, and in cooperation with, the Seneca Nation of Indians. In this book, the Seneca clan animals teach students how to use water wisely.
Mastering the Mystery: Food, Facts and Fun
Author: Dansby, Montreka; Travella Free
Description: Join the team of detectives on the mission to explore "the journey of food" through innovative and integrative school and community gardening programs. The webinar will highlight the benefits of gardening, curriculum connections, activities, technology tools, food and nutrition and related initiatives. Program directors, front line staff and trainers of afterschool and Out-of-School-Time (OST) programs this is a session for you! 21st CCLC, Parks and Recreation programs, Cooperative Extension, 4-H Youth Development, Boys and Girls Clubs, Y programs, etc. - if you want youth to get excited about healthy living and learn about the connection of food and gardening to science, join us for this session. Curricula, activities and the connection of gardening and nutrition to science learning and education standards will be provided.
Science Inquiry and Engineering Design Process:
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author); Lisa Regalla, Anne Stevenson
Description: How-to training videos on the Science Inquiry and Engineering Design processes, plus videos on 4-H Science, SciGirls resources, and tips to effectively implement strategies research have indicated enhance engagement and learning. Brought to you by CYFERnet, SciGirls and Minnesota 4-H, our goal is to enable nonformal youth educators to be both comfortable and effective in facilitating the science inquiry and engineering design process with youth. These brief videos showcase the training process with hands-on activities and tips to enhance the implementation. Site includes links to related resources to support your professional development and use of these processes in your STEM programming.
Author: Anderson, Kim (2 more by this author)
Description: A fact sheet containing rules for safe science experiments.
STEM-rich learning in Out-of-School-Time
Description: This archived webinar was sponsored by the CYFERnet SchoolAge Editorial Board in March 2013. Do you offer STEM learning activities in your out-of-school-time program? Or are you nervous about providing these activities? Does your staff know how to provide STEM-rich learning? Do you want to provide STEM-rich learning opportunities in your program or train your staff to provide STEM-rich learning opportunities? This webinar will focus on how to train staff, key components of STEM-rich learning and STEM curricula to use in out-of-school-time programs.
What's the Big Idea? Framing Science with Crosscutting Concepts
Author: Staker, Jay (13 more by this author); Bob Horton, Trudy Dunham
Description: How do you think about the world? What dimensions or concepts are most salient? Join Jay Staker and Bob Horton for an intriguing discussion of big ideas and crosscutting concepts, and the role they can play in what we observe, what we wonder about, and what we teach and learn. This webinar is a dialogue about the crosscutting concepts defined in the new "A Framework for K-12 Science" and their importance in informal science learning (and other disciplines as well!). Adding them to our teaching and facilitation can support content learning, as well as innovation, inquiry, and self-directed learning.
– Programming Resource –
4-H Cooperative Curriculum System
Description: 4-H Cooperative Curriculum System is the nationwide curriculum development system of the Cooperative Extension Service. Its mission is to provide high quality experientially based curriculum products to 4-H and other non-formal youth development organizations. Over 150 curriculum products are currently available.
Author: Wilson, Suzanne; Brenda Smith, University of Florida
Description: Science can be fun when you "Learn with LEGO's". In this hands-on workshop, participants will use the LEGO CAD program and LEGO Simple Machines project material to learn the basic principles of simple machine design and function. A true "Learn by Doing" project that can be used with youth ages 10 and up. This program not only teaches mechanical science, it also challenges youth to follow directions, work together, and use their imagination. "Let's play with LEGO's" will have a new meaning once you complete this workshop.
Author: Sumner, Mark
Description: The objective of the 4-H Virtual Farm is to provide youth with an opportunity to learn basic agricultural concepts. The 4-H Virtual Farm takes visitors on a tour of the farming industry.
Description: AGRICULTURE IN THE CLASSROOM is a grassroots program coordinated by the United States Department of Agriculture. Its goal is to help students gain a greater awareness of the role of agriculture in the economy and society, so that they may become citizens who support wise agricultural policies.
CANFIT- 99 Ways to Make Your After School Program Even HEALTHIER
Description: NEW! The 99 Ways Toolkit is an interactive booklet that provides everything from nutrition and fitness lesson plans to shopping menu tips to strategies to involve parents and community members -- all to help you make your after school program and your community healthier places for youth and families. --When it comes to improving the health of today’s youth, CANFIT is a leader in building community leadership and stimulating change at multiple levels, from individual behavior to public policy. Our unique approach to partnering with communities builds capacity and leadership, while helping to advance sustainable change in low income communities and communities of color.--
Engineering With Technology Tools
Author: Staker, Jay (13 more by this author); Kathleen Jamison
Description: The 4-H SET Mission Mandate creates an opportunity of awareness in staff and youth to learn SET using exciting computer technology tools. Engage youth in relevant, fun learning that focuses on the engineering process. The experiences include problem solving, communication, community service, and aesthetics. Come learn SketchUp, Alice, and West Point Bridge Design software and start engineering your program.
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author); Jay Staker
Description: Engineering is a fun job because you get to use your imagination to create things that don’t exist yet. Engineers use math and science skills to turn a drawing or an idea into reality. In the past century, engineers have changed everyone’s lives by bringing us electricity, mechanized farming, air travel, compact disks and much more. Here are some activities you can make, then use your imagination to create what doesn't yet exist.
Exploring Earth's Limited Resource: The World of Water
Author: Barnett, Cynthia
Description: One of the goals of the California 4-H Youth Development Program is to boost science literacy of California youth. The Toyota 4H20 project helps young people become engaged in experiential activities to learn about water quality and water conservation, while making personal commitments to conserve water. Youth also learn how to extend the current drinking water supply for future generations.
Extension-Science, Engineering, & Technology (E-SET)
Author: Staker, Jay (13 more by this author); Steve Truby
Description: This is the place for you if you're interested in science and technology education for youth! Explore this site to find science activities, educator workshops and links to other resources.
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author); Jay Staker
Description: Step right up to state fair season with CYFERnet! Discover the secrets behind the deep-fried, the thrill ride, and those impossible carnival games with a trio of fun activities. Includes recipes and why fair food tastes so good, and the science behind fair rides and midway challenges.
Garden based learning projects
Description: Cornell University describes a variety of garden-based learning projects.
Description: This interactive web-based program engages youth, ages 8-19 in science, technology, and math experiences. Users follow jean trends, calculate their average Frisbee throw, learn to fit a bicycle, and more.
Author: CYFERNet Team, (14 more by this author)
Description: An online camp for children age 8 to 12, using Internet applications to provide interactive games and resources to teach science and the arts while providing opportunities for youth to interact with other youth and adult Camp Counselors. Also includes resources to support school-age youth programs to use goCyberCamp as part of their activities.
Hands-On Educational Intervention for Middle School: Robotics, GPS/GIS, and Programming
Author: Barker, Brad
Description: The 4-H GEAR-Tech-21 Program integrates educational robotics and GPS/GIS skills to promote science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) knowledge, competencies, and attitudes amongst middle school youth. Nationwide, participants receive at least 240 hours of focused, hands-on experience over two years in a camp and a club or afterschool setting. Curriculum, training, professional development, and continued support are available to leaders.
- More about "Hands-On Educational Intervention for Middle School: Robotics, GPS/GIS, and Programming"
Improving County-Based Science Programs
Author: Smith, Martin; Jeannette L. George; Richard P. Enfield; Cheryl L. Meehan
Description: Using the 4-H learn-by-doing model may improve science literacy in children and youth. But to do so volunteers must be trained. The authors report the success of using Step-Up Incremental Training Model.
Description: n-Touch Science is a series of hands-on experiences that help children in grades three through five link the science they study to the science they live. In-Touch Science was designed for non-school informal settings such as 4-H clubs, community clubs, scouts, after-school enrichment and science centers. It has also been used successfully in home schooling and elementary schools. Children from diverse backgrounds have used these curricula. Special effort was made to test and pilot these materials with girls, Native Americans and youth with special needs.
Author: Staker, Jay (13 more by this author)
Description: The December 2009 Mission of the Month. To close out the Year of Astronomy, hurtle yourself through outer space via one of the great free, downloadable star systems and imagine a universe of black holes and worm holes, how one travels and survives. A great chance to apply your imagination to the science of space.
Description: A collection of on-line activities for children covering plants, trees, gardening, worm bins and insects.
Author: Cooperative Extension Sys,
Description: Just for Kids is a list of online activities and resources created by the Cooperative Extension Service and intended for direct use by children (without the mediation of an adult leader or teacher). This page of links is to simplify access and use by children.
Author: Pond, Kim; Phyllis Bocage
Description: Kids Capture the Universe, a program developed by MIT, combines the interest in astronomy with the technology of computers were youth utilize actual pictures acquired through telescopes to practice basic computer skills. Youth learn about telescopes, astronomy and the software while working on teams for a final presentation.
Description: Discover the land of microbes - Dirtland, Animal Pavilion, Snack Bar, Space Adventure, and Water World. Then take a safari and hunt for microbes. Learn all about these critters that are to small for the human eye to see without the aid of a microscope.
Author: CYFERNet Team, (14 more by this author)
Description: Mission of the Month highlights a range of activities that integrate technology and one of our three 4-H Mission Mandates: Science, Engineering & Technology; Healthy Lifestyles; or Youth in Governance. Each mission is centered on a theme and includes activities that work across a range of programs and ages. Missions are listed by title and date.
Mission of the Month: Backyard Bird Count
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author); Jay Staker
Description: This is an easy project for CYFAR programs to pull together. Just count the birds (by species) in your backyard (or other convenient location) for 15 minutes (or longer) on one of these 4 days. There are a few more rules, but it is an uncomplicated way to add citizen science and community service activities to your program, as well as introducing the key issues of biodiversity and climate change.
Mission of the Month: Biodiversity
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author)
Description: Why should we care about biodiversity? In a world of rapid change, isn't it nice to have some sameness? While it may be pretty, convenient and efficient -- it isn't as strong and resilient as a diverse ecosystem. Check out these activities, resources and ideas to learn more about how plants or animals that are susceptible in a monoculture environment, and the extra efforts needed to sustain them. In a biodiverse ecosystem, you will see a complex web of relationships among organisms that allow them all to survive and flourish
Author: Staker, Jay (13 more by this author); Trudy Dunham
Description: This month, we examine inner space – DNA, a part of your body that is too small to see, but that makes each living thing unique. After examining what DNA is and why it is in the news today, there are two activities. You may extract actual DNA from banana cells using some commonly found materials and tools. You can also debate the pros and cons of manipulating DNA, a field known as genetic engineering. DNA is the code for life. Each of the cells in your body holds strings of DNA that are too small to see even with a microscope. But even though it is very small, it is very important. It defines what you look like and many other things about you. Learn more about DNA
Mission of the Month: Down the Drain
Author: Dunham, Trudy (5 more by this author); Jay Staker
Description: Water - it is essential to life. But to fulfill its essential rule, the water must be "quality". This means that the water must be clean enough so you and other plants and animals can drink it without getting sick. And have sufficient oxygen to support our plants and fish that live under water. We don't always recognize how much our individual behavior and our life style affects water quality. When we put something 'down the drain' either in our homes or in our streets, we impact our water. National Youth Science Day will focus on water quality and its connection to climate change this year. As you prepare for that activity, here are some additional activities and resources to support the learning about our water cycle and how we impact water quality in our communities and the world.
Mission of the Month: Drinking Water
Author: Staker, Jay (13 more by this author); Trudy Dunham
Description: More than two-thirds of the surface of our planet is covered with water, and yet we are facing water shortages! These statements seem contradictory at first, but let's look more closely at water. What is it? When people talk about water they can mean different things. Water is a chemical compound made of 2 hygrogen atoms and 1 oxygen atom, H2O. Water is also what comes out of your faucet. That water is more than H2O -- it also contains minerals, oxygen, and other things such as chlorine, which purifies the water. Water is also found in bottles in shops. But the contents of these bottles varies a lot!
Mission of the Month: Engineering and Bridges
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author); Jay Staker
Description: February hosts National Engineers Week, so this month’s Mission of the Month is all about engineering, and one type of engineering project — bridges. Engineers take the principles of science and math and apply them directly to making things or solving problems. There are many types of engineers and your lives are touched by their work every day. Engineers help make things safe. Buildings, roads, bridges, machines, cars, toys, computers, clothes, furniture, food, bicycles, planes, rockets, boats, pens, medicines, replacement joints, artificial heart valves and cell phones are just a short list of what engineers dream up or improve. They design rides at Disneyland and toys like the Slinky. They are involved in every step of these processes from design, manufacture, testing, and repair.Engineering is a field that offers a wide variety of opportunities for careers that are rewarding personally and financially. As you do this month’s Mission, think about your future and whether you might like to be an engineer. Read more about engineering as a career.
Mission of the Month: Engineering- Designing Issues
Author: Staker, Jay (13 more by this author); Trudy Dunham, Lisa Regalla
Description: Do you enjoy puzzles and challenges? Would you like a career that is about making the lives of others better? Does the idea of being a part of a team that works to cure a disease like cancer, or to solve major problems such as climate change, sound more like what you would like to do with your life? Then maybe you do want to be an engineer! Check out this Mission for a variety of hands on activities and challenges that draw on your engineering skills and innovation -- from constructing a trebuchet to designing a life-size puppet!
Mission of the Month: Growth and Gardens
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author); Jay Staker
Description: Interested in plants? Here is an opportunity to do citizen science, or just plain science by digging in the dirt, identifying plants, and other activities and science projects.
Mission of the Month: How many worlds would it take?
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author); Jay Staker
Description: The way we live – traveling, eating, staying warm in the winter – has a cost to the earth. But some of us use more resources to support our lifestyles than others. Some people tread lightly on the earth, and others use more than their share of what the earth has to offer us. How many worlds we need to support ourselves if everyone on earth lived the way we do? There are a lot of factors to consider. The concept of "carrying capacity", the number of living things - plants as well as animals - that an area of land or water can support at any one time might be a good starting point. This and other activities support your exploration of this topic.
Mission of the Month: Into The Vortex – All About Tornadoes
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author)
Description: As the US enters tornado season, there is a lot to know about these funnel-shaped summer storms. What causes them? How strong are their winds? Which months have the most tornadoes? There are lots of ways to study tornadoes without getting close to them. This month’s mission will get you building a tornado model, studying the ways of these fierce storms, learning how to prepare for storm season, plus some things to do if a tornado should hit.
Mission of the Month: Invasive Species, the Aliens Around Us
Author: Nordby, Ann (24 more by this author)
Description: An invasive species is one that, when moved into a new ecosystem, out-competes natives. A group of activities illustrate the concept of balance in nature.
Mission of the Month: Let's Not "Blow" Our Energy Future! It's In the Wind
Author: Staker, Jay (13 more by this author); Trudy Dunham
Description: Wind is an energy source that nature provides to us. What is wind? Where does wind come from? How can wind be used to provide energy for our future? These are all basic questions that need to be considered when we think about wind energy.
Mission of the Month: Nano - The Science & Technology of Small
Author: Staker, Jay (13 more by this author); Trudy Dunham
Description: Why is Nano so big in today's world? Because our technologies have developed enough for us to see the teeny tiny particles that make up our world. And our science is advancing so we understand how these tiny particles work. Just what is nano? Check out these activities for greater understanding of nano and how it works!
Mission of the Month: Sky Bears and Other Creatures
Author: Dunham, Trudy (5 more by this author)
Description: Learn about astronomy and its lore by doing this set of observational activities.
Mission of the Month: Surf and Sail
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author)
Description: Just in time for the sizzling summer heat, CYFERnet dives into another cool Mission. Learn about waves, wind power and boat building through exciting experiments, investigations, creative activities and some healthy competition:
Mission of the Month:Adventures in Aerospace
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author); Jay Staker
Description: From Mars explorations to star counting to space parties, this month, youth can go to infinity and beyond with four stellar activities:
One Seed at a Time: Alleviating Climate Change through Youth Community Action in the Garden
Description: One Seed at a Time is a model project for how teams of children, youth and adults working in partnership can make a difference in their communities through sustainable gardening practices.
Online, Issues Based, Science Learning through CYFERnet's Mission of the Month
Author: Staker, Jay (13 more by this author); Trudy Dunham, Lisa Regalla
Description: Mission of the Month is an online learning opportunity, for youth to experience fun science, engineering, and technology embedded in real-life issues such as hunger, climate change, and biodiversity. Monthly missions are offered on the CYFERnet website. Missions offer a range of experiences and can be used in a variety of settings. Sample missions will be experienced in a hands-on session, including resources from the public television show, SciGirls.
Description: The Rockets Away educational program teaches about the science of rocketry through the use of hands-on experiments, computer software and the building and launching of 2-liter bottle rockets.
Science and Psychology of Responding to Natural and Environmental Disasters
Description: There are a number of recent natural and environmental events in the news. There are wildfires and earthquakes in the western U.S., tornados in the mid-west region and the hurricane season is here. As our nation responds it is important to help children and youth understand what is happening. These featured resources help children and youth understand the science behind the events and how to prepare for such events.
Author: Anderson, Kim (2 more by this author)
Description: A fact sheet containing rules for safe science experiments.
Skillathons for Science, Technology and Engineering
Author: Dunham, Trudy (5 more by this author); CYFERnet TEam
Description: Skillathons are challenging, non-competitive learning-by-doing-stations that engage youth in a realistic situation and task to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. How to develop a skillathon and sample skillathons.
Author: Benesh, Carol; Stephanie Davison; Gregg Switzer; Terri Hartly; Jack Joyce; Virgil McCormick ; Isiaih Brown
Description: The Art of Science shows how youth in Montana are using film and robotics technology to learn about science. Download the pdf file to see the workshop presentation at the 2010 CYFAR conference presented by Carol Benesh, Stephanie Davison, Gregg Switzer, Terri Hartly, Jack Joyce, Virgil McCormick and Isiaih Brown.
The Climb: Mastering Self and Aconcagua
Author: Dunham, Trudy (31 more by this author); Jay Staker
Description: Steve Brown climbs Aconcagua, the highest mountain outside of the Himalayas. Activities support youth planning and training for an outdoor expedition, and the physical realities of such treks. Includes background information and reflection questions on mountaineering traditions, health and measurement.
The Faces of Science: African Americans in the Sciences
Description: this site features African American men and women scientist who have greatly contributed to our world of knowledge related to biology, chemistry, engineering, genetics, physics, and mathematics.
The Three Sisters: Exploring an Iroquois Garden
Description: The activities of this project link human culture and horticulture through foods, customs, and stories of the Iroquois’ corn-bean-squash plantings.
Tools of the Trade II: Creating Science-Rich Learning Opportunities
Description: This is an archived web-based training produced by the CYFERnet Teen Editorial Board in September 2009. Tools of the Trade II is a staff-development module that uses a "train-the-trainer" approach to deliver a comprehensive 21-hour training for afterschool program frontline staff and youth workers on incorporating science, engineering and technology (SET) into afterschool programming. Using a hands-on, interactive skill-building approach, it provides tools drawn from best practices to help afterschool staff enhance communication, management and educational delivery of afterschool programs.
Vegetable varieties investigation (Vvi): Engaging Youth in Citizen Science
Description: A citizen science approach to preserving biodiversity and connecting with community. Vegetable Varieties Investigation engages middle and high school aged youth with gardeners.
– Research –
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Description: Zoos are changing. Once simple menageries, today's zoological parks are centers for conservation. Wander through the Cincinnati Zoo on-line. You'll find more than an introduction to the Zoo. You'll find new connections to the world of nature, and on-line activities.
Improving County-Based Science Programs
Author: Smith, Martin; Jeannette L. George; Richard P. Enfield; Cheryl L. Meehan
Description: Using the 4-H learn-by-doing model may improve science literacy in children and youth. But to do so volunteers must be trained. The authors report the success of using Step-Up Incremental Training Model.
Research Update 5: STEM Out-of-School Time Programs for Girls
Description: Out-of-school time (OST) programs that focus on girls’ involvement in STEM can play an essential role in improving female representation in these traditionally male-dominated fields. OST programs offer girls a non-threatening and non-academic environment for hands-on learning that is collaborative, informal, and personal. However, barriers to quality implementation and outcome-based evaluation present challenges for STEM programs serving girls. This Research Update highlights findings from the evaluations and research studies in the OST Database that focus on STEM programs for girls.
Thinking Like a Scientist: Turning High-Risk Kids on to Science
Author: Williams, Wendy (1 more by this author)
Description: High-risk youth tend not to pursue science education and careers. One reason is the way science is traditionally taught. "Thinking Like a Scientist" (TLAS) uses everyday examples - such as the effects of violent video games, and treatments for adolescent depression - to interest, energize, and involve low-income youth, youth of color, and girls, who often turn off to traditional science instruction. TLAS shows students that scientific thinking is a practical skill they can use to solve problems in their daily lives. It has been used successfully with African American, Latino, Native American, and disadvantaged White youth across the United States.