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# Educator Resources: Science and Nature

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The Smithsonian's goal for science resources in grades PK–12 is to provide a well-rounded, inquiry-based, and engaging educational experience that nurtures scientific literacy, critical thinking, and an understanding of the natural world. These resources aim to empower learners to reach their full potential and contribute to the advancement of science and the broader society. To achieve these objectives, the Smithsonian employs a range of resources and media tailored to different grade levels, such as inquiry-based learning and hands-on investigations.
Grades K–5 (Elementary)       Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute  Conservation Classroom
Conservation Classroom is a collection of monthly lessons containing four elements: wonder, engage, act, and connect. In addition, there are Educator’s Materials for implementing the lesson in the classroom.

*Grades K–5. NGSS aligned. Zoom/webinar format. *
       Smithsonian Environmental Research Center  Science To Go: DNA Extraction
In this activity students learn about DNA and our Smithsonian scientists that study it, then replicate that science by extracting DNA from applesauce. The unit includes a teacher guide, student worksheets, an activity booklet in Spanish and English, and recordings for facilitating the activity.

*Grades 3–8. Learning Lab collection containing pre and post student worksheets, videos. NGSS aligned.*

 
       Smithsonian Science Education Center  Expedition: Insects
Read this e-book and travel on an “expedition” led by entomologists to learn how insects live in nature around the world. 

*Grades 3–5. Animated e-book. NGSS aligned.*

More Resources...
Grades 6–8 (Middle School)       Smithsonian Learning Lab  Secrets of the Sea 
Navigate the hidden treasures of a coral reef in the “Secrets of the Sea” 3D online interactive, then meet the Smithsonian scientist the work is based on.

*Grades 3–8. Online game with paired Learning Lab collection containing videos, reflection questions, and a featured Smithsonian scientist biography. *
       National Museum of African American History and Culture  The Corona's Cooling Power
Conduct a hands-on investigation to better understand how light and design can help a building conserve energy, inspired by the National Museum of African American History and Culture open-weave panels.

*Grades 6–8. Learning Lab collection containing activity guide, reflection questions, and extension activities. NGSS aligned.*
       Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service  Life in One Cubic Foot
Discover the variety of plants and animals in your neighborhood on your own, with a friend, or with your family. Learn how you can support the health of your local wildlife, starting with a single cubic foot.

*Grades 6–8. Learning Lab collection containing activity guide, reflection questions, and extension activities. NGSS aligned.*

More Resources...
Grades 9–12       Smithsonian Collaboration  “Sustainability in Action” Activity Guide
This 12-page guide curated by a team of educators across the Smithsonian is filled with success stories in conservation; highlighting leading research currently underway; and featuring ways that generations across the country can contribute to Our Shared Future: Life on a Sustainable Planet.

*Grades 6–12+. Learning Lab collection containing downloadable activity guide, and digital resources referenced within. *
       Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian  Women in Science
This series highlights only a very few of the women who have made important discoveries and have had a crucial impact on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) fields. This, however, is not just a look into the past. Today, women are in every STEM discipline, in every type of job, and represent the widest range of background and experiences.

*Grades 6–12+. Website that includes biographies, extension activities, and online resources.*
       Smithsonian Gardens  Green Ambassador Challenge
Empower teens to be local leaders by making your school or community a healthier place. Take on Smithsonian Gardens’ Green Ambassador Challenge and introduce students to project-based learning in the real world, one garden at a time.

*Grades 6–12. Website featuring online and in-person educator program options. *

 

More Resources...
Extended Learning
Resources designed for use by K–12 teachers, afterschool program providers, families, and individuals interested in lifelong learning.
Smithsonian Ocean Portal
The Smithsonian's online portal to ocean science, including unusual and everyday organisms, ocean-inspired art, researchers devoting their lives to exploring the still mostly mysterious ecosystem. 

*Grades 2–12+. Resource portal. Includes lesson plans. *
DIY Planet Search
In this online resource, control a real MicroObservatory Telescope Network, record images of distant solar systems, interpret and share the data gathered, and become part of a community of planet hunters!

*Grades 4–12+. Hybrid activity remotely using live observatory data. *
Mars Rover Perseverance and Helicopter Ingenuity
Meet the dynamic duo—a ground-breaking rover and a record-breaking helicopter are the newest residents of Mars. 

*Grades 3–12+. Resource website that includes information and activities around NASA Mars space mission.*

More Resources...
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