Using paper patterns, students are able to construct a model that depicts Karst topography, including typical features such as caves, limestone bedrock, sink holes, and springs. The accompanying Teachers Guide provides extensive background information about the dissolutional processes that form caves. Information is also provided about unique animals found in caves and the importance of understanding ... Full description.

This guide accompanies an educational wallsheet that uses Gamma-ray Bursts as an engagement to teach selected topics in physical science and mathematics. It features four curriculum enhancement activities, background information, assessment information, student worksheets, extension and transfer activities, and detailed information about the physical science and mathematics content standards for grades ... Full description.

This hands-on activity is designed to introduce students to the complexities of using solar panels in space exploration. Full description.

In this computer-based exercise, students analyze realistically simulated X-ray spectra of a supernova remnant and determine the abundances of various elements in them. In the end, they will find that the elements necessary for life on Earth -- the iron in their blood, the calcium in their bones -- are created in these distant explosions. The product consists of both downloadable software (PC only) ... Full description.

These inquiry-driven interactive Web explorations involve five mysteries that take advantage of students? curiosity to build critical thinking and analytical skills. The mysteries are: Solar Supernova, Alien Bandstand, Live! From 2-Alpha, Star Market and Galactic Doom. Each mystery has been constructed to teach at least one physical science standards -e.g. conservation of energy, motion, or forces-, ... Full description.

This guide accompanies an educational wallsheet that uses active galaxies as an engagement to teach selected topics in physical science and mathematics from the Fermi Gamma-Ray Space Telescope Web site. Active galaxies have super-massive black holes in their cores, some of which emit jets of particles and light. It features three curriculum enhancement activities, background information, assessment ... Full description.

Astro-Venture is an educational, interactive, multimedia Web environment highlighting NASA careers and astrobiology research. This guide ? one of four - covers biology. Students in grades 5-8 role play NASA occupations and use scientific inquiry, as they search for and design a planet with the necessary characteristics for human habitation. Full description.

This hands-on activity explores the nature of thermal inertia. Full description.

This hands-on activity introduces students to searching for asteroids. Full description.

This module details a classroom investigation highlighting the work of those who develop, test, and launch robotic spacecraft. The Discovery Program video, "Unlocking Mysteries of the Solar System," which can be accessed through the website link, serves as the springboard for this classroom investigation. Ten segments depict each mission?s science objectives, timeline, and unique aspects with real ... Full description.