TeachersFirst Resource Listings

Subject Results by title Records 1 to 20 of 42

Grades 5 to 8

Using an authentic environmental issue - acid rain - this lesson plan guides students through Internet research to discover pH levels of rainwater in their state, collect specific data from their own community, and investigate possible causes and solutions. In the process, students learn to use a spreadsheet to record and analyze data. Links to relevant Web sites and student materials are provided, along with ideas for extension activities. Aligned to National Standards.
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Air Data - United States Environmental Protection Agency

Grades 9 to 12

This website allows students to view the air quality of any state in the USA. Choose a region of the US, a state, or a specific zip code. The site provides a detailed information sheet (Air Data Report). The website allows you to choose several states (or regions) to compare and analyze the data. Visit the Air Data Home Page to learn about the various features and information available at this website. This site requires FLASH. You can get it from the TeachersFirst Toolbox page..
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In the Classroom:
What a fabulous authentic instruction tool for any science class studying air quality or pollution. Why not divide the students into groups to investigate a specific pollutant or to compare different regions of the United States. Use this tool to enable students to generate data, analyze the data, research trends, create a plan of action to improve air quality, investigate surrounding landforms, or other lesson ideas.

Bering Climate - National Oceanic Atmosphere Administration

Grades 9 to 12

A great site for Life Science and Earth-Space Science, this site addresses a popular region in Arctic studies, the Bering Sea. This site has articles and information on Ecosystems, maps of the region, as well as a customized data analysis function that allows users to access a number of NOAA databases. The databases may be good for advanced research, while the ecosystem information is suitable for classroom use.
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blist - blist

Grades 3 to 12

TeachersFirst Edge Entry: for moderately adventurous technology users. This online database-creation tool allows you (and your students) to create a database online, including images, links, and more. A "blist" is a "web list." Blists can be shared with others as totally public or by invitation only. They can also be entirely private (accessible only to the person who created them). The tool and was designed for general consumer use, not education, but it has many potential uses in the classroom, for teachers, and parents. As Blist explains it, "A blist can be as simple or as complex as you need it to be. Compared with a spreadsheet like Excel, blist is much more visual and intuitive - plus, blist is really social, it's easy to share with other people and groups. What's more, you can also find blists created by other users, so you don’t have to start from scratch." You can view the data through a "lens" or filter (show data that meets certain criteria, such as only the entries from a certain city in an address list, include photos, create groups for sharing the blist, allow others to input their information, import and export with Excel, and more. Here is a sample blist about ways to use blist in the classroom from the TeachersFirst Edge Team. Add your ratings to our ideas or add more ideas for how to use blist!

Be aware that this site is currently in transition. The original Blist is still available. However, they are upgrading and changing their site to Socrata. As this upgrade is completed, TeachersFirst will be reviewing the new site. For now, you can click on a link to take you to the original Blist.

This site requires Flash. You can get it from the TeachersFirst Toolbox page.
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In the Classroom:
Skills Needed: If you like directions, explore the links form the home page about ways to use blist. To start right in, create the account (requires email) then start right in. No email verification needed. Explore options under the Dashboard (icon at top right. Explore some blists created by others to see examples (teachers should do this without students, since these are public blists that may not be classroom-appropriate). Create a blist from another model or from scratch using simple drag and drop arrangements. Set the privacy level of your blist to public, shared with specific users, or private. Our example is public, with specific permissions for what others may do. See recent changes to your blist made by others from your dashboard. Explore the options for creating contacts to "share" blists, including emailing a blist to someone (shows as an table in the email). Blist will even save contacts you enter.

Safety concerns: Registered users set their own screen display name or choose "undisclosed." We recommend using generic display names for students so only the teacher can identify them, since "undisclosed" will not tell a teacher which student did which work. Although single blists can be private or limited to groups you create, students can easily see other "popular" blists (possibly not classroom-appropriate), participate in public blists, follow the activity of others, and add others to their "contacts" (a more businesslike term for "friends"). You may want to use a teacher Gmail account and assigned subaccounts to be able to track the activity of students if you allow them to use the site on their own. Other options: a blist user agreement with specific permissions and consequences with parent permission> If you use web 2.0 tools in general in your classroom, you may want to create a single classroom policy in accordance with your school's AUP and simply list the tools your classes will use, having students and parents sign. This will allow you to spell out caveats about public interaction, profiles, posting student work, damaging the work of others, etc. If sharing a blist you created for students to add to (such as a classroom database of independent reading choices), use the URL for direct access to the blist to avoid some of the more "public" areas. These areas will still be easily accessible for curious clickers, however. Some messages during "loading" times encourage exploration. One unfortunate tip we noted unhappily: "Be a voyeur. Click Discover." Teachers with students not accustomed to self-controlled behavior on the web will want to limit use of this tool to teacher-centered or whole-class activities. The tool IS worth learning for just for these!

Possible uses: Teach about data collection and analysis using this tool on your interactive whiteboard or projector. The highly visual, drag and drop interface will make data manipulation work more intuitively for your students to understand. Let them click and drag to create a blist and resulting graphs from surveys the class conducts. If you are comfortable allowing students to use the tool, create an inventory of books read independently with reviews, ratings and more. Students can add to it from home and collect credit for outside readings or find books based on others' reviews. Collect lab data, have groups collect data on famous people, inventors, or historic events. Compare consumer goods. Share important dates and checklists for major projects by allowing student and parents to VIEW (not edit) a database you create. Assign students to evaluate and compare different web resources as part of a class research assignment. See more ideas in the sample blist about ways to use Blist in the classroom from the TeachersFirst Edge Team.

Bridging the Watershed - National Park Service

Grades 9 to 12

Designed specifically for students, this site is a collaboration between several parks and schools in the Washington, DC area. The goal: explore ecological issues through field trips to the various parks and sharing data and observations. Unregistered users can examine and download the various data. We assume the volume of data available will increase in the coming months.
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Census - andrew trice

Grades 3 to 12

Powered by Google Maps, this site allows you to look at comparisons of various census data across the US. Simply enter a zip code, click Go and choose among the following data sets: Age Distribution, Ethnic Distribution, Population Statistics, Household Statistics, Housing Units, Vacancy Rates, and others. The location is shown on a Google Map for viewing of surrounding areas and the data is shown in a bar graph. Additionally, the weather is shown for the area selected. Create a snapshot of the graph using the print screen function (pc) or using apple - shift - 4 (mac.)
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In the Classroom:
Choose various areas in a region or scattered around the US to look at different census patterns. This real world tool can make studying graphs or data analysis more meaningful to your math students. Use this information to determine other factors to research such as environmental, job opportunities, and other factors. Find past data and compare to present data. Using a snapshot of the graph, have students create a multimedia audio presentation using Voicethread reviewed here.

Chartgo - Chartgo

Grades 2 to 12

Create a graph simply and easily. Choose a graph type from a variety of choices such as Pie, Bar, Line, or Area. Also choose 2D or 3D as a dimension and add labels, legends, or gridlines. Enter text for the titles as well as the X and Y axes. Create your graph and view the image. Copy the URL for the graph and paste into a blog, wiki, or website to share. Right click on the graph image to save to your computer (use control click in a Mac.)
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In the Classroom:
Create data in your classroom and quickly create a graph to represent it. Share through links or adding images to blogs, wikis, or websites. Graphs can also be shared on an interactive whiteboard or projector for better analysis of data by the class. Graph results of a test, answers from students, favorite foods, fictitious budgets, class schedules, and whatever else is applicable in your classroom. Have cooperative learning groups create their own graphs to share with the class. Use this tool to create quick pie chart or bar graph on your interactive whiteboard whenever you count class votes or encounter other data so students “see” data on a regular basis and visual students have another way to absorb the information. Keep the link handy on your web page to access it quickly in or out of class.

CIA World Factbook - Central Intelligence Agency

Grades 6 to 12

Get the facts fast. Use a simple pull-down to find a country of the world and learn all about its significant data. The information is separated into categories:Introduction, Geography, People, Government, Economy, Communications, Transportation, Military, and Transnational Issues. All the information is presented in a dry, factual format (mostly numbers) but provides an excellent way to compare countries, draw inferences, and predict trends, hypothesize cause/effect, and more. By researching the data, your class can look for possible connections between demographics and economics, for example.
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In the Classroom:
Provide this resource as a link on your teacher web page or in class for supporting data to be used in discussions or debates. In math classes, use the data to create and compare graphical representations of real-world data. In geography classes, use the information to draw connections between physical features of a nation and its economy. World language classes can compare the various nations that speak the language they are studying.

Collaborative International Boiling Point Project -

Grades 6 to 12

This real-time project seeks to enlist students around the world in comparing data on the process of boiling a pot of water in their laboratories. At this writing, the next phase of the project starts in mid-September, 1999. Registration information is provided on the site.
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Data.gov - USA.gov

Grades 9 to 12

View data sets to determine trends in data. Enhance critical thinking skills and analysis by choosing "Raw data." See the "Tool Catalog" for access to widgets and data mining tools, or "GeoData" to determine trends, ask questions about these trends, and search for answers. As you teach about data manipulation in math class, use "real world" examples that students will find interesting. A tutorial on using the data is provided. Search the database by search term, file type, or category as well as the state and local level. Either view data or download for later analysis. Be sure to check the Data Policy on the site for citing and using data set information and the other sections including an FAQ section that is very helpful. Looking for data sets that you can't find? Suggest them to Data.gov for consideration.
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In the Classroom:
Demonstrate this site (or the portions useful in your classroom) on an interactive whiteboard or projector. Use data related to population such as birth, death, marriage, etc. as well as other social data such as energy and utilities and education. As you teach about data manipulation in math class, use "real world" examples that students will find interesting. Geodata includes data sets such as Biology and Geology, political boundaries, and Atmosphere and climate. As a problem solving activity, allow students to access any data of interest, develop a useful graph, and create a statement or set of questions about the data. Looking for an online graphing tool? Check out Chartgo (reviewed here). Students should develop reasonable hypotheses about the data, find relevant information that leads to further understanding, and potential solutions for understanding the problem. Class discussions can lead to the complexity of most problems and associated issues. Students can create elevator pitches that propose solutions or reasons to be concerned about issues or related blog posts that follow the conversations about the data. Create a dialogue with scientists, government officials, or other experts in understanding data, issues, and solutions. Use data as evidence for debates.

Earth2Class - Columbia University

Grades 1 to 12

This is a site for earth science teachers. It offers a collection of resources, professional development opportunities, and a huge archive of data sources for earth science activities. The site itself assumes significant technical capabilities on the part of the user, especially for the use and implementation of the data sets. This site could be a gold mine for teachers with the appropriate technical skills
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Gapminder - Gapminder

Grades 7 to 12

Gapminder is an interactive site designed to present world demographic information in a highly visual way. Using either a world map, or a chart with "bubbles" sized according to each country's population, users can track 30 years of change in a wide variety of economic and social indicators (for example, population size, percentage of GNP dedicated to military spending, proportion of girls in school, infant mortality). Math teachers can use the site to demonstrate data analysis skills with meaningful data. This site requires Flash. Get it from the TeachersFirst Toolbox page..
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In the Classroom:
The site would be best used on an interactive whiteboard, although computer-savvy students could access it individually. The world data presented might supplement lessons in economics, civics, world cultures, current events or modern history. Teachers should plan to spend a chunk of time previewing the site before using, however, as the interface is not entirely intuitive. There is a tutorial, but it will take some experimentation to discover the various ways to manipulate the data and present it graphically. You can compare individual countries, or zoom into geographic regions. "Mature" teachers who learned bar graphs and pie charts may find the choices a little overwhelming, but with a little noodling around, will be able to graphically illustrate concepts in ways never before possible.br br Challenge your students to retrieve and use some of the data in support of an essay thesis, oral presentation, or debate.

Global Edge - Michigan State University

Grades 9 to 12

This Michigan State University site provides a rich collection of resources for examining global economics with high school economics students. This particular section of the site has resources on the business climate and economic data of almost 200 countries. The site also lists resources for further research about international trade, financial markets, and business news.
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Historical Hurricane Tracks - NOAA

Grades 4 to 12

Here's an online tool that lets users compare the tracks of different hurricanes from a listing of more than 30 years' data. It's a great tool that can be used to illustrate the variety of paths these storms take. Try comparing different years, different periods of the year, etc. to see the variations.
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In the Classroom:
This site is a great interactive "hypothesis testing" tool for student "hurrican predictors. Note that it requires a speedy connection, and the results will take a few seconds to appear.

Interactive whiteboard Resources for Teachers - Teacher LED

Grades 0 to 12

This site has great simulations in Math that can be used with an Interactive Whiteboard. Math categories include "Algebra," "Data Handling," "Number," "Shape, Space, and Measure," and "General Maths." Specific topics include "Reading Scales," "Rotational Symmetry," "Shop Addition," "Prime Snakes," and "Number Cylinder." Information and ideas for use on each Interactive can be found both on the site and as an Adobe PDF download. This site requires Flash. You can get it from the TeachersFirst Toolbox page..
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In the Classroom:
Show difficult-to-understand concepts on the interactive whiteboard or projector. Use these Interactives by having students predict outcomes and then carry out the experiment, such as in rolling die to determine probabilities. Students can then apply the information to a new set of problems. Use many of the interactives as a class game. Though perfect for the whiteboard, they can also be used on individual computers or as a computer learning station.

Journey North Mystery Class - Journey North

Grades 2 to 9

Teach about the earth and seasonal change as you solve a real mystery. This unique international "hide and seek" activity is interactive, easy to use, and free! The challenge begins the last week of January and continues throughout May. Each week, students are given a clue to try to locate a "Mystery Class" from somewhere around the world. All clues are seasonal and some include sunrise and sunset times. The site includes standards in science, math and geography. The site provides lesson plans, interactive activities, video clips and more. Registration is free for this 11-week adventure or you can use the resources at the website with no registration necessary. Flash is required for some of the activities.
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In the Classroom:
Make this "hide and seek" adventure a weekly highlight in your social studies or science class. It is ideal if you are studying geography or seasons. Use an interactive whiteboard or projector to make this a class activity, but be sure to include the link on your teacher web page for students to share at home. Be sure to check out the Teacher info and "Resources and Activities" page to find lesson plans, interactive games, standards and more.

KML Factbook - CIA World Factbook

Grades 4 to 12

Combine data sets from International agencies with the visualization of Google Earth 3D or Goog Maps 2D for a great way to look at data. Search data such as population growth rates, birth rates, education expenditures, and age structure diagrams by clicking and highlighting the data set and then clicking the "preview in map button." Click "download kml file" to save this file for others to see. This file can be embedded into a blog, wiki, or website. Choose between 2D, 3D, or data views for the information as well as using different coloring for portions of data. Rotate the globe on the screen to view other areas. Click on a country to view a pop up box that displays detailed information. Data sets can be downloaded through the link at the bottom. If you do not have access to Google Earth (free, loadable) software, you can use the data in Google Maps without installing anything.
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In the Classroom:
Assign students various countries within a data set to make comparisons. Tie the data to biological, geographical, cultural, and social issues that exist in the world. Bring a greater understanding to economic and environmental issues currently a problem in many countries throughout the world. World language classes can see this data to help students understand the cultures of the countries where the language is spoken. Have students use an online graphing tool such as Chartgo, reviewed here to display results. Compare specific attributes of two countries using an online Venn Diagram, such as the one (reviewed here). Another idea: have cooperative learning groups use this resource to create online books about the country using a resource such as Bookemon, reviewed here. How about having students research using this site and then create a project using Woices, (reviewed here). This site allows students to create audio recordings AND choose a location (on a map) where the story takes place.

KS3 Bitesize - BBC

Grades 5 to 9

Pick your subject for Keystage 3, roughly equivalent to grades 6-8 in the U.S. (English, Math, or Science anyone?) Find interactive activities and lessons in a variety of topics in each subject area. At the end of each lesson is a review that recaps the main points. In the English section you will find Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening, and Shakespeare. The Math section features Numbers (basic arithmetic), Algebra, Handling Data, Measurement, Shapes, and Space. Science includes Organisms, Behavior, Health, Chemical and Material Behavior, Energy, Electricity, Force, The Universe, Environment, and Earth. Within each area there are interactives, tests, and review (referred to as revise at this site, created in the UK). There are also specific activities within each of the categories, educational "games," and message boards. Use of the message boards requires registration but it is not required to use the other materials.
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In the Classroom:
From Life Processes to Solids, Liquids, and Gases in Science, Orders of Operation to Probability in Math, and Writing Structure to Shakespeare in English, find a topic for any material you are covering. Share the interactive (or other sections) on your projector or interactive whiteboard). Provide this link on your class website for students to use to practice both in and out of the classroom. After viewing a topic, brainstorm the main points together as a class and use the information on additional problems or interactives within the classroom.

Making Science Fun: The Da Vinci Project - Steve Spangler

Grades 4 to 8

This lesson plan examines the occurrence of Fibonacci numbers popularized by the book and movie The Da Vinci Code. By examining relationships between numbers of petals and other plant parts in fruits, vegetables, trees, and flowers, students begin to take note of the frequency of occurrence of the famed numbers. Students learn plant identification, data recording, research methods, and drawing conclusions based on findings in this fascinating, multi-disciplinary approach.
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In the Classroom:
Use your digital camera and real plants to collect and observe and a spreadsheet to track and calculate. Even better, use an online collaborative spreadsheet such as InstaCalc for students to enter data from home and school. You may get them hooked on noticing something about nature when they are outside.

Many eyes - IBM

Grades 9 to 12

Teachers First Edge review: For adventurous technology users. Looking for data for analysis and comparison? Use this great site for existing data sets and visualizations to explore, analyze, and form conclusions. Click on links to explore data sets, visualizations, comments, or topics. Use the search box at the top to search specific topics or subjects. Create your own visualizations by using an existing data set or uploading your own. Registration is not required to create visualizations (you will be named as anonymous.) Choose from the following possible visualizations of data: scatterplot, network diagram, matrix, bar or bubble chart, graphs, tree maps, histograms, word trees, tag clouds, or maps.
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In the Classroom:
Skills required: Determine the data set to use, choose words or parameters, enter a title (required,) tags, or description, and publish the data. Easily share your visualizations by using the embed code in a blog, wiki, or other website or by emailing a link. Users will need to know how to manage embed codes and use in sites of choice. Create comments for other visualizations. Create an account to be able to find your visualizations and leave comments in your name. Registration requires an email account and verification may take up to an hour once submitted. Tip: rather than using your personal or work email, create a free Gmail account to use for memberships. If you plan to have students register individually, you may want to create your own Gmail account with up to 20 subaccounts for each group of students (by code name or number) within your classes. Here is a blog post that tells how to set up GMail subaccounts to use for any online membership service.

Safety/Security: Some content in this area may be inappropriate for your classroom. Always preview before assigning. If an existing data set is to be used, provide a link to the specific visualization and monitor student work. If students are to create data sets for submission, consider creating a class account that can be used by all students for submission. An extra email address or one created for this purpose can be used to create the login. Preview all visualizations before publishing. Model how to use this site safely on your projector or interactive whiteboard so students can learn how to think and act wisely online. Be sure to discuss what are considered quality and appropriate commenting of other students or users visualizations.

Ideas for Use: Use a single data set to with different visualizations so students can see the power of different visual tools in explaining and interpreting numbers. Find data sets that can be used to analyze trends, make comparisons, or apply information in a meaningful way. For example, begin a lesson in a Health, Science, History, or Math class while previewing this visualization. Use it to generate questions, ideas, and direction for student groups to research more information. Examples include change in diet in past generations, energy expenditure and input, health related issues concerning diet, differences in diets of other cultures, different types of food molecules and how they are processed by the body, etc. Create whiteboard presentations using the visualization and related information to share information with the rest of the class. Have a data set that students are having difficulty identifying trends? Try using this tool in order to view different visualizations to make meaning of the data.

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