Properties of Matter
The concepts covered in Properties of Matter closely correspond with those in the National Science Education Standards for Grades 5-8. The focus of this module is the physical and chemical properties that characterize matter. Students examine several characteristic properties (for example, appearance, density, melting and boiling points, and chemical behavior) and investigate how these properties relate to pure substances (elements and compounds) and mixtures. They engage in a series of inquiries carefully designed to develop their understanding of the properties of matter.

Each lesson builds on skills and concepts presented in previous lessons. As students progress through the module, they take greater responsibility for their own learning, eventually planning and conducting their own procedures, devising their own data tables, and analyzing the results they obtain.

Organisms: Macro To Micro
Organisms -- From Macro to Micro gives students the opportunity for hands-on study of organisms from most of the taxonomic groups scientists currently recognize as kingdoms. While the module addresses 16 representative organisms, it focuses on the life cycles and processes of two organisms in particular -- Wisconsin Fast Plants and the cabbage white butterfly.

Students discover that the life cycle of these two interesting organisms are linked in important ways. They find that neither can survive without the other. Students also learn that humans are organisms -- members of the kingdom Animalia. They discover that humans undergo many of the same life processes as do smaller organisms, which makes the module that much more relevant.

Students of all ages, but particularly those of middle school age have a natural curiosity about living things and how they function. Organisms -- From Macro to Micro taps this curiosity by first helping students clarify what they already know about organisms, then having them perform a series of engaging, hands-on, thought-provoking activities that will enable them to expand their knowledge.