Educator Resources: Science and Nature
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)
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
Smithsonian Science for the Classroom K-5 Curriculum
Designed to engage students in phenomenon- and problem-driven learning that connects students firsthand to the world around them, this curriculum was developed in consultation with teachers and content experts and was field tested in a range of schools with diverse populations. It draws on the latest findings and best practices from education research and supports teachers with point-of-use support.Grades K–5. NGSS aligned.
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.
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.
Smithsonian Science Education Center
Women in STEM eBook Series
Designed to highlight the often overlooked role of women in STEM, these eBooks feature biographies of trailblazing women who made history through their scientific discoveries and innovation. Each eBook has a theme or topic that unites the women's stories, highlighting different paths, obstacles, and careers of women in STEM to inspire the next generation.Grades 6–12. NGSS aligned.
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.
Extended Learning
Resources designed for use by K–12 teachers, afterschool program providers, families, and individuals interested in lifelong learning.
National Museum of Natural History
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.
Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian
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.
National Air and Space Museum
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.