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NSTA Press® Sample Chapters

Looking for Science Activities?

NSTA Press logoNSTA Press publishes science activities for teachers of kindergarten through college on a wide range of topics. We've posted sample chapters and activities from our books for free download so you can look inside. Be sure to search our online bookstore for additional topics!

Below are six categories:

Just click on the chapters for PDFs of free chapters or sample pages.

Kindergarten through High School (K–12)

Air, Water, and Weather: Stop Faking It! Finally Understanding Science So You Can Teach It by William C. Robertson (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “Under Pressure”

Animal Coloration: Activities on the Evolution of Concealment (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “The Vision of Animals”

Assessment in Science: Practical Experiences and Education Research
    • Free chapter: “Using Rubrics to Foster Meaningful Learning”

Big Data, Small Devices: Investigating the Natural World Using Real-Time Data by Donna Governor, Michael Bowen, and Eric Brunsell
    • Free chapter: “Sample Activities Using Real-Time Data”

Brain-Powered Science: Teaching and Learning With Discrepant Events by Thomas O'Brien (5–12)
    • Free chapter: "Air Mass Matters: Creating a Need-to-Know"

Bringing Outdoor Science In: Thrifty Classroom Lessons by Steve Rich (K–8)
    • Free chapter: "Rocks and Soils”

The Case for STEM Education: Challenges and Opportunities by Rodger W. Bybee (K–College)
    • Free chapter: “How Is STEM Education Reform Different From Other Education Reforms?”

Chemistry Basics: Stop Faking It! Finally Understanding Science So You Can Teach It by William C. Robertson (5–12)
    • Free chapter: “Simple Models”

Creating a STEM Culture for Teaching and Learning by Jeff Weld
    • Free chapter: “Community Buy-In for STEM”

Creative Writing in Science: Activities That Inspire by Katie Coppens (3–12)
    • Free chapter: “Group Poem: Earth’s History”

Designing Effective Science Instruction: What Works in Science Classrooms by Anne Tweed
    • Free chapter: “Building the Framework”

Designing Meaningful STEM Lessons by Milton Huling and Jackie Speake Dwyer
    • Free chapter: “Correlation to A Framework for K–12 Science Education”

Disciplinary Core Ideas: Reshaping Teaching and Learning by Ravit Golan Duncan, Joseph Krajcik, and Ann E. Rivet
    • Free chapter: “Core Idea PS4: Waves and Their Applications in Technologies for Information Transfer”

Energy: Stop Faking It! Finally Understanding Science So You Can Teach It by William C. Robertson (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “Recognizing Energy”

Even More Brain-Powered Science: Teaching and Learning With Discrepant Events by Thomas O'Brien (5–12)
    • Free chapter: "Osmosis and 'Naked' Eggs: The Environment Matters"

Even More Everyday Science Mysteries: Stories for Inquiry-Based Science Teaching by Richard Konicek-Moran (K–8)
    • Free chapter: "Here's the Crusher" (air pressure)

Everyday Assessment in the Science Classroom edited by Janet E. Coffey and J. Myron Atkin
    • Free chapter: “The Importance of Everyday Assessment”

Everyday Earth and Space Science Mysteries: Stories for Inquiry-Based Science Teaching by Richard Konicek-Moran (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “The Little Tent That Cried”

Everyday Life Science Mysteries: Stories for Inquiry-Based Science Teaching by Richard Konicek-Moran (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “Seedlings in a Jar”

Everyday Physical Science Mysteries: Stories for Inquiry-Based Science Teaching by Richard Konicek-Moran (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “How Cold Is Cold?”

Everyday Science Mysteries: Stories for Inquiry-Based Science Teaching by Richard Konicek-Moran (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “Conclusion”

The Everyday Science Sourcebook, Revised 2nd Edition: Ideas for Teaching in Elementary and Middle School by Lawrence F. Lowery (K–8)
    • Free chapter:  “Weather”

Exemplary Science for Building Interest in STEM Careers edited by Robert E. Yager
    • Free chapter: “Science Beyond the Laboratory: The Intriguing Career Paths of 14 Scientists and Engineers”

Force and Motion: Stop Faking It! Finally Understanding Science So You Can Teach It by William C. Robertson (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “Newton’s First One”

Helping Students Make Sense of the World Using Next Generation Science and Engineering Practices by Christina V. Schwarz, Cynthia Passmore, and Brian J. Reiser
    • Free chapter: “Developing and Using Models”

Inside-Out: Environmental Science in the Classroom and the Field, Grades 3–8 by Robert W. Blake Jr., J. Adam Frederick, Sarah Haines, and Stephanie Colby Lee
    • Free chapter: "Water"

Integrating Engineering and Science in Your Classroom edited by Eric Brunsell
    • Free chapter: “Get a Grip! A Middle School Engineering Challenge”

Introducing Teachers and Administrators to the NGSS: A Professional Development Facilitator's Guide by Eric Brunsell, Deb M. Kneser, and Kevin J. Niemi
    • Free chapter: “Introducing the NGSS

It's Debatable! Using Socioscientific Issues to Develop Scientific Literacy, K–12 by Dana L. Zeidler and Sami Kahn
    • Free chapter: “A Need for Speed? Should Speed Limits Be Lowered to Reduce Traffic Fatalities?”

Learning and Teaching Scientific Inquiry: Research and Applications by James Jadrich and Crystal Bruxvoort (K–8)
    • Free chapter: "Designing Scientific Tests and Investigations"

Light: Stop Faking It! Finally Understanding Science So You Can Teach It by William C. Robertson (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “Light–The Early Years”

Making Sense of Science and Religion: Strategies for the Classroom and Beyond by Joseph W. Shane, Lee Meadows, Ronald S. Hermann, and Ian C. Binns (K–12)
    • Free chapter: “Science and Religion in Middle School and High School Classrooms”

Models and Approaches to STEM Professional Development by Brenda Wojnowski and Celestine Pea
    • Free chapter: “The Importance of Viable Models in the Construction of Professional Development”

More Brain-Powered Science: Teaching and Learning With Discrepant Events by Thomas O'Brien (5–12)
    • Free chapter: "Measurements and Molecules Matter: Less Is More and Curriculum 'Survival of the Fittest'" (properties of materials, structure and properties of matter)

More Chemistry Basics: Stop Faking It! Finally Understanding Science So You Can Teach It by William C. Robertson (5–12)
    • Free chapter: "Special Reactions"

More Everyday Science Mysteries: Stories for Inquiry-Based Science Teaching by Richard Konicek-Moran (K–8)
    • Free chapter: "Worms Are for More Than Bait" (life cycles; animal behavior)

The New Science Teacher's Handbook: What You Didn't Learn From Student Teaching by Sarah Reeves Young and Mike Roberts
    • Free chapter: “Starting Class the Right Way: Starter Activities”

NGSS for All Students by Okhee Lee, Emily Miller, and Rita Januszyk
    • Free chapter: “Students With Disabilities and the Next Generation Science Standards

NSTA Guide to Planning School Science Facilities, Second Edition by LaMoine L. Motz , James T. Biehle, and Sandra S. West
    • Free chapter: “Designing Facilities for the Elementary School”

The NSTA Quick-Reference Guide to the NGSS, K–12 edited by Ted Willard
    • Free chapter: “K–12 Progressions”

The NSTA Reader's Guide to the Next Generation Science Standards by Harold Pratt
    • Free chapter: “Introduction to the NGSS

The NSTA Ready-Reference Guide to Safer Science, Volume 2 by Kenneth Russell Roy (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “Introduction to Safety in Science”

Outdoor Science: A Practical Guide by Steve Rich (K–8)
    • Free chapter: "Birds, Bugs, and Butterflies: Science Lessons for Your Outdoor Classroom"

Problem-Based Learning in the Earth and Space Science Classroom, K–12 by Tom J. McConnell, Joyce Parker, and Janet Eberhardt
    • Free chapter: “Facilitating Problem-Based Learning”

Problem-Based Learning in the Life Science Classroom, K–12 by Tom J. McConnell, Joyce Parker, and Janet Eberhardt
    • Free chapter: “Facilitating Problem-Based Learning”

Problem-Based Learning in the Physical Science Classroom, K–12 by Tom J. McConnell, Joyce Parker, and Janet Eberhardt
    • Free chapter: “Facilitating Problem-Based Learning”

Project Earth Science: Astronomy, Revised 2nd Edition by Geoff Holt and Nancy W. West
    • Free chapter: "The Greenhouse Effect"

Project Earth Science: Geology, Revised 2nd Edition by Paul D. Fullagar and Nancy W. West
    • Free chapter: "Solid or Liquid? Rock Behavior Within Earth"

Project Earth Science: Physical Oceanography, 2nd Edition by Alfredo L. Aretxabaleta, Gregg R. Brooks, and Nancy W. West
    • Free chapter: "A Pile of Water"

Science Fair Warm-Up, Teachers Guide: Learning the Practice of Scientists by John Haysom
    • Free chapter:  “Variables and Their Controls”

Science for English Language Learners: K–12 Classroom Strategies edited by Ann K. Fathman and David T. Crowther
    • Free chapter: “Teaching English Through Science and Science Through English”

Sound: Stop Faking It! Finally Understanding Science So You Can Teach It by William C. Robertson (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “Stop Children, What’s That Sound?”

Staging Family Science Nights by Donna Governor and Denise Webb (K–12)
    • Free chapter: “Overture”

STEM Education Now More Than Ever by Rodger W. Bybee
    • Free chapter: “Designing Innovative STEM Units”

Teaching Energy Across the Sciences, K–12 edited by Jeff Nordine
    • Free chapter: “Talking About Energy”

Teaching for Conceptual Understanding in Science by Richard Konicek-Moran and Page Keeley
    • Free chapter:  “An Overview”

Teaching Science to English Language Learners: Building on Students’ Strengths edited by Ann S. Rosebery and Beth Warren (K–8)
    • Free chapter: “Essay: Creating a Foundation Through Student Conversation”

Team Teaching Science: Success for All Learners by Ed Linz, Mary Jane Heater, and Lori A. Howard
    • Free chapter: "Team Teaching Science at the High School Level”

Translating the NGSS for Classroom Instruction by Rodger W. Bybee
    • Free chapter: “From NGSS to Classroom Instruction”

Uncovering Student Ideas in Astronomy: 45 New Formative Assessment Probes by Page Keeley and Cary Sneider
    • Free chapter: "Shorter Days in Winter"

Uncovering Student Ideas in Earth and Environmental Science: 32 New Formative Assessment Probes by Page Keeley and Laura Tucker (3–12)
    • Free chapter: “Groundwater”

Uncovering Student Ideas in Life Science, Volume 1: 25 New Formative Assessment Probes by Page Keeley
    • Free chapter: “The Virus Debate”

Uncovering Student Ideas in Physical Science, Volume 1: 45 New Force and Motion Assessment Probes by Page Keeley and Rand Harrington
    • Free chapter: "Just Rolling Along"

Uncovering Student Ideas in Physical Science, Volume 2: 39 New Electricity and Magnetism Formative Assessment Probes by Page Keeley and Rand Harrington
    • Free chapter: “How Bright Will the Bulbs Be?”

Uncovering Student Ideas in Physical Science, Volume 3: 32 New Matter and Energy Formative Assessment Probes by Page Keeley and Susan Cooper (3–12)
    • Free chapter: “Concept of Matter and Particle Model of Matter”

Uncovering Student Ideas in Science, Volume 1, Second Edition: 25 Formative Assessment Probes by Page Keeley
    • Free chapter: “Cookie Crumbles”

Uncovering Student Ideas in Science, Volume 2: 25 More Formative Assessment Probes by Page Keeley, Francis Eberle, and Joyce Tugel
    • Free chapter: “What’s in the Bubbles?”

Uncovering Student Ideas in Science, Volume 3: Another 25 Formative Assessment Probes by Page Keeley, Francis Eberle, and Chad Dorsey
    • Free chapter: “Pennies”

Uncovering Student Ideas in Science, Volume 4: 25 New Formative Assessment Probes by Joyce Tugel and Page Keeley
    • Free chapter: “Catching a Cold”

Yet More Everyday Science Mysteries: Stories for Inquiry-Based Science Teaching by Richard Konicek-Moran (K–8)
    • Free chapter: "Lookin' at Lichens" (characteristics of organisms, organisms and environments)

Preschool/Elementary-only

Activities Linking Science With Math, K–4 by John Eichinger
    • Free chapter: "What Makes a Boat Float?"

Argument-Driven Inquiry in Third-Grade Science: Three-Dimensional Investigations by Victor Sampson and Ashley Murphy
    • Free chapter: "Why Do Wolves Live in Groups?"

Argument-Driven Inquiry in Fourth-Grade Science: Three-Dimensional Investigations by Victor Sampson and Ashley Murphy
    • Free chapter: "Movement of Water"

Bringing STEM to the Elementary Classroom edited by Linda Froschauer
    • Free chapter: “A House for Chase the Dog”

Eureka! Grade 3–5 Science Activities and Stories by Donna Farland-Smith and Julie Thomas 
    • Free chapter: “Scientists and Engineers Are Imaginative”

Eureka, Again! K–2 Science Activities and Stories by Donna Farland-Smith and Julie Thomas 
    • Free chapter: “Scientists and Engineers are Catalysts”

Even More Picture-Perfect Science Lessons: Using Children's Books to Guide Inquiry, K–5 by Emily Morgan and Karen Ansberry 
    • Free chapter: "The Wind Blew"

Exemplary Science in Grades PreK–4: Standards-Based Success Stories edited by Robert E. Yager and Sandra K. Enger
    • Free chapter: “Building on the Natural Wonder Inherent in Us All”

The Frugal Science Teacher, PreK–5: Strategies and Activities edited by Linda Froschauer 
    • Free chapter: "Materials Repurposed: Find a Wealth of Free Resources at Your Local Recycling Center"

Harnessing Solar Energy, Grade 4: STEM Road Map for Elementary School edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Module Overview”

A Head Start on Life Science: Encouraging a Sense of Wonder by William Straits
    • Free chapter: “Science for Young Children”

A Head Start on Science, Second Edition: Encouraging a Sense of Wonder, edited by William C. Ritz and William Straits
    • Free chapter: "Introduction, Simple Graphing, and Nature Walks"

Hop Into Action: The Amphibian Curriculum Guide for Grades K–4 by David Alexander
    • Free chapter: "Lily Pad Venn Diagrams"

Influence of Waves, Grade 1: STEM Road Map for Elementary School, edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: "Module Overview"

Inquiring Scientists, Inquiring Readers: Using Nonfiction to Promote Science Literacy, Grades 3–5 by Jessica Fries-Gaither and Terry Shiverdecker
    • Free chapter: “Beaks and Biomes: Understanding Adaptation in Migrating Organisms”

Instructional Sequence Matters, Grades 3–5: Explore Before Explain by Patrick Brown
    • Free chapter: “A Natural Storyline for Learning About Ecosystems”

Investigating Environmental Changes, Grade 2: STEM Road Map for Elementary School, edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Module Overview”

It's Still Debatable! Using Socioscientific Issues to Develop Scientific Literacy, K–5 by Sami Kahn
    • Free chapter: “Introduction”

More Picture-Perfect Science Lessons: Using Children's Books to Guide Inquiry, K–4 by Karen Ansberry and Emily Morgan 
    • Free chapter: "Imaginative Inventions"

Natural Hazards, Grade 2: STEM Road Map for Elementary School, edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: "Module Overview"

The NSTA Quick-Reference Guide to the NGSS, Elementary School edited by Ted Willard
    • Free chapter: “K–12 Progressions: Elementary School”

Packaging Design, Grade 6: STEM Road Map for Middle School by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Model Overview”

Patterns and the Plant World, Grade 1: STEM Road Map for Elementary School by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Model Overview”

Physics in Motion, Grade K: STEM Road Map for Elementary School, edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Model Overview”

Picture-Perfect Science Lessons, Expanded 2nd Edition: Using Children's Books to Guide Inquiry, 3–6 by Karen Ansberry and Emily Morgan 
    • Free chapter: "Earth Hounds: Dr. Xargle's Book of Earth Hounds and Seven Blind Mice" (observation and inference)

Picture-Perfect STEM Lessons, K–2: Using Children’s Books to Inspire STEM Learning by Emily Morgan and Karen Ansberry
    • Free chapter: Preface and “Robots Everywhere”

Picture-Perfect STEM Lessons, 3–5: Using Children’s Books to Inspire STEM Learning by Emily Morgan and Karen Ansberry 
    • Free chapter: Preface and “The Inventor’s Secret”

The Power of Assessing: Guiding Powerful Practices by Lisa M. Nyberg and Julie V. McGough
    • Free chapter: “How Does Metacognition Support Instructional Decision Making?”

The Power of Investigating: Guiding Authentic Assessments by Julie V. McGough and Lisa M. Nyberg
    • Free chapter: “How Do I Integrate Investigations?”

The Power of Questioning: Guiding Student Investigations by Julie V. McGough and Lisa M. Nyberg
    • Free chapter: “Why Does Skill in Questioning Engage Students in Purposeful Standards-Based Learning?”

Rainwater Analysis, Grade 5: STEM Road Map for Elementary School, edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Module Overview”

Science for the Next Generation: Preparing for the New Standards edited by William Banko, Marshall L. Grant, Michael E. Jabot, Alan J. McCormack, and Thomas O'Brien
    • Free chapter: “5E(z) Guidelines for Designing Research-Informed Science Lesson Sequences”

Science Learning in the Early Years: Activities for PreK–2 by Peggy Ashbrook
    • Free chapter: “Rocks Tell a Story”

Start Young! Early Childhood Science Activities edited by Shannan McNair
    • Free chapter: “Start Young”

Swing Set Makeover Grade 3: STEM Road Map for Elementary School by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Model Overview”

Teaching Science Through Trade Books by Christine Anne Royce, Emily Morgan, and Karen Ansberry
    • Free chapter: "Cloud Watchers"

Transportation in the Future, Grade 3: STEM Road Map for Elementary School edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Module Overview”

Uncovering Student Ideas in Primary Science, Volume 1: 25 New Formative Assessment Probes for Grades K–2 by Page Keeley
    • Free chapter: “Is It Made of Parts?”

Using Physical Science Gadgets and Gizmos, Grades 3–5: Phenomenon-Based Learning by Matthew Bobrowsky, Mikko Korhonen, and Jukka Kohtamäki
    • Free chapter: “Electricity”

What Are They Thinking? Promoting Elementary Learning Through Formative Assessment by Page Keeley
    • Free chapter: “Pushes and Pulls”

Wind Energy, Grade 5: STEM Road Map for Elementary School edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Module Overview”

Middle School/High School-only

Activities Linking Science With Math, 5–8 by John Eichinger 
    • Free chapter: "Designing and Constructing a Load-Bearing Structure"

Adventures With Arthropods: Eco-Friendly Lessons for Middle School by Ron Wagler 
    • Free chapter: “Lessons Using Captive-Bred Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches”

Amusement Park of the Future, Grade 6: STEM Road Map for Middle School edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Module Overview”

Argument-Driven Inquiry in Biology: Lab Investigations for Grades 9–12 by Victor Sampson, Patrick Enderle, Leeanne Gleim, Jonathon Grooms, Melanie Hester, Sherry A. Southerland, and Kristin Wilson
    • Free chapter: “Explanations for Animal Behavior”

Argument-Driven Inquiry in Chemistry: Lab Investigations for Grades 9–12 by Victor Sampson, Peter Carafano, Patrick Enderle, Steve Fannin, Jonathon Grooms, Sherry Southerland, Carol Stallworth, and Kiesha Williams
    • Free chapter: “Characteristics of Acids and Bases”

Argument-Driven Inquiry in Earth and Space Science: Lab Investigations for Grades 6–10 by Victor Sampson, Ashley Murphy, Kemper Lipscomb, and Todd L. Hutner
    • Free chapter: “Introduction and Lab Seven”

Argument-Driven Inquiry in Life Science: Lab Investigations for Grades 6–8 by Patrick J. Enderle, Ruth Bickel, Leeanne K. Gleim, Ellen Granger, Jonathon Grooms, Melanie Hester, Ashley Murphy, Victor Sampson, and Sherry A. Southerland
    • Free chapter:  “Environmental Change and Evolution”

Argument-Driven Inquiry in Physical Science: Lab Investigations for Grades 6–8 by Jonathon Grooms, Patrick J. Enderle, Todd Hutner, Ashley Murphy, and Victor Sampson
    • Free chapter: “Potential Energy”

Argument-Driven Inquiry in Physics, Volume 1: Mechanics Lab Investigations for Grades 9–12 by Victor Sampson, Todd L. Hutner, Daniel FitzPatrick, Adam LaMee, and Jonathon Grooms 
    • Free chapter: Introduction and Lab: “Falling Objects and Air Resistance”

The Basics of Data Literacy: Helping Your Students (and You!) Make Sense of Data by Michael Bowen and Anthony Bartley
    • Free chapter: “Simple Statistics for Science Teachers”

Becoming a Responsive Science Teacher: Focusing on Student Thinking in Secondary Science by Daniel Levin, David Hammer, Andrew Elby, and Janet Coffey
    • Free chapter: “The Owls and the Snakes”

Beyond the Egg Drop: Infusing Engineering Into High School Physics by Arthur Eisenkraft and Shu-Yee Chen Freake
    • Free chapter: “Engineering Infusion With Waves”

Building the Science Department: Stories of Success by Wayne Melville, Doug Jones, and Todd Campbell
    • Free chapter: “The Content of Professional Learning”

Car Crashes, Grade 12: STEM Road Map for High School by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Model Overview”

Citizen Science: 15 Lessons That Bring Biology to Life, 6–12 edited by Nancy Trautmann, Jennifer Fee, Terry M. Tomasek, and NancyLee R. Bergey
    • Free chapter: “Bird Migration Patterns in My Area”

Climate Change From Pole to Pole: Biology Investigations by Juanita Constible, Luke Sandro, and Richard E. Lee Jr. 
    • Free chapter: "Climate and Life" and "Now You 'Sea' Ice, Now You Don't" (living systems; interdependence of organisms; importance of evidence in formulating scientific explanations)

Clones, Cats, and Chemicals: Thinking Scientifically About Controversial Issues by Irwin Slesnick
    • Free chapter: “Here Come the Clones”

Companion Classroom Activities for Stop Faking It! Force and Motion by William C. Robertson, Ph.D.
    • Free chapter: "Acceleration"

Construction Materials, Grade 11: STEM Road Map for High School edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Module Overview”

Creating Engineering Design Challenges: Success Stories From Teachers, edited by Helen Meyer, Anant R. Kukreti, Debora Liberi, and Julie Steimle (6–12)
    • Free chapter: “Engineering Design Challenges”

Diagnosis for Classroom Success, Teacher Edition: Making Anatomy and Physiology Come Alive by Nicole H. Maller
    • Free chapter: “Teacher Guide for Let’s Diagnose Them, Lab 3: Blood Smears”

Discovery Engineering in Biology: Case Studies for Grades 6–12 by Rebecca Hite, Gina Childers, Megan Ennes, and M. Gail Jones
    • Free chapter: “The Triumph of the Pika”

Discovery Engineering in Physical Science: Case Studies for Grades 6–12 by M. Gail Jones, Elysa Corin, Megan Ennes, Emily Cayton, and Gina Childers
    • Free chapter: “Velcro: Engineering Mimics Nature”

Dive In! Immersion in Science Practices for High School Students by Karen J. Graham, Lara M. Gengarelly, Barbara A. Hopkins, and Melissa A. Lombard 
    • Free chapter: “A Grassroots Effort”

Doing Good Science in Middle School, Expanded 2nd Edition: A Practical STEM Guide by Olaf Jorgenson, Rick Vanosdall, Vicki Massey, and Jackie Cleveland
    • Free chapter: “Activity 5: Some Striped Seeds Seem Similar! Biology: Genetic Variation”

Earth Science Puzzles: Making Meaning From Data by Kim Kastens and Margie Turrin 
    • Free chapter: "How Do We Know What the Climate Was Like in the Past?"

Engineering in the Life Sciences, 9–12 by Rodney L. Custer, Jenny L. Daugherty, Julia M. Ross, Katheryn B. Kennedy, and Cory Culbertson
    • Free chapter: "Engineering in the Life Sciences"

Everyday Engineering: Putting the E in STEM Teaching and Learning by Richard Moyer and Susan Everett
    • Free chapter: “Toothbrush Design—Is There a Better Bristle?”

EVO Teachers Guide: Ten Questions Everyone Should Ask About Evolution by Rodger W. Bybee and John Feldman
    • Free chapter: "Is Evolution Random?”

Exemplary Science in Grades 5–8: Standards-Based Success Stories edited by Robert E. Yager
    • Free chapter: “Teach Them to Fish”

Exemplary Science in Grades 9–12: Standards-Based Success Stories edited by Robert E. Yager
    • Free chapter: “It's the "Little Things" That Can Change the Way You Teach”

Extreme Science: From Nano to Galactic by M. Gail Jones, Amy R. Taylor, and Michael R. Falvo 
    • Free chapter: "Billions of Us: Scale and Population"

The Feedback Loop: Using Formative Assessment Data for Science Teaching and Learning by Erin Marie Furtak, Howard M. Glasser, and Zora M. Wolfe 
    • Free chapter: “Collecting Data”

Forensics in Chemistry: The Case of Kirsten K. by Sara McCubbins and Angela Codron
    • Free chapter: "The Cooler and Delivery Truck Evidence" (structure and properties of matter)

Front-Page Science: Engaging Teens in Science Literacy by Wendy Saul, Angela Kohnen, Alan Newman, and Laura Pearce
    • Free chapter: "Can I Do This? Frequently Asked Questions"

The Frugal Science Teacher, 6–9: Strategies and Activities edited by Linda Froschauer 
    • Free chapter: “Making Mendel’s Model Manageable”

Gourmet Lab: The Scientific Principles Behind Your Favorite Foods by Sarah Young
    • Free chapter: "Ballpark Pretzels: Using Microscopes to Observe Yeast Fermentation of Sugar"

Hard-to-Teach Biology Concepts, Revised 2nd Edition: Designing Instruction Aligned to the NGSSby Susan Koba and Anne Tweed
    • Free chapter: “Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems”

Help! I'm Teaching Middle School Science by C. Jill Swango and Sally Boles Steward
    • Free chapter: “Metrics and Measurement”

If You Build It, They Will Learn: 17 Devices for Demonstrating Physical Science by Bruce Yeany
    • Free chapter: “Inertia Block”

Improving Bridge Design, Grade 8: STEM Road Map for Middle School edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Module Overview”

Including Students With Disabilities in Advanced Science Classes by Lori A. Howard and Elizabeth A. Potts
    • Free chapter: “Classroom Considerations: Behavior”

Inquiring Scientists, Inquiring Readers in Middle School: Using Nonfiction to Promote Science Literacy by Terry Shiverdecker and Jessica Fries-Gaither
    • Free chapter: “Landfill Recovery”

Instructional Sequence Matters, Grades 6–8: Structuring Lessons With the NGSS in Mind by Patrick Brown
    • Free chapter: “Teaching About Heat and Temperature Using an Investigative Demonstration”

Learning to Read the Earth and Sky: Explorations Supporting the NGSS, Grades 6–12 by Russ Colson and Mary Colson
    • Free chapter: “Analyzing and Interpreting Data, Part 1”

Making Science Mentors: A 10-Session Guide for Middle Grades by Bernie Zubrowski, Vivian Troen, and Marian Pasquale
    • Free chapter: “Session 1”

Matter and Energy for Growth and Activity, Teacher Edition by AAAS/Project 2061 (9–12)
    • Free chapter: “Introduction” and “Matter Changes in the Human Body”

More Everyday Engineering: Putting the E in STEM Teaching and Learning by Richard H. Moyer and Susan A. Everett
    • Free chapter: “UV or Not UV: That Is a Question for Your Sunglasses”

Nanoscale Science: Activities for Grades 6–12 by M. Gail Jones, Michael R. Falvo, Amy R. Taylor, and Bethany P. Broadwell
    • Free chapter: “Biological Nanomachines: Viruses”

The NSTA Quick-Reference Guide to the NGSS, High School edited by Ted Willard
    • Free chapter: “K–12 Progressions, High School”

The NSTA Quick-Reference Guide to the NGSS, Middle School edited by Ted Willard
    • Free chapter: “K–12 Progressions, Middle School”

The NSTA Ready-Reference Guide to Safer Science, Volume 3 by Kenneth Russell Roy
    • Free chapter: “Introduction to Safety in Science”

Once Upon an Earth Science Book: 12 Interdisciplinary Activities to Create Confident Readers by Jodi Wheeler-Toppen
    • Free chapter: “Continents on the Move”

Once Upon a Life Science Book: 12 Interdisciplinary Activities to Create Confident Readers by Jodi Wheeler-Toppen
    • Free chapter: "The Case of the Tree Hit Man"

Packaging Design, Grade 6: STEM Road Map for Middle School edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Module Overview”

Predict, Observe, Explain: Activities Enhancing Scientific Understanding by John Haysom and Michael Bowen
    • Free chapter: "Understanding Force and Motion"

Quantoons by Larry D. Kirkpatrick and Arthur Eisenkraft
    • Free chapter: “A Snail That Moves Like Light” 

Radioactivity, Grade 11: STEM Road Map for High School, edited by Carla C. Johnson, Janet B. Walton, and Erin Peters-Burton
    • Free chapter: “Module Overview”

Reading Nature: Engaging Biology Students With Evidence From the Living World by Matthew Kloser and Sophia Grathwol
    • Free chapter: “From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes” 

Reimagining the Science Department by Wayne Melville, Doug Jones, and Todd Campbell
    • Free chapter: “Roles and Responsibilities”

Resources for Environmental Literacy: Five Teaching Modules for Middle and High School Teachers by Environmental Literacy Council and NSTA
    • Free chapter: “The Environmental Context”

Science Fair Warm-Up, Grades 7–10: Learning the Practice of Scientists by John Haysom
    • Free chapter: “The Numbers Game: Are Some Measures Better Than Others?”

Science Fair Warm-Up, Grades 8–12: Learning the Practice of Scientists by John Haysom
    • Free chapter: “Isolating Variables: Reducing Complexity”

Scientific Argumentation in Biology: 30 Classroom Activities by Victor Sampson and Sharon Schleigh
    • Free chapter: “Classifying Birds in the United States”

Solar Science: Exploring Sunspots, Seasons, Eclipses, and More by Dennis Schatz and Andrew Fraknoi
    • Free chapter: “Solar Activity and Space Weather”

STEM Student Research Handbook by Darci J. Harland
    • Free chapter: "Research Design"

Supporting Emergent Multilingual Learners in Science, Grades 7–12 by Molly Weinburgh, Cecilia Silva, and Kathy Horak Smith
    • Free chapter: "Introduction"

Take-Home Physics: 65 High-Impact, Low-Cost Labs by Michael Horton 
    • Free chapter: "Bernoulli’s Principle"

This Is Your Brain: Teaching About Neuroscience and Addiction Research by Terra Nova Learning Systems
    • Free chapter: “How Do Drugs Affect the Brain?”

Toward High School Biology: Understanding Growth in Living Things, Teacher Edition by AAAS/Project 2061 
    • Free chapter: Introduction and one lesson from Chapter 1

Tried and True: Time-Tested Activities for Middle School edited by Inez Liftig
    • Free chapter: "How the Brain Visually Perceives the World"

Understanding Climate Change, Grades 7–12 by Laura Tucker and Lois Sherwood
    • Free chapter: "What Have You Heard About Climate Change?"

Using Physical Science Gadgets and Gizmos, Grades 6–8: Phenomenon-Based Learning by Matthew Bobrowsky, Mikko Korhonen, and Jukka Kohtamäki
    • Free chapter: “Air Pressure”

Using Physics Gadgets and Gizmos, Grades 9–12: Phenomenon-Based Learning by Matthew Bobrowsky, Mikko Korhonen, and Jukka Kohtamäki
    • Free chapter: “Two-Dimensional Motion”

Virus and the Whale: Exploring Evolution in Creatures Small and Large edited by Judy Diamond, with Carl Zimmer, Linda Allison, E. Margaret Evans, and Sarah Disbrow 
    • Free chapter: "Diatoms: One-Celled Wonders"

Watershed Dynamics (Student Edition) by William S. Carlsen, Nancy M. Trautmann, and the Environmental Inquiry Team
    • Free chapter: “Introduction to Watershed Dynamics”

Watershed Investigations: 12 Labs for High School Science by Jennifer Soukhome, Graham Peaslee, Carl Van Faasen, and William Statema 
    • Free chapter: "Plant Identification"

Welcome to Nanoscience: Interdisciplinary Environmental Explorations, Grades 9–12 by Andrew S. Madden, Michael F. Hochella Jr., George E. Glasson, Julie R. Grady, Tracy L. Bank, André M. Green, Mary A. Norris, Andrew N. Hurst, and Susan C. Eriksson
    • Free chapter: "Introduction to Nanotechnology"

You Want Me to Teach What? Sure-Fire Methods for Teaching Physical Science and Math by Norman LaFave
    • Free chapter: "Yes, Virginia, Study Habits and Learning Techniques Are Key!"

College

Exemplary College Science Teaching edited by Robert E. Yager
    • Free chapter: “Students Teaching Students: Jigsawing Through an Environmental Biology Course”

Favorite Demonstrations for College Science edited by Brian R. Shmaefsky
    • Free chapter: “A Bright Idea: Reinforcing Logico-Deductive Reasoning”

Preparing Teachers for Three-Dimensional Instruction edited by Jack Rhoton
    • Free chapter: “Constructing Explanatory Arguments Based on Evidence Gathered While Investigating Natural Phenomena in a Methods Course for Middle School Teachers”

Science Stories You Can Count On: 51 Case Studies With Quantitative Reasoning in Biology by Clyde Freeman Herreid, Nancy A. Schiller, and Ky F. Herreid
    • Free chapter: “A Can of Bull? Do Energy Drinks Really Provide a Source of Energy?”

Teaching Science in the Two-Year College: An NSTA Press Journals Collection
    • Free chapter: “Hello! Is Anybody Out There?”

Teacher Professional Development

Be a Winner! A Science Teacher’s Guide to Writing Successful Grant Proposals by Patty McGinnis and Kitchka Petrova
    • Free chapter: “Getting Started: May the FORCE Be With You”

The BSCS 5E Instructional Model: Creating Teachable Moments by Rodger W. Bybee
    • Free chapter: “Using the 5E Model to Implement the Next Generation Science Standards

Connecting With Nature: A Naturalist's Perspective by Robert Stebbins
    • Free chapter: "Goals of an Ecological Approach"

Exemplary Science for Resolving Societal Challenges edited by Robert E. Yager
    • Free chapter: "Linking Science, Technology, and Society by Examining the Impact of Nanotechnology on a Local Community"

Exemplary Science in Informal Education Settings: Standards-Based Success Stories edited by Robert E. Yager and John H. Falk
    • Free chapter: “Science with Attitude: An Informal Science Education Experience”

Inquiry: The Key to Exemplary Science edited by Robert E. Yager
    • Free chapter: “Student Inquiry and Research: Developing Students’ Authentic Inquiry Skills”

The Lingo of Learning: 88 Education Terms Every Science Teacher Should Know by Alan Colburn
    • Free chapter: “Educational Outcomes”

Models-Based Science Teaching by Steven W. Gilbert
    • Free chapter: "Models and Science Teaching”

Perspectives on Science Education: A Leadership Seminar by Rodger Bybee and Stephen Pruitt
    • Free chapter: “National Standards: Policies for Science Education”

Professional Learning Communities for Science Teaching: Lessons From Research and Practice edited by Susan Mundry and Katherine E. Stiles
    • Free chapter: "‘Late-Start’ Mondays: The Catalyst for Change in an Urban High School”

Rise and Shine: A Practical Guide for the Beginning Science Teacher by Linda Froschauer and Mary L. Bigelow
    • Free chapter: "The First Week of School"

Science Education Leadership: Best Practices for the New Century edited by Jack Rhoton
    • Free chapter: "A New Challenge for Science Education Leaders: Developing 21st-Century Workforce Skills"

Science Stories: Using Case Studies to Teach Critical Thinking by Clyde Freeman Herreid, Nancy A. Schiller, and Ky F. Herreid
    • Free chapter: "Selecting the Perfect Baby: The Ethics of 'Embryo Design'”

Science Teaching as a Profession: Why It Isn't, How It Could Be by Sheila Tobias and Anne Baffert
    • Free chapter: "The Essentials Under Siege"

The Teaching of Science: 21st-Century Perspectives by Rodger W. Bybee
    • Free chapter: "A Perspective on the Reform of Science Teaching"

Children's Books (sample pages)

Animals Two by Two by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
The Beaks of Birds by Richard Konicek-Moran and Kathleen Konicek-Moran Sample pages
Clouds, Rain, Clouds Again by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Dark as a Shadow by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Environments of Our Earth by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Exemplary Evidence: Scientists and Their Data by Jessica Fries-Gaither Sample pages
Fragrant as a Flower by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
From Flower to Fruit by Richard Konicek-Moran and Kathleen Konicek-Moran Sample pages
How Does a Plant Grow? by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
How Does the Wind Blow? by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
How Tall Was Milton? by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
La próxima vez que veas la luna (Next Time You See the Moon in Spanish) by Emily Morgan Sample pages
La próxima vez que veas una cochinilla (Next Time You See a Pill Bug in Spanish) by Emily Morgan Sample pages
La próxima vez que veas una puesta del sol (Next Time You See a Sunset in Spanish) by Emily Morgan Sample pages
Light and Color by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Look and See by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Looking for Animals by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Michael’s Racing Machine by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Mrs. Carter’s Butterfly Garden by Steve Rich Sample pages
My School Yard Garden by Steve Rich Sample pages
Never Stop Wondering by Emily Morgan Sample pages
Next Time You See a Bee by Emily Morgan Sample pages
Next Time You See a Cloud by Emily Morgan Sample pages
Next Time You See a Firefly by Emily Morgan Sample pages
Next Time You See a Maple Seed by Emily Morgan Sample pages
Next Time You See a Pill Bug by Emily Morgan Sample pages
Next Time You See a Seashell by Emily Morgan Sample pages
Next Time You See a Spiderweb by Emily Morgan Sample pages
Next Time You See a Sunset by Emily Morgan Sample pages
Next Time You See the Moon by Emily Morgan Sample pages
Notable Notebooks by Jessica Fries-Gaither Sample pages
Our Very Own Tree by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Quiet as a Butterfly by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Rubber vs. Glass by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Sounds Are High, Sounds Are Low by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Spenser and the Rocks by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
The Tree by Diane’s House by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
Up, Up in a Balloon by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
What Can an Animal Do? by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
What Does an Animal Eat? by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
What Makes Different Sounds? by Lawrence F. Lowery Sample pages
When the Sun Goes Dark by Andrew Fraknoi and Dennis Schatz Sample pages
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