From the Great Explorations in Math & Science (GEMS) series developed by the Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California, Berkeley for the advancement of inquiry-based science and mathematics education . . .

Invisible Universe: The Electromagnetic Spectrum from Radio Waves to Gamma Rays. GEMS Teacher's Guide, Grades 6-8

Students unveil our dynamic relationship with the Sun through a space-weather mystery, a mock mission from Earth's atmosphere to outer space, ultraviolet experiments, and more. This NASA-inspired unit focuses on the impact of electromagnetic energy and solar particles on Earth. CD-ROM included. For grades 6-8.

• LT-37: Invisible Universe 118 pp. $21.00

Living with a Star: From Sunscreen to Space Weather. GEMS Teacher's Guide, Grades 6-8

Students unveil our dynamic relationship with the Sun through a space-weather mystery, a mock mission from Earth's atmosphere to outer space, ultraviolet experiments, and more. This NASA-inspired unit focuses on the impact of electromagnetic energy and solar particles on Earth. CD-ROM included. For grades 6-8.

• LT-36: Living with a Star 172 pp. plus CD $28.00

The Real Reasons for Seasons: Sun–Earth Connections

Students arrive at a clear understanding of seasons as they investigate the connections between the Sun and Earth. They gain important standards-based science and math content and develop scientific investigation skills. Includes a CD-ROM. For grades 6-8.

• LT-35: The Real Reasons for Seasons 140 pp. plus CD $25.50

Students investigate light and color using diffraction gratings and color filters (available separately). A background section plus concise information on color, light, and how the eye and brain sense and comprehend color is included. The front cover contains a secret message! Grades 5-9.

• LT-30: Color Analyzers 80pp. $21.00
• PS-08C: DIffraction Grating (5" x 5") with Filters $8.25

In this unit of 4 activities, students use two lenses to create optical instruments and find out how lenses are used in magnifiers, simple cameras, telescopes, and slide projectors. Focusing on physics, optics, and light, it is a great companion to Color Analyzers. A background section is included. Grades 6-9.

• LT-31: More Than Magnifiers (book) 68pp. $10.50
  (Lenses are available from Carolina Biological Supply.)

In this unit, students recreate Galileo’s historic telescopic observations of Jupiter’s moons. Students learn how craters are formed; make scale models; and see Jupiter as viewed by the Voyager spacecraft. Students also work in teams to create a settlement on one of the moons of Jupiter. Background information and a box of 23 color slides is provided.

• LT-33: Moons of Jupiter 12pp. $18.00
  (A box of 23 color slides is available from Carolina Biological Supply.)

In four sessions, students investigate and analyze the properties of the strange green substance, Oobleck, said to come from another planet. Includes a large poster illustrating the Mars Viking mission. The Oobleck unit provides students with authentic insight into the real work of scientists. For grades 4-8.

• LT-34: Oobleck 40pp. $10.50

Students study the Earth, gravity, and astronomy, focusing on the shape of the Earth and gravity; moon phases and eclipses; and the stars. Six activities include observing and recording changes in the sky and creating models to explain observations. A challenging questionnaire can be used as a pre- and post-test assessment tool. This interdisciplinary unit also explores world cultures through myths about the rising and setting of the sun. Grades 5-9.

• LT-32: Earth, Moon, and Stars 100pp. $16.00