Whether you are just embarking on your career or have 20 years teaching experience under your belt, education professionals seem to always be on the hunt for new learning activities and free teacher resources to liven up their curriculum. Fortunately, with the power of the internet, comprehensive lesson plans and high-quality printables can be just a few clicks away. Here are three sites that are worth exploring.
PBS Teachers Offers Free Teacher Support and Classroom Ideas
One of the most comprehensive teacher resource sites can be found at PBS Teachers. The newly re-designed site from the Public Broadcasting Service offers a discussion board, professional development opportunities and classroom activities.
The free lesson plans generally revolve around current PBS programming. You can find classroom discussion questions as well as hands-on activities related to the program’s subject. There are also interactive learning games for your students and activity packs that can be added to your classroom or school website. Don’t forget to also apply for the PBS 2011 Innovation Awards while you are on the site!
Free Lesson Plans from the Library of Congress
Made especially for history teachers, the Library of Congress Teachers Page is focused on using primary sources to teach on topics from Abraham Lincoln to the Gold Rush to Photojournalism. The site features easy to print primary source sets that include maps, photographs, letters and speeches. There are even sound clips to create a multimedia learning experience for your students.
In addition to the primary source material provided by the Library of Congress, teachers from across the country have submitted free classroom lesson plans. These themed resource guides include everything you need for your class and are labeled with the appropriate grade level. Finally, as with PBS Teachers, the Library of Congress has professional development options for teacher looking to improve and expand their knowledge base.
Science Teacher Resources from the U.S. Geological Survey
Located within the Department of the Interior, the U.S. Geological Survey is all about science. Its teacher's page breaks down its educational resources into primary, secondary and undergraduate sections. You can find materials related to ecosystems, biology, geography and, of course, geology. Teaching ideas include complete learning modules, price lists for supplies and supplemental resources.
Also on the U.S. Geological Survey page are educational videos and animations as well as an extensive gallery of copyright-free images. Search the map databases or use the science career portal to inspire your students to learn more about Earth and its features.
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Maryalene LaPonsie is an accomplished writer who has extensive experience reporting on education, career advancement and workforce development topics. She specializes in sales and marketing consultation as well as general copywriting services.
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