Student slideshow: English | Spanish

Teacher printout: English & Spanish

The Scientists of Lizard Island

In this reading, scientists learn about how scientists studied what happened when new brown anoles were introduced to an island inhabited by green anoles.

For a limited time, view archived reading extensions here.

Touchdown!

This cool activity challenges students to build a “lander” from simple materials, such as straws, paper, and mini-marshmallows. The goal is to create a design that will keep astronauts from getting hurt when they land on another planet. Discussion questions, extensions, and a downloadable PDF, available in both English and Spanish, are included. (Grades 3–8, NASA/JPL)

Whether you’re trying to move or work or even just breathe, living in space is filled with challenges.

• In this video, astronaut Mark Vande Hei explains how he stays fit aboard the International Space Station. (2:57, ESA)
• How long would you last unprotected on another world? Not long, as astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson explains. (2:45, Business Insider)

You can elaborate student learning and engagement with Mystery Science mini-lessons.

• How do astronauts get ready for space? In this mini-lesson students learn about all the training astronauts go through to prepare for the very unique environment of space.

If you are in an NGSS state, this mini-lesson supports the DCI LS3.B: Variation of Traits