middle school
Museum Kids: Just for Fun
From the Metropolitan Museum onf Art, here are eighteen interactive web games that teach about art, art theory and artists. Many cultures and time periods are represented. There are games for all ages, but if a game doesn't seem geared toward younger children, I'd recommend screening it first (for example, the one on Van Gogh's life includes mention of his mental trouble and suicide).
Spark Labs: How to make bio-plastic
From the Smithsonian Institution, here are instructions to make bio-degradable plastic with safe ingredients you're likely to have around the house. The pdf includes a brief history of plastic, and links to learn more.
CK-12: Free, quality math and science curriculum
This site features textbooks in a flexible format called "Flexbooks" available for free download and printing. Most programs include a Teacher's Edition, workbooks, and other supplementary material, all for free. The topics at the moment include middle school and high school level math and science. The science is mainstream (evolution is included in Life Science and Biology programs). The Chemistry course includes labs. The math is fairly traditional and includes Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Probability & Statistics (AP), and Calculus (AB). Free S
The Science Spot: Nature Center Lessons
Headed to the Nature Center? This site has lessons, worksheets, and other ideas to help you get the most out of your trip. Most of the lessons are middle school/upper elementary level.
Math Live, online animated math tutorials from LearnAlberta.CA
This free site features 23 different interactive tutorials on a range of math concepts. The focus is on understanding concepts, not drill. The tutorials are "taught" by friendly animated characters-- it's not as fun as Cyberchase, but it's not too dry either.
The topics covered are: decimals, fractions, basic geometry, plotting points on an XY coordinate system, and probability. If there's a topic that your child isn't getting or is resistant to being taught, this could be a helpful site.
Scholastic Lesson Plans: a searchable, free collection of plans and projects
Looking for ideas to support a new interest, or a whole unit study? There's lots to choose from here! There are hands-on science projects, multimedia-supported lessons, book club ideas... Most are designed for classroom use, but all the lessons I've looked at are very well-suited to homeschooling.
There is the most available for elementary students, but pre-k through 12th grade are represented. Interesting to just browse if you're feeling uninspired.
Illuminations: Resources for teaching math (interesting! free! K-12)
Illuminations is a website maintianed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. The website has interactive math games that allow kids to explore math concepts or review math facts, without being tedious drills. A few favorites in our house:
Robinsunne Multiplication Clock- a gorgeous alternative to drilling math facts
This is a BEAUTIFUL project idea to help kids visualize patterns in the multiplication table, and to let them review their multiplication facts without necessarily realizing that theiy're reviewing their math facts. A great alternative to the standard multiplication table for the artistic/ aesthetically driven child. Probably best for kids in upper elementary or older, because the project call for good fine motor skills.
If you have a big piece of paper in the house and colored pencils, you probably have everything you need.
Free, Creative Math Lesson Plans from the Math Project Journal
Includes lessons for Pre-algebra, Algebra, and Geometry. Some relate to popular culture, others mythology, all involve a hands-on component. Could be a way to add some fun or at least novelty to a topic review.
