Research > Homework Center > Science

Science

Megasites

Internet History of Science Sourcebook: http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/science/sciencesbook.html

This website explores the history of science throughout time and around the world, including Egypt, Scientific Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, Darwin, and more.
Ology: http://www.amnh.org/ology/

Geology, Anthropology, Zoology...are you an Ologist? Check it out here!
BBC Bitesize: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/ks2bitesize/science/

Living things, Materials and physical properties for kids 7-11 years ol.d
BBC Science Clips: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/scienceclips/index_flash.shtml

Test your science skills for kids age 5-7. How many of these games can you master?
BBC Digger and the Gang: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/digger/

Go on an adventure, and learn some science as you go!Click on the right adventure for your age group.
BBC DynaMo's Lab: http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/dynamo/lab/index.shtml

Science games, activities, and experiments for you to test your skills.

Environmental science megasites

Environmental History Timeline: http://www.radford.edu/~wkovarik/envhist/

Environmental problems and conflicts throughout history presented in an easy-to-read timeline format.
EPA Explorer's Club: http://www.epa.gov/kids/

This website explains how our environment effects plants and animals, the air and water. It also includes advice about garbage and recycling.
Global Environmental Outlook: http://www.unep.org/geo/

The United Nations Global State of the Environment. One of the best places to get a whole-world-view on the state of the environment. Check for the most current edition, click on it, and then select the chapters you want to read.
EarthTrends: The Environmental Information Portal: http://earthtrends.wri.org/

Graphs and maps illustrate some of the major conditions and trends in population, agriculture, biodiversity, forests, water resources, energy, climate, and social and economic development that determine the state of the world's environment. This data gives a broad picture of trends over 20 years.
Save Our Earth and Make a Difference: http://library.thinkquest.org/11353/indexnorm.htm

Why should we be eco-conscious? How can you help the environment?
Earth Floor: Adaption: http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/msese/earthsysflr/natural.html

Discussion and activity about what is the natural environment, and how the environment affects life.
World Timber Network: http://home.comcast.net/~leje//wtn.html

Click on the link to Web pages of Environmental Interest World Wide, to find environmental resources related to Forestry and Forest Products.

Global warming

ARM Program's Education Center: http://education.arm.gov/

This website provides global warming facts for the beginner and expert. Read answers to a question of the week, or ask your own question at "Ask a Scientist." Also, discover what the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Program is doing to understand global climate change.
Climate Change Kids Site: http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/kids/

The US Environmental protection Agency website provides current facts and details about climate change and how it impacts life on earth. How much do you affect the climate? Check out the Climate Change calculator!
National Geographic Global Warming: http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global-warming/

What causes global warming? What are the effects on Earth, and how can we stop it? Lots of photos here, and you can test yourself with global warming quizzes.

Biomes & ecosystems

Biomes & ecosystems megasites
Aquatic Biomes
Terrestrial Biomes

Biomes & ecosystems megasites

Biomes: http://ths.sps.lane.edu/biomes/index1.html

Three ninth grade classes at Thurston High School in Springfield, Oregon, present animals, plants, climate and health issues in each biome.
EPA Student Center: http://www.epa.gov/students/

Explore ecosystems, pollution, conservation, recycling, waste management, water and more at this site.
Geo-Globe: Interactive Geography: http://library.thinkquest.org/10157/

Interactive quizzes about the ocean, the biomes, the earth's crust and its atmosphere and more. A great introduction to basic to more in-depth concepts of geography.
Habitats & Biomes: http://library.thinkquest.org/11922/habitats/habitats.htm

What are habitats and biomes? What percent of the world is made up of each biome? Find out the answers to these questions here. There is also more information about 10 of the biomes.
Introduction to Biomes: http://www.runet.edu/~swoodwar/CLASSES/GEOG235/biomes/intro.html

Maps that illustrate where in the world each biome exists complement easy-to-understand facts.
What's It Like Where You Live?: http://mbgnet.mobot.org/sets/index.htm

From the Missouri Botanical Gardens, this website provides information about all ecosystems and details within each ecosystem page. For example for the Deciduous forest you'll find forest locations, types of trees, types of leaves, leaf identification guide, colors of specific leaves in the fall, forest animals and more. For more brief information about ecosystems, click on the "Just for Kids" link at the bottom of page!

Aquatic Biomes

Aquatic Biomes megasites
Coral Reefs
Freshwater
Lakes
Ponds
Rivers, Tribuaries, Waterways
Streams
Wetlands

Aquatic Biomes megasites

Great Lakes Information Network: http://www.great-lakes.net/

An ecosystem encompasses not only water, land, air and wildlife, but also the people who live there. Discover the importance of balance in an ecosystem as well as information about great lakes communities.
Freshwater Ecosystems: http://www.mbgnet.net/fresh/index.htm

Research freshwater environments like rivers, streams, ponds, lakes and wetlands here.
Marine Ecosystems: http://www.mbgnet.net/salt/index.htm

Research marine environments like temperate oceans, tropical oceans and shoreline life here.
The Estuaries Biome: http://www.mefeedia.com/video/23291826

What happens in biomes where salt and fresh water meet? Watch this video and find out.
The Intertidal Biome: http://www.mefeedia.com/video/241307326

Intertidal organisms mix it up...they get tossed and turned every day! Watch this video about how they survive in this tough environment.

Coral Reefs

The Coral Reef Biome: http://www.mefeedia.com/video/24004130

Coral reefs, like cities, are homes for many creatures. Watch this video about how a coral reef functions.
CoRIS noaa's coral reef information system: http://coris.noaa.gov/about/what_are/

Learn more about coral, how reefs are formed and how they function like an underwater forest.
ReefNews: http://www.reefnews.com/

This website for students and teachers also has photos.

Freshwater

Freshwater Ecosystems: http://www.mbgnet.net/fresh/index.htm

Why are rivers, streams and wetlands so full of life? Find out here.
A Primer on Fresh Water: http://www.ec.gc.ca/water/en/info/pubs/primer/e_contnt.htm

This Canadian government website presents background information about water, where we find it, how we use it, share it and manage it.
Water Resources of the United States: http://water.usgs.gov/

From the USGS site, find water data, including groundwater and aquafers.

Lakes

The Lakes of Canada: http://www.aquatic.uoguelph.ca/lakes/lakemap.htm

Explore this clickable map of Canada and learn basic facts about each of its lakes.
Waterlife: http://waterlife.nfb.ca/

Winner of the SXSW 2010 best websites for environmental activism, this site is brimming with information about the Great Lakes, fresh water and water pollution.
The LakeBiome: http://www.mefeedia.com/video/22787183

How many layers are in a lake? How often does the water in a lake turn over? Watch this fun video and find out!

Rivers, tributaries, waterways

Rivers, tributaries, waterways megasites
Columbia River
Willamette River

Rivers, tributaries, waterways megasites

American Rivers: http://www.amrivers.org/

Find out about rivers in your area by clicking on "Your Region." Also includes campaign information about the Salmon River, dams, and links to news and river coalitions for each state.
Importance of Rivers: http://www.aquatic.uoguelph.ca/rivers/chintro.htm

Why are rivers important? Find out here.
International Rivers Network: http://www.irn.org/

An organization for the protection of rivers worldwide. The website includes information on rivers in peril.
Water Resources of Oregon: http://or.usgs.gov/

From the USGS site, check out the hydraulic data collection for specific Oregon current streamflow conditions. Links to Washington, Idado and Montana sites.

Columbia River

Lower Columbia River Estuary: http://www.lcrep.org/

Discover this unique environment where this river meets the Pacific Ocean.
Center for Columbia River History: http://www.ccrh.org/content.htm

Explore the Community Histories section to find out how the river has helped sustain people and communities. Read transcripts of oral histories involving the river, and discover the general history of it and what its uses have been over time.
Changing Columbia Basin: http://www.orst.edu/instruct/anth481/sal/crintro1.htm

Explore the history of the river basin in 1770, in the 1940s and now.
The Columbia River: http://www.bpa.gov/Power/pl/columbia/page4.htm

Introduction, geology, and photo gallery of the Columbia. Windows Media Player plugin required. (download link provided).
Dams: Impact of Dams: http://science.jrank.org/pages/1942/Dams-Impact-dams.html

This website provides information about how large dams like the Bonneville Dam can be harmful.
The Historic Columbia River Gorge: http://www.cr.nps.gov/hps/hli/currents/columbia/index.htm

This website from the National Park Service provides a historic overview of the area, preservation activities, and more.

Willamette River

American Heritage Rivers: Willamette River: http://www.epa.gov/rivers/98rivers/willamette.html

This website has a fact sheet on the Willamette and state of the river reports.
Students for a Clean Willamette: http://www.ospirgstudents.org/orcampus.asp?id2=3753

OSPIRG's (Oregon Student Public Interest Research Group) plan to curb pollution in the Willamette contains statistics about the types of pollutants and their effects on humans and animals.
Restoring the Willamette River: A Citizens' Plan: http://www.coastrange.org/willamette_river.htm

The Coast Range Association provides ten suggestions for restoring the Willamette, including concrete examples.
River of Risk: http://www.oregonlive.com/special/river/

From The Oregonian newspaper, this website contains numerous articles that the paper has published about the health of the Willamette. Topics include fish, wildlife (such as the great blue heron), and sources of pollutants.
Willamette Riverkeeper: http://www.willamette-riverkeeper.org/

This organization was founded to protect and advocate for the Willamette Valley watershed. Learn more about the watershed, programs to protect it, and what you can do at this site. There is even a form where you can report pollution.

Ponds

The Topic Pond Life: http://42explore.com/pond.htm

This site features many links to pond related websites. You can visit a pond, ask a pond expert a question, and even find plans to build a pond.

Streams

Stream Biology and Ecology: http://chamisa.freeshell.org/

What is a stream? Discover animals that live there, what the food supply is, its ecology and more.

Wetlands

The Everglades Nature and Science: http://www.nps.gov/ever/naturescience/index.htm

Learn about what the Everglades are, the habitats it houses, endangered species that live there, and more.
Discovering the Wetlands Biome in Style!: http://www.mefeedia.com/video/22566795

Become a swamp thing and discover the kinds of plants that make up a wetland, by watching this video. Also discover why wetlands are so important.
What Are Wetlands?: http://www.aquatic.uoguelph.ca/wetlands/chintro.htm

Discover the value of and threats upon wetlands at this Canadian government site.

Terrestrial Biomes

Terrestrial Biomes megasites
Deserts
Forests
Prairies
Rainforests

Terrestrial Biomes megasites

Biomes of the World: http://mbgnet.mobot.org/sets/index.htm

Discover land ecosystems at this site.
Biomes of North America: http://www.uen.org/utahlink/tours/tourFames.cgi?tour_id=14051

For older students, this website has a clickable map which leads you to information on each ecological region with photos, descriptions and case studies.
Ecosystems: http://library.thinkquest.org/11353/ecosystems.htm

What is a biome? What is an ecosystem? These and other questions answered at this site.
Tour of Biomes: http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/msese/earthsysflr/biomes.html

Tropical rain forest, Tropical Savannah, Mid-Latitude Deciduous forest, Desert, Subarctic Taiga and Polar Tundra.
Earth's Major Life Zones Terrestrial Biomes: http://videos.howstuffworks.com/hsw/17800-earths-major-life-zones-terrestrial-biomes-video.htm

This video gives you a visual tour of Earth's land biomes.
The World's Biomes: http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/glossary/gloss5/biome/

A great introduction to the world's major biomes.

Deserts

The Desert Environment: http://www.desertusa.com/desert.html

Find out what a desert is and then explore some specific deserts around the world.
Desert Explorer: http://library.thinkquest.org/28855/main.html

What is a desert? Where are deserts located? What kinds of plants and animals live in the desert? Find the answers to these questions and more at this site.
Desert Life: http://www.desertusa.com/life.html

Information about, and pictures of, the plants, animals, and people of America's deserts.

Forests

Explore the Fantastic Forest: http://magma.nationalgeographic.com/ngexplorer/0201/adventures/

This website from National Geographic explores the diversity of a forest, including information about plants, animals, and online activities.
Forest and Biodiversity Links: http://forests.org/links/

Many links to sites on forest conservation, rainforests, sustainable forestry, restoration ecology and more.
Shades of Green: Earth's Forests: http://library.thinkquest.org/17456/main1.html

Discover forest types and life, animals, why they are important and what threatens forests. This website also includes forests through time.
The Temperate Deciduous Forest: http://www.marietta.edu/~biol/biomes/tempded.html

This site is loaded with photos that show you the animals and plants that make up a forest where in autumn, trees lose their leaves.

Prairies

Prairie Ecosystem: http://www.conservenature.org/prairie/ecosystems.htm

Information about how America's prairies were formed, the three main types of prairies, and the plants and animals that live there.
On the Prairie: http://www.bellmuseum.org/distancelearning/prairie/

Build a virtual prairie yourself, follow a field guide through a prairie, and more at this website from the University of Minnesota.
Prairie Ecosystem: http://www.mb.ec.gc.ca/nature/ecosystems/da00s01.en.html

Information about prairies from Environment Canada.

Rainforests

Amazon Interactive: http://www.eduweb.com/amazon.html

Find out more about the Amazon rainforest and the people and animals who live there.
Exploring the Environment: Temperate Rainforest: http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/temprain/trdiversity.html

Explore the Pacific Northwest rainforest including ecosystem diversity and flexibility, natural and human disturbance, logging, tree farming, precipitation and water supply. There's also background about specific researchers temperate rainforests researchers.
Ecogeeks #6 Rainforests: http://www.mefeedia.com/video/13409925

Go on a video rainforest trek. Explore the layers of the forest with monkeys, sloths, ants...and snakes.
Olympic National Park: http://www.nps.gov/olym/

From the National Park Service, this website explains features of the Olympic Rain Forest, including plants, animals, and history.
From Rainforest to Grassland: Plants and Their Communities Across Washington State: http://www.wsu.edu/~wsherb/edpages/raingrass/raingrass.html

Produced by staff from the Marion Owney Herbarium. Includes sections on coastal forest and temperate rainforest.
Rainforest Action Network: Rainforest Heroes: http://www.ran.org/new/kidscorner/home/

For younger students, facts about rainforests, games and information about old growth forests.
Rainforest Alliance: For Kids & Teachers: http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/programs/education/

Check here for information about rainforests and climate change. This site also includes rainforest facts and activies in their section for kids.
The Rain Forests of Home: Characteristics of the Coastal Temperate Rain Forest: http://www.inforain.org/rainforestatlas/

An excerpt from a book published by Ecotrust about rain forests. Also includes maps of the original and current distribution of coastal temperate rain forests.
Zoom School: Rainforests: http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/rainforest/

All about rainforests, from Enchanted Learning's Zoom School.

Ecology

Ecology megasites
Biomes & ecosystems
Canals
Dams
Floods, glaciers, tsunamis
Parks & Natural Wonders
Rivers, tributaries, waterways
Pollution
Recycling
Sustainable development
Waste management
Water

Ecology megasites

Ecology Global Network: http://ecology.com/index.php

Listen to Ecology radio, watch Ecology TV. For younger kids, click on the Kids tab to find information about air, water, and climate change...this site is packed with good stuff.
Kids do Ecology: http://kids.nceas.ucsb.edu/

Learn about ecology, biomes and how the scientific method can help your research. Includes a good list of web links, including links to endangered speices.
EPA Explorers Page: http://www.epa.gov/kids/

Learn about air, water, plants and animals, garbage and recycling, and more about your environment. Go to the art room, the science room or the game room.
Garbage: http://www.learner.org/exhibits/garbage/intro.html

Learn about the different types of garbage we produce and how we can reduce it in our community.
Keep America Beautiful: http://www.kab.org

Check out the "Just for Kids" section to find out how you can help keep America clean.
The Lorax's Save the Trees Game: http://www.seussville.com/games/lorax/

Great for younger youth, this interactive game requires Shockwave plug-in.

Canals

Erie Canal: http://www.eriecanal.org/

Introduction and brief history with map. Includes images of the canal.
History of the Erie Canal: http://www.history.rochester.edu/canal/

"The Erie Canal had an enormous impact on New York and America in the nineteenth century.
New York Canals: http://www.nyscanals.gov/

"Learn the history of the canal system in New York, tugboats and information about the canals today.
Panama Canal History Museum: http://www.pancanal.com/eng/history/

Stories photos and documents about the planning and building of the canal.
Canalmuseum.com: http://www.canalmuseum.com/

Historic photos, documents and stories of the digging of the Panama Canal.

Dams

American Rivers: Dam Removal: http://www.americanrivers.org/our-work/restoring-rivers/dams/

Facts about dams,10 ways they hurt rivers, and FAQs about dam removal.
Geoguide: Dams!: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/resources/ngo/education/geoguide/dams/

From the National Geographic online, this website explains why and how people build dams, as well as providing the good impacts of dams.
Large Dams in the Western United States: http://www2.kenyon.edu/projects/dams/

This website talks about what is good, bad and what's next when it comes to dams. Includes information on the Bonneville and Glen Canyon dams.
Reclamation's Dams: http://www.usbr.gov/projects/

A list of the states with reclamation dams from the Midwest to the West. Click on a state for a list of the dams in that state. Some dams have links to more detailed dam information.
United States Society on Dams: http://www.ussdams.org/

What is a dam? How does it work? Why are they important? This website also presents benefits of dams to society.
Bonneville Dam: https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/op/b/home.asp

From the US Army Corps of Engineers site. Images of the dam, including a facility chart and image of the juvenile fish bypass system.
Grand Coulee Dam: http://users.owt.com/chubbard/gcdam/

History of the Columbia Basin Project, photo gallery, hydroelectric power generation, and more.
Hoover Dam: http://www.usbr.gov/lc/hooverdam/

Learn about the story of the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River, how it works, and visit the virtual visitor center. Includes a Hoover Dam Exhibit Gallery and Picture Gallery. Click on the Teacher/Student Learning Packet for some historical information and lesson plan ideas.

Pollution

EPA Student Center: http://www.epa.gov/students/

Explore ecosystems, pollution, conservation, recycling, waste management, water and more at this site.
Nonpoint Source Pollution: Information for Students/Educators: http://www.epa.gov/owow/nps/whatis.html

This website from the EPA explains pollution that occurs naturally from rain and snowmelt, what it means to the environment and what we can do about it.
Types of Pollution: http://greenliving.lovetoknow.com/Types_of_Pollution

We've heard of water, air, and soil pollution, but what are noise, light and personal pollution? Find out here.
Pollution in People: http://pollutioninpeople.org/

This site looked at 10 different people from Washington State, to see what toxic chemicals they had in their body. Check out what they found, where these things come from, and how we can prevent them getting in our systems.
Skin Deep - Cosmetic Safety Database: http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/

Does your shampoo cause cancer? Does your lipstick have lead in it? Look up the products you use on this website to see if they're making you beautiful, or toxic.
Beachcombers' Alert!: http://beachcombersalert.org/

Scientist Curt Ebbesmeyer tracks trash in the ocean to help science learn about ocean currents (see the book Tracking Trash). He maintains this website to keep people aware of what he's tracking. You can also report beach finds here.
Ocean Conservancy: http://www.oceanconservancy.org

Both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans have huge garbage patches filled with plastic. Interested in tracking trash? Join a worldwide survey and cleanup of beach debris here.
Algalita Marine Research Foundation: http://www.algalita.org/

Captain Charles Moore's research covers marine conservation, facts about and maps of plastic pollution in the oceans.

Recycling

Sustainable development

EcoFuture: http://www.ecofuture.org/

This website is dedicated to sustainability and the ecological future of our planet.
Facing the Future: People and the Planet: http://www.facingthefuture.org/

A guide to population issues, impacts and solutions for young people. Follow the slideshow or choose a topic to explore further.
Green Map System: http://www.greenmap.com/

Learn how to create your own local community green map here.
The Story of Stuff: http://www.storyofstuff.com/

Watch this video to see the full cycle of what happens to all our stuff and how that affects our life and our planet.
The Population Action International: http://www.populationaction.org/

Discover key demographics and trends, take a population quiz, and learn about why rapid population growth is cause for concern.
Human Dimensions of Global Environmental Change: http://sedac.ciesin.columbia.edu/tg/guide_main.jsp

Discover background materials on key global change issues such as agriculture, human health, land use, ozone depletion, and more.
Topics in Development: http://www.worldbank.org/html/extdr/thematic.htm

Find information about world issues, such as climate change, food crisis, energy, and pandemic flu.
YouThink!: http://youthink.worldbank.org/

Learn facts about world issues, share stories, and discover actions to take to solve these problems.

Waste management

Waste management megasites
Composting
Recycling

Waste management megasites

The History of Waste; Do you Want to be a Garbolologist?: http://environmentalchemistry.com/yogi/environmental/wastehistory.html

"Includes a timeline of the history of how we treat waste. "
EPA Wastes-Non-Hazardous Waste - Municipal Solid Waste: http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/nonhaz/municipal/

Facts and figures about waste and landfills, waste combustors and transfer stations in the U.S.

Composting

Fireworks

Kaboom!: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/kaboom/

NOVA Online explains how fireworks explode and how fireworks have different colors.

Geology & earth science

Geology & earth science megasites
Caves & Caverns
The Earth's Crust
Earthquakes and Plate Tectonics
Floods, glaciers, tsunamis
Geologic Time
Rocks & Minerals
Volcanoes
Water
Wildfires

Geology & earth science megasites

Alive on Everest!: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/everest/

NOVA Online leads you on a climb and lets you explore with the crew.
Earth Systems: http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/msese/earthsys.html

Middle school earth science. This website explains plate tectonics, biomes, the earth's sphere, geologic time, rock and water cycles, as well as an earth puzzle!
Erosion: http://teacher.scholastic.com/dirtrep/erosion/invest.htm

Learn how erosion happens, then make your own observations of erosion in your neighborhood. You can even read reports from other kids.
Geology.com: http://geology.com/

Read about everything from raptor fossils to rock tumblers - a great place to search for anything geology related! Includes maps, satellite images and info on careers.
Frequently Asked Questions about Paleontology: http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/FAQ/faq.html

Did humans and dinosaurs live at the same time? Where do you look for fossils? Look here for answers to your questions.
Geo-Globe: Interactive Geography: http://library.thinkquest.org/10157/

Interactive quizzes about the ocean, the biomes, the earth's crust and its atmosphere and more! A great place to introduce basic to more in depth concepts of geography.
Geology Image Gallery: http://geology.about.com/library/bl/images/blimageindex.htm?once=true&

From About.com, this website has images of geologic processes and landforms, like alluvial fans, slumps, buttes, hoodoos, and geysers.
Geology of the Grand Canyon: http://www.bobspixels.com/kaibab.org/geology/gc_geol.htm

This website covers the geological layers of the Grand Canyon, and all the elements that helped wear away the rock.
Geomorphology from Space: http://geoinfo.amu.edu.pl/wpk/geos/GEO_HOME_PAGE.html

Learn about landforms such as alluvial fans, mountains, deltas, and moraines at this site. Lots of pictures are included.
PlanetDiary: http://www.phschool.com/science/planetdiary/

Where are current floods, volcanic eruptions, fires, and earthquakes? Find out here!
Savage Earth: http://www.pbs.org/wnet/savageearth/

From PBS Online, this website covers the Earth's crust, earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis. You can also send your questions to an expert.

Caves & Caverns

The Armchair Caver: http://web.ukonline.co.uk/arthur.vause/

Avoid the unpleasantness of actual caving with these armchair guides - clickable maps with photographs of the cave. Three caves are ready for you to explore.
Bridal Cave Kids Page: http://www.bridalcave.com/kidspage/

Follow a great detective story, explore the cave, learn how rocks form, and more.
The Carlsbad Caverns National Park: http://www.nps.gov/cave/index.htm

Learn more about this New Mexico cavern by reading about the wilderness, geology, and photos.
The Ape Cave Gifford Pinchot National Forest: http://www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/recreation/ape-cave/index.shtml

These caves near Mount St Helen, in Washington, have nothing to do with apes - but they do have a meatball rock formation, and other interesting cave features.
The Colossal Cave Mountain Park: http://www.colossalcave.com/welcome.html

Take a virtual tour of the cave or learn about the animals which surround it, and more.
Luray Caverns: http://www.luraycaverns.com

Explore the history and discovery of this North Carolina cavern.
Oregon Caves: http://www.nps.gov/orca/

Explore the history and discovery of the Oregon caves.
The Virtual Cave: http://www.goodearthgraphics.com/virtcave/

Learn about all the unique minerals found in caves. View photographs and explore.
Kids Page Cave Formations: http://www.caverntours.com/KIDSPAGE_Formations.html

Bacon, popcorn, draperies and soda straws...who knew cave formations were so diverse?

The Earth's Layers

What's Inside the Earth Four Layers: http://videos.howstuffworks.com/hsw/12903-whats-inside-the-earth-the-four-layers-video.htm

Take a video tour of the layers beneath Earth's crust.
Earth's Sphere: http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/msese/earthsysflr/spheres.html

What makes up the layers of the earth?
The Ground Beneath: http://library.thinkquest.org/27026/

Learn about the layers of the Earth, plate tectonics, folding, faulting and earthquakes at this website created by students.

Earthquakes and Plate Tectonics

Dynamic Earth: The Story of Plate Tectonics: http://pubs.usgs.gov/publications/text/dynamic.html

Lots of great information and images to explain how plate tectonics works. Includes Pangaea.
Earthquake ABC: http://earthquake.usgs.gov/learning/kids/abc/

For younger youth, this website provides "a child's view of earthquake facts and feelings."
Earthquakes: http://pubs.usgs.gov/gip/earthq1/

From the USGS, this website explains earthquakes in history, how they occur and happen, how to measure earthquakes, predicting them and more.
Earthquakes: http://www.earthquakes.bgs.ac.uk/

All you want to know about earthquakes.
Elastic Rebound Animation: http://projects.crustal.ucsb.edu/understanding/elastic/rebound.html

Watch this earthquake using Java applet animation. Enable Java in your browser's preference menu.
National Earthquake Information Center: http://earthquake.usgs.gov/regional/neic/

Current earthquakes, the largest earthquakes since 1900 and more all with colorful and clear maps.
Plate Tectonics: http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/msese/earthsysflr/plates1.html

What are the different types of faults? Where are they? Look here to find out!
Plate Tectonics; An Introduction: http://www.teachersdomain.org/resource/ess05.sci.ess.earthsys.plateintro/

This video shows how the continents were once one land mass, that separated. What happened when India crashed into Asia? Watch and find out!
Virtual Earthquake: http://www.sciencecourseware.org/eec/Earthquake/

Read the introduction and learn how to read a seismograph. Then choose a location and figure out where the epicenter is located. For older youth.
What is Richter Magnitude?: http://www.seismo.unr.edu/ftp/pub/louie/class/100/magnitude.html

This website clearly describes magnitudes and the earthquakes effects on the area hit at the top of the page and then goes into a more in-depth explanation lower on the page.
Did you Feel it?: http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/dyfi/

The ground is shaking, the windows rattling, it's an earthquake! Hop on this site to report what you felt, and see what others have reported.

Floods/Tsunamis

Flood!: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/flood/

NOVA Online takes you through a flood cycle, how it occurs and the aftermath. High graphics may lead to slow loading. Text version is available from the site.
Floods and Flood Plains: http://water.usgs.gov/pubs/FS/OFR93-641/

This website from the USGS explains how floods happen and how to limit damage.
Floods 101 National Geographic: http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/player/environment/environment-natural-disasters/landslides-and-more/floods.html

Great explanations about what causes floods, plus footage of the Mississippi River and Hurricane Katrina flooding.
All About Glaciers: http://nsidc.org/glaciers/

Explains different types of glaciers, how glaciers form, and more. Click on Education Center for student friendly information.
Tsunami: http://www.geophys.washington.edu/tsunami/intro.html

Everything you want to know about tsunamis.

Geologic Time

National Geographic Prehistoric Time Line: http://science.nationalgeographic.com/science/prehistoric-world/prehistoric-time-line.html

This slide show walks you through geologic time, showing you how life on Earth developed in each era.
Geologic Time: http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/msese/earthsysflr/geotime.html

A description and timeline of geologic time along with definitions of the different geologic eras.
GSA Geologic Time Scale: http://www.geosociety.org/science/timescale/

This geologic time scale, from the Geological Society of America, reflects the 2009 changes. PDF version is also available.
Geologic Time Scale: http://www.zoomwhales.com/subjects/Geologictime.html

Learn about plants, animals, climate, and geology during geological eons, era, periods, and epochs. There's also an animation that shows how the continents have drifted over time.
Quaternary Geologists Win Time Scale Vote: http://www.nature.com/news/2009/090603/full/459624a.html

In 2009, scientists decided to change the dates of the geoloical time periods the Quaternary and the Pleisteocene, making many geologic time scales obsolete. Read about those changes here.
Geologic Time; the Story of the Changing Earth: http://paleobiology.si.edu/geotime/main/

This sophisticated Smithsonian site lets you highlight the time period you want, and then read about the life and land forms that existed on Earth,
Historical Geology: Geologic Time Scale: http://videos.howstuffworks.com/hsw/17896-historical-geology-geologic-time-scale-video.htm

A 21 minute video which walks you through the Earth's life story, explaining what happened in each geological era.
Paleomap Project: http://www.scotese.com/earth.htm

Click on "Earth History" to see a map of the continents during different geological periods. Click on "Climate History" to see how the climate changed over time.

Rocks & Minerals

Fossils, Rocks and Time: http://pubs.usgs.gov/gip/fossils/contents.html

This website explains rock layers and fossils according to age.
The Virtual Fossil Museum: http://www.fossilmuseum.net/index.htm

This website explains fossils, evolution, the tree of life and geologic time.
Welcome to the World of Amber: http://www.emporia.edu/earthsci/amber/amber.htm

Trapped in sap! Insects, spiders, lizards and other creatures incased in hardened sap, what we call amber, are a special kind of fossil. This site explains how amber is recovered, its uses,types of amber and more.
The Mineral Gallery: http://mineral.galleries.com/

Explore rocks and minerals by name, class or grouping or search the site.
The Rock Cycle: http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/msese/earthsysflr/rock.html

How do rocks form? Look here for a printable image and a description.
Smithsonian Gem & Mineral Collection: http://www.gimizu.de/sgmcol/

Pictures and descriptions of highlights of the collection.
What is a Mineral?: http://webmineral.com/Mineral_Definition.shtml

This page describes what makes up a mineral and also explains what makes up a rock.

Volcanoes

How to make a Volcano Model: http://www.volcanolive.com/model.html

Learn how to build your very own volcano.
Cascades Volcano Observatory: http://vulcan.wr.usgs.gov/

Tons of information about volcanoes in the Cascade Range. Check Photo Archives for lots of pictures.
Global Volcanism Program: http://www.volcano.si.edu/

From the Smithsonian Institute, find out about the latest eruptions, visit specific volcanoes and more.
Idaho Volcanoes and Volcanic Areas: http://vulcan.wr.usgs.gov/Volcanoes/Idaho/framework.html

Volcanic history, hazards and seismicity of Idaho mountains.
Mexican Volcanoes: http://www.latinamericanstudies.org/mexico-volcanoes.htm

Check out the two active volcanoes in Mexico.
Mount St. Helens: http://www.fs.fed.us/gpnf/mshnvm/

Information about Mount St. Helens before and after the 1980 eruption.
Mount St. Helens, Washington: http://vulcan.wr.usgs.gov/Volcanoes/MSH/NatMonument/framework.html

View maps, and learn more about the volcano.
Oregon Volcanoes and Volcanic Areas: http://vulcan.wr.usgs.gov/Volcanoes/Oregon/framework.html

Volcanic history, hazards and seismicity of Oregon mountains.
Volcano World: http://volcano.oregonstate.edu/

Find details about volcanoes, their eruptions, and more.
Volcanoes: http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/msese/dinosaurflr/volcanoes.html

Volcanoes, their eruptions and why and how eruptions occur. Images and graphics complement the text.
Volcanoes: Can We Predict Volcanic Eruptions?: http://www.learner.org/exhibits/volcanoes/entry.html

Melting rocks, dynamic earth, forecasting eruptions and more.
Volcanoes Videos The Discovery Channel: http://dsc.discovery.com/videos/volcano-video/

Videos describe better than words volcanic topics like pyroclastic flow, The Ring of Fire, Pompeii and more.
Washington State Volcanoes and Volcanic Areas: http://vulcan.wr.usgs.gov/Volcanoes/Washington/framework.html

Volcanic history, hazards and seismicity of Washington mountains.

Water

The Hydrologic Cycle: http://ww2010.atmos.uiuc.edu/(Gh)/guides/mtr/hyd/home.rxml

Learn about the circulation and conservation of earth's water at this website and how the earth's water is distributed among oceans, land and the atmosphere. Find out about evaporation, condensation, precipitation, ground water, transpiration, runoff, and more.
Properties of Water: http://www.ec.gc.ca/water/en/nature/prop/e%5Fprop.htm

Learn more about what makes up water, all the forms it takes, where to find it and why it is so diverse at this website by Environment Canada.
Surf Your Watershed: http://cfpub.epa.gov/surf/locate/index.cfm

Discover where your closest watershed is by typing in your zip code or by searching an area of the US.
The Water Cycle: http://www.cotf.edu/ete/modules/msese/earthsysflr/water.html

How does the earth recycle water? Check here for a description and printable image.
Water Science for Schools: http://wwwga.usgs.gov/edu/

This website from the US Geological Survey presents information about the earth's water, water basics, waster use, water questions & answers, and a glossary of water terms.

Wildfires

Wildfires: http://www.smokeybear.com/wildfires.asp

Learn about the tools and people that fight wild fires.. The ecological benefits of fires are also covered.
FEMA: Wildfires: http://www.fema.gov/hazard/wildfire/index.shtm

"What can you do before, during and after a wildfire to stay safe?

Magazines

Nature: http://www.nature.com/nature/

This international weekly journal on science features news, advances in science and an online archive of past articles.
Popular Mechanics: http://popularmechanics.com/

A great source for science topics and technology news.
Science News Online: http://www.sciencenews.org/

This weekly online magazine has current scientific discoveries, stories and more. Search the archive holdings of issues from 1996 to the present.
Scientific American: http://www.sciam.com

Read articles, visit explorations and ask an expert online from Scientific American.
Sky & Telescope: http://skyandtelescope.com/

This astronomy magazine provides interesting articles an photographs of the latest discoveries and explorations into space.

Microscopes

Dennis Kunkel's Microscopy: http://www.denniskunkel.com/

The image gallery at this website has hundreds of images of animals and microorganisms viewed through a microscope.
Magnification Module: http://micro.magnet.fsu.edu/primer/virtual/magnifying/

Choose a sample (such as a compact disc, moon rock, or computer microprocessor) and see how it looks at magnifications of 25x, 50x, 100x, 200x, 500x, or 1000x.
Marly Cain's Microscopy for Kids: http://www.rmcain.com/mcama/adv/advidxkids.mv?

This website contains microscope experiments for kids.
MicroScape: http://www.microscopy.com/MicroScape/MicroScape.html

Click on "Enter the MicroScape Virtual Laboratory" to look at microscope images from nature, around the house, or the world of science and technology. (Your computer will need the QuickTime plug-in.) Or click on "What is Microscopy?" to ask a microscopist a question.
Molecular Expressions: Image from the Microscope: http://micro.magnet.fsu.edu/

"...one of the Web's largest collections of color photographs taken through an optical microscope."Also features a history of microscopy.
Scanning Electron Microscope: http://www.mos.org/sln/sem/

How does a scanning electron microscope work? Find out by watching the movie or slide show at this site. There is also a gallery of images from the microscope."

Natural Resources and Energy

Energy megasites
Electricity
Fossil Fuels
Fusion
Magnets
Nuclear Energy
Solar Energy
Wind Energy

Energy megasites

Alternative Fuel Vehicles: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/Feg/current.shtml

What are alternative fuels? Compare different alternative fuel cars.
Comparisons of Various Energy Resources: http://www.nucleartourist.com/basics/why.htm

Learn the advantages and disadvantages to the use of coal, nuclear, hydroelectric, gas, oil, wind and solar energies.
Renewable Energy OREGON.gov: http://www.oregon.gov/ENERGY/RENEW/index.shtml

How are wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and hydropower are being used as energy in Oregon?
How Stuff Works How Batteries Work: http://www.howstuffworks.com/battery.htm

Batteries store energy. But how do they work? It's all explained here.
EIA's Kids Page: http://www.eia.doe.gov/kids/

What is energy? Where does it come from?
Energy Information Administration: http://www.eia.doe.gov/

Energy statistics by energy type or an overview available. Annual statistics from 1949 to the present; monthly statistics for the last 2-3 years for all energy or by individual energy resource; also includes energy analysis and forecasting information.
Energy Information Administration: http://www.eia.doe.gov/

Federal website about energy resource, including gas, natural gas, coal, electricity and nuclear energy; environment, state data, prices, quick stats, and historical data.
Energy Quest: http://www.energyquest.ca.gov/

Energy education from the California Energy Commission.
Environmental Information at a Glance: http://www.eia.doe.gov/environment.html

Explore climate change information, emissions, transportation, legislation, and utility statistics.
Forcasting Information at a Glance: http://www.eia.doe.gov/oiaf/forecasting.html

Learn about the future of various energy resources at this site.
Renewable Fuels Information at a Glance: http://www.eia.doe.gov/fuelrenewable.html

This website presents statistical information about geothermal heat, wind, wood and solar energy and more.
Energy of the Future; 10 Ways to Run the 21st Century: http://www.livescience.com/environment/top10_power_21stcentury.html

What power sources will we use in the 21st Century - nuclear, fuel cells or antimatter?

Electricity

Explain that Stuff Electricity: http://www.explainthatstuff.com/electricity.html

What kinds of electricity are there? How does an electrical circuit work? Includes how electricity is measured and the history of electricity.
Electricity at a Glance: http://www.eia.doe.gov/fuelelectric.html

This website provides state profiles and statistics.
How Electromagnets Work: http://www.howstuffworks.com/electromagnet.htm

Why are electromagnets important? How does it work?
Franklin's Kite: http://www.mos.org/sln/toe/kite.html

How did Franklin's kite attract lightning? Find out here.
Lightning: http://www.mos.org/sln/toe/lightning.html

This website clearly explains how lightning happens and has pictures.
Lightning: The Shocking Story: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/features/96/lightning/

National Geographic explores the science of lightning.
The Magic of Static Electricity: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/features/96/lightning/6a.html

National Geographic presents static electricity and lightning.
What is Static Electricity: http://www.sciencemadesimple.com/static.html

From Science Made Simple, this website explains how static works and used graphics to explain.

Fossil Fuels

Fossil Fuel megasites
Coal
Oil & Petroleum
Natural Gas

Fossil Fuel megasites

Fossil Energy: http://www.fe.doe.gov/

USGS Department of Energy information on coal, oil and gas.
Fossil Fuels Eco-Stat: http://www.ecokids.ca/pub/eco_info/topics/energy/ecostats/index.cfm

For younger kids, use this handheld device to find out about fossil fuels, coal, oil and natural gas.
Learning about Fossil Fuels for younger students: http://www.fe.doe.gov/education/energylessons/index.html

"Learn how coal, oil, and natural gas are formed, mined and used."

Coal

Coal Information at a Glance: http://www.eia.doe.gov/fuelcoal.html

This website includes coal production, production capacity, productivity, distribution, price, consumption, end-use, imports & exports, quality and reserves statistics.
Coal: Our Most Abundant Fuel: http://www.fossil.energy.gov/education/energylessons/coal/gen_coal.html

Discover the history of coal, mining and transportation information, and how coal is mined and how it forms.
Energy Kids Coal: http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/kids/energy.cfm?page=coal_home-basics

How is coal formed? Where is coal mined in the U.S.? What kinds of coal are there, and more.
Coal and Power: http://www.fe.doe.gov/programs/powersystems/

This website from the Department of Energy presents information about coal.

Oil & Petroluem

Oil and Natural Gas: http://www.fe.doe.gov/programs/oilgas/

This website from the Department of Energy presents research and development and regulations on oil and natural gas.
Energy Kids Petroleum: http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/kids/energy.cfm?page=oil_home-basics

How is oil formed? Where are oil rigs in the U.S. How do we refine oil, and more.
Petroleum: http://www.eia.doe.gov/oil_gas/petroleum/info_glance/petroleum.html

The website from the U.S. Energy Information Administration presents petroleum statistics.

Natural Gas

Natural Gas: http://www.eia.doe.gov/oil_gas/natural_gas/info_glance/natural_gas.html

Natural gas statistics for the U.S.
Natural Gas: Fueling the Blue Flame: http://www.fossil.energy.gov/education/energylessons/gas/

Learn how natural gas is produced and its history.
Energy Kids Natural Gas: http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/kids/energy.cfm?page=natural_gas_home-basics

Learn how natural gas is produced and how it's used.

Fusion

FusEdWeb: Fusion Energy Educational Web Site: http://fusedweb.pppl.gov/

"Bringing the power of the stars to Earth..." this site is a fusion and plasma resource, including FAQs and a glossary.
Simplified Fusion and Fission for Kids: http://physics.suite101.com/article.cfm/simplified_nuclear_fission_and_fusion_for_kids

This article explains how these two forms of nuclear power work.

Nuclear Energy

International Nuclear Safety Center: http://www.insc.anl.gov/

From this page you can find out where around the world's nuclear plants are located and specific information on each reactor including initial start up costs, staffing, safety reports and more.
Nuclear Age Peace Foundation: http://www.wagingpeace.org/

"Founded in 1982, the Foundation performs research and analysis on critical issues of peace and global survival, and prepares and distributes educational materials by leading thinkers on these issues. The Foundation is a catalyst in initiating worldwide efforts to abolish nuclear weapons, to create an International Criminal Court, and to use science and technology for constructive purposes." Includes a Nuclear Age Chronology, information on the foundation's efforts to abolish nuclear weapons, an archives with many articles regarding nuclear war, weapons, and energy, and much more.
Nuclear and Uranium Information at a Glance: http://www.eia.doe.gov/fuelnuclear.html

This website provides information on nuclear reactors, uranium and other statistics.
Nuclear Energy Pros and Cons: http://www.gdrc.org/uem/nuclear.html

"The objective of this page is provide a dispassionate and non-aligned collection of information on nuclear energy. No judgments are passed, or opinions expressed. It is up to the user of this information to use it as necessary ..." Collection of links to a variety of sites dedicated to nuclear energy.
Energy Kids Uranium (nuclear): http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/kids/energy.cfm?page=nuclear_home-basics

How does a reactor work? Where do we get uranium? What kind of wastes do reactors produce, and more.
Top 5 Worst Nuclear Disasters: http://news.discovery.com/tech/top-five-nuclear-disasters.html

The top five nuclear accidents, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency's rating system.

Solar Energy

How Solar Cells Work: http://www.howstuffworks.com/solar-cell.htm

This site includes a video that explains how the sun generates power, and how we collect it.
Solar Energy Home Page OREGON.gov: http://www.oregon.gov/ENERGY/RENEW/Solar/index.shtml

Lots of info about bringing solar to your home. Click on the link to Solar Electric to see sun charts for Oregon.
Solar Energy - Energy from the Sun: http://www.eia.doe.gov/kids/energyfacts/sources/renewable/solar.html

Solar energy information from the Energy Information Administration.

Wind Energy

From Windmills to Whirligigs: http://www.sci.mus.mn.us/sln/vollis/index/frontvollis.html

From the Science Museum of Minnesota, fun whirligigs that use wind.
National Wind Technology Center: http://www.nrel.gov/wind/

National Renewable Energy Laboratory's National Wind Technology Center provides information on wind technology.
Wind Energy Information OREGON.gov: http://www.oregon.gov/ENERGY/RENEW/Wind/windhome.shtml

Good source to learn about wind power in Oregon. Also explains how wind power works, and how it's collected.
Wind Turbine Now: http://www.windturbinesnow.com/index.html

How does a wind turbine work? What are the advantages/disadvantages? What is a wind farm? and more.
Wind Turbine- An Illustrated History of its development: http://www.telosnet.com/wind/

Traces the history of wind power from 1000 BC to the present.

Magnets

See also Electricity for electronmagnetics.

Background Information for Magnets: http://www.sciencetech.technomuses.ca/english/schoolzone/Information_Magnetic.cfm

Questions about magnetism answered. Great drawings and short explanations make this website easy to use and to learn about magnets.
Just What is Magnetism?: http://home.interserv.com/~skyblade/wim.htm

Find out the answer to this question at this site. Includes drawings to help explain how magnets work.
Explain that Stuff! Magnetism: http://www.explainthatstuff.com/magnetism.html

Fantastic descriptions of how magnets work, the magnetic field, and the Earth as a giant magnet.
How an Electromagnet Works: http://www.howstuffworks.com/electromagnet.htm

Read a basic explanation about how it works then try an experiment or two listed on the site.
basics of Magnetism: http://www.school-for-champions.com/science/magnetism.htm

This website provides images of attraction and repulsion and explains how magnetism works.

Robots

Amazing Robot Museum - Robots in Entertainment: http://www.the-robotman.com/archival/rm_fs.html

This website shows famous robots that appeared in movies and on television from the 1920s to the 1990s.
The Tech Museum Robotics: http://www.thetech.org/exhibits/online/robotics/

Control a remotely operated vehicle. Discover the history of robots. Investigate the ethics of machine made humans.
MIT Artificial Intelligence Laboratory: http://www.ai.mit.edu/projects/mobile-robots/robots.html

Would you like to see the kinds of robots that scientists and their students are creating? Check out this website from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and meet the robots Yuppy, Wheelesley, and Pebbles.

"Why" facts and How Stuff Works

How Things Fly: http://www.nasm.si.edu/exhibitions/gal109/gal109.html

Answers to how things fly as well as experiments to test these theories.
How stuff works: http://www.howstuffworks.com/

"Learn about how things work in the world around you. What makes the engine in your car work? What gears do? What makes the inside of your refrigerator cold?"
How Things Work: http://howthingswork.virginia.edu/

Ask a question or search the archives for answers to How Things Work!
The Science of Ballooning: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/balloon/science/

NOVA online adventure takes you through the history and science of ballooning.
Science Whatzit: http://www.omsi.org/explore/whatzit/index.cfm

How does a hologram work? Why do we yawn? You can ask questions on this website and have them answered by OMSI, on their podcasts.
Scientific American: http://www.sciam.com/

Online articles and interviews from Scientific American magazine.
The Skinny On...: http://www.discovery.com/area/skinnyon/skinnyon.html

Many mysteries of things and everyday life explained by science.
The Why Files: http://whyfiles.org/

Search the National Science Foundation's Why Files and read recent science news.