Active Learning Activities

Put Your Theory on Trial

Scaffolded debate that explores the nuances of a belief that the teacher has introduced.

Running on Water: Activating Prior Knowledge of Static Equilibrium

Students watch, discuss, then analyze the veracity of a video in which hydrophobic shoes allow people to run on water.

Silent Discussion

Conduct a discussion in your class without students ever speaking a word!

Reimagining the Reading Quiz: Peer Instruction in English

Students do a reading quiz in class and revise their answers after developing and sharing a rationale for their choice.

Nature of Science Ice-Breaker

A first class ice-breaker activity introducing the nature of science.

To Pass or Not to Pass: Acting out membrane transport

Aim of the activity is to increase students’ understanding of molecules’ movement through the cell membrane.

Card Sorting Activities for Mechanics

Peerwise Assignment: Human Body

Low Stakes Debate

Categorizing for Review

Connotation Exercise: Interview and Presentation

Gender Socialization throughout the Life Course

Students complete a grid that illustrates different life periods that reinforce gender narratives.

Solving World Issues One Smartphone at a Time

Schools of Thought in Psychology

4 Sociological Perspectives: Working with Theoretical Frameworks

Three-Tiered Writing

The Perry Scheme of Intellectual Development

Homophones Talent Show

Identity Dot Exercise

Forget the Math! Draw pictures to learn the wave theory of light

Holding Your Seat: A Mindfulness Exercise

Ctrl + Alt + Del: PTSD and Neuroplasticity

Teacher for a Day: Defining a Definition

Organic Chemistry Flipped Classroom