Observation of a Candle part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This is a lab experiment where students make detailed observations of a candle use them to infer the products of combustion of a candle.

Using Properties to Identify Ionic and Molecular Compounds part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
An inquiry activity for students to test physical properties of several compounds to analyze data and determine if the compound is ionic or covalent. This is ideal for an introduction to ionic and molecular compound nomenclature.

Mass Spectrometry: Using a Game Format to Develop Logic Skills While Applying Fundamental Chemistry Knowledge to Determine Possible Chemical Formula Represented in Graphic Output From A Mass Spetrometer part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This activity is a series of game-like lessons that assist the student in developing the logic skills needed to read mass spectrometer output and formulate the identity of an unknown molecule. As students endeavor to identify the unknown they must apply fundamental chemistry knowledge including formula mass, isotopes, periodic table, relative abundance, interpreting graphs, organic chemistry, ionization, bonding rules, and structural formulas.

Acceleration and Velocity Through Walking Using Paces and Excel part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
Using students' step length to understand the relationship between distance, speed and acceleration. Includes graphing of data and interpretation of graphs.

Using Plant Surveys to Study Biodiversity part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This activity is a field investigation in which students conduct a plant survey of two study plots, analyze their findings through graphing and mathematic models, investigate the impact of human activity in the general area (optional) and generate questions for further investigation of the study plots.

Mini-Lab: Investigating Gas Laws part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This activity is a mini-lab where students determine relationships between gas laws and temperature, pressure, and volume; particularly Charles and Boyle's Law.

The Opposable Thumb As A Human Adaptation : Thumb-Taping Lab part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
In this biology activity, students will first brainstorm how humans use their hands. They will then conduct a short experiment to determine the importance of the opposable thumb to humans and how it is an important adaptation.

Determination of Chlorophyll in Olive Oil Using the Vernier Spectrometer part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
In this activity, students will investigate how much chlorophyll is in olive oil using a Varnier Spectrometer. Students will measure and analyze the visible light absorbance spectra of three standard olive oils obtained from any supermarket: extra virgin, regular, and light.

Analyzing the motion of a marble down a ramp part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This lab activity has students rolling a marble down a ramp to study position, velocity, and acceleration.

Investigation of semiconductors part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This investigation involves a web quest and simulation to help students learn about the make-up and functioning of semiconductors as well as some applications. They will learn about p and n type materials, the pn junction, and what happens when an outside EMF source is added.