Investigating Photosynthesis: Discovering what plants need for photosynthesis part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
In this inquiry lab, students design and conduct simple experiments using elodea and Bromothymol blue to determine whether plants consume or release carbon dioxide in the process of photosynthesis. Students will record their data which will be used to conclude whether carbon dioxide was consumed or released by the elodea.

Exploring Freezing Point Depression using Freeze Pops part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This activity is a laboratory activity where students gather data relating quantities of salt to the freezing point of water/ice.

Investigating Matter: Identifying Properties and States of Matter part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This activity is a classroom lab in which students investigate and observe three types of balloons to help identify the states of matter and their properties.

Will the cup of water overflow when the ice melts? part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This activity is an in-class experiment where students predict, observe, and summarize what will happen when ice melts in a cup of water.

Motion - Investigating Motion Graphs part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
In this activity students analyze the motion of a student walking across the room and predict, sketch, and test distance vs. time graphs and velocity vs. time graphs.

Plant Field Study: Adaptations of Plants for Survival in Different Environments part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This is a field investigation where students observe plants in a school forest setting . Students then compare adaptations of plants from different parts of the forest.

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.