How to Choose Science Lessons: A Seven-Point Checklist for Teachers
By Ahmed, founder
There’s no shortage of science lessons online. Quality varies enormously. Before you spend an evening preparing, run it through these seven checks.
1. Does it start with a question?
A good lesson answers a question students care about, not “today we learn about magnets.” Look for a prompt that makes students predict.
2. Is the science right?
Check the explanation against a reliable source. Look out for common errors: “heavy things fall faster,” “summer is when Earth is closest to the Sun,” “plants eat soil.” A good lesson names these misconceptions and tests them.
3. Does the experiment actually work?
A good lesson says what usually happens, including when the effect is small, and lists quantities. If it promises dramatic results with unspecified amounts, be careful. Do a trial run.
4. Is it safe?
Look for explicit safety notes for heat, chemicals, sharp tools, food allergies and small parts. Check that you’re comfortable with the supervision needed.
5. Are the materials realistic?
Can you find everything, and what will it cost for your class? Prefer lessons that use everyday items, and list quantities and cost.
6. Does it fit your time?
A lesson that needs 90 minutes won’t fit a 45-minute block. Look for timings by step and flexibility to cut or extend.
7. Does it connect to your curriculum?
Check which standards or outcomes it addresses. Good resources list what each unit covers, and don’t claim more than they teach. Make sure the codes are for your region.
Bonus: does it help you?
The best lessons include a teacher guide: background science for non-specialists, common mix-ups to listen for, assessment suggestions and a printable student sheet. Planning time is what teachers have least of.
A quick test
Before using a lesson, can you answer these in two minutes?
- What’s the question?
- What will students do?
- What will they find?
- What’s the big idea?
- What could go wrong?
If you can’t, the lesson may not be clear enough.
How ours are built
Our lessons follow a consistent structure: a mission, a prediction, a hands-on hunt, a reveal and an act step, with materials, timings, safety notes and a student sheet. Try one before you decide: Why do bike tires go soft in winter? is a good example, or browse the library and see how each unit lines up with your curriculum. Sign up for three lessons free.