NGSS Cross-Cutting Concepts

SF-M1 Cross-Cutting Concepts resources

Find free, ready-to-teach resources aligned to SF-M1. Designed with teachers and artists, in partnership with STEM researchers.

Standard statement

SF-M1 | Cross-Cutting Concepts

Complex and microscopic structures and systems can be visualized, modeled, and used to describe how their function depends on the shapes, composition, and relationships among its parts, therefore complex natural structures/systems can be analyzed to determine how they function.

Standards-Aligned Resources

Created with purpose: see how resources connect to this standard.

Show
GradeAll
AlignmentAll

Showing 2 of 2 units

Unit

Electric Crystals: Exploring how crystal symmetry can power everyday life

Grades

6, 7, 8

Electric Crystals unit banner

Crystals aren't magic, but they are amazing! In this student-driven, lecture-free lesson, students will do card sorts, build hands-on models, solve engineering design puzzles, and more! The whole experience is connected through a beautifully crafted comic and supporting videos.

Alignment summary( Target)

Lessons: 2, 3, 4

Molecular and geometric models of the unit cells are used to demonstrate the function and structure of the macroscopic crystal. Specifically, molecular models of quartz and table salt demonstrate the effects of (a)symmetry on the electrical properties of the bulk crystal, namely piezoelectricity.

Open unit

Unit

I Like That!: How perception, emotion, and cognition shape our preferences

Grades

6, 7, 8

I Like That! unit banner

Students will conduct experiments and analyze real scientific data as they learn about themselves. They'll learn how our eyes and brains interact to determine what we like and dislike, and apply this knowledge to fish research and the art of character design.

Alignment summary( Target)

Lesson 2

In part 2, students learn how the function of the cells of the eye affect preception.

Open unit

Keep exploring

Get Support

Let us know how we can help.