How to Handle Lab Days Without Losing Your Mind

Lab days are often the moments we imagine when we think about teaching science—hands-on learning, curiosity, and discovery. In reality, they can also feel overwhelming. Materials end up everywhere, questions come nonstop, some groups rush ahead while others stall, and you’re trying to manage safety, learning, and behavior all at once. It’s a lot. The good news is that lab days don’t need to feel chaotic to be effective. With a few intentional shifts, they

Why Cornell Notes Still Work in Middle School Science

Cornell notes have been around for decades, yet they often get labeled as outdated, boring, or too rigid for today’s classrooms—especially in middle school science. But despite new tools, flashy strategies, and digital alternatives, Cornell notes continue to work. Not because they’re trendy—but because they support how middle school students actually learn science. When used intentionally, Cornell notes don’t limit thinking. They organize it. Structure Is Exactly What Middle Schoolers Need Middle school students are

Christina

Middle School Science Teacher

Hi! I’m Christina, a middle school science teacher with 12+ years of classroom experience and a master’s in special education. I create practical science resources that save time and boost engagement.