Thermal Equilibrium Station Lab - New TEKS 7.8B

This student-led, modular station lab helps middle school students meet the 2021 TEKS 7.8B standard by exploring how thermal energy moves in predictable patterns—from warmer to cooler objects—until all substances within a system reach thermal equilibrium. Through multimodal input and output stations, students investigate key concepts with hands-on, digital, and written activities that encourage independence while keeping them engaged. Teachers act as facilitators, making this a low-prep but high-impact resource.

Structure & Differentiation

• Nine total stations: eight differentiated core activities plus one challenge station for enrichment or early finishers

• Differentiated to meet diverse needs—scaffolded options for remediation and extension tasks for advanced learners

• Includes station signage, readings, task cards, and resources for independent or small-group work

• The Explore It! station may require a few basic materials already available in most science classrooms

Station Breakdown

Input Stations (building knowledge):

• Explore It! – Hands-on demonstration; digital version includes interactive elements in PowerPoint or Google Slides

• Watch It! – Short video with comprehension prompts

• Read It! – Differentiated passages (English & Spanish) with vocabulary and comprehension questions

• Research It! – Facts, images, and graphs paired with structured student questions

Output Stations (demonstrating knowledge):

• Organize It! – Sorting/categorization activities using manipulatives or digital tools

• Illustrate It! – Sketching/drawing models of thermal equilibrium to reinforce understanding

• Write It! – Short-answer prompts requiring complete sentences

• Assess It! – Task cards and vocabulary-in-context activities to measure mastery

Bonus Station:

• Challenge It! – Crosswords, puzzles, games, and mini-projects for enrichment or early finishers

Flexible Implementation

This lab is fully adaptable for in-person and virtual classrooms. Files are compatible with PowerPoint and Google Slides, making them simple to integrate into blended or online learning environments.

This is a finished product; it will be updated with corrections as needed. Future improvements and new features will be sold as a separate product.