Assign groups or pairs of students a list of terms, ideas, or objects and have them describe their similarities and differences. Students are required to analyze each item objectively to determine the similarities and differences when compared with the other items from the list. Then, encourage students to present their findings to the class either orally or through the use of a poster or worksheet. When presenting their work, students must think about their thought processes to explain their reasoning for categorizing each item.
Show students part of a video clip and instruct them to use what they know about the subject to predict what they would expect to see happen next. This activity also works with images or a piece of a written story. A challenging example of a prediction activity could be showing a portion of a cartoon, pausing the video and having students explain what they believe will happen next based on the their scientific knowledge. The students will know what probably will happen in the cartoon environment but will have to think critically to use their knowledge of science to describe what should happen.
Assign groups of students a problem that they will need to solve by using their knowledge from class to build a model or diagram using either a given set of materials or materials that they choose for themselves. Model building requires students to follow directions and also transfer their knowledge into a more abstract form. These activities will demonstrate the students' ability to transmit their knowledge to a given situation and quickly will reveal any misconceptions that the students might have about the material.
Place students in groups and assign each group a topic that it will have to argue for or against. Students will have to research their side of the debate and have knowledge of the opposing side to ask questions and argue their point effectively.