DLVL / Virtual Laboratories
Virtual Laboratories
Explore K–12 virtual lab pathways organized by grade level, aligned with Next Generation Science Standards.
Virtual Lab Pathways for K–12
Elementary • Middle School • High School STEM Virtual Labs
1.1 Elementary Explorers Pathway (Grades K–5)
The Elementary Explorers pathway introduces K–5 students to virtual labs that focus on visible, concrete phenomena and playful interaction.
Example Platforms
Teacher Supports
• Teacher notes with learning goals and discussion prompts.
• Adaptation ideas for time blocks and reading levels.
• Hands-on extension suggestions.
1.2 Middle School Investigators Pathway (Grades 6–8)
This pathway deepens conceptual understanding and introduces quantitative analysis through inquiry-driven simulations.
Example Platforms
Teacher Implementation Ideas
• Use simulations before or after hands-on labs.
• Incorporate student data into graphs and discussions.
• Assign collaborative scientific roles.
1.3 High School Scientists Pathway (Grades 9–12)
Advanced virtual labs support rigorous reasoning, data literacy, and preparation for postsecondary STEM study.
Example Platforms
Supporting Transitions Beyond High School
Virtual labs build higher-order thinking, data literacy, and problem-solving skills essential for college and career readiness.
Virtual Labs by Grade by NGSS Standards
A complete, classroom-ready guide matching developmentally appropriate virtual labs to NGSS Performance Expectations. All resources are Chromebook/iPad friendly.
Kindergarten (K) — Quick Reference
| Resource | Cost | Best For | NGSS Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Science Teachers (VST) | Free | Guided visuals; observing/cause-effect; click/drag/select | K-PS2 (push/pull), K-LS1 (needs), K-ESS (weather) & SEPs |
| IMSA NGSS Model Lessons (K–3) | Free | Teacher-led investigations; modeling & talk; simple digital manipulation | K lessons aligned to NGSS 3D learning |
| Life Lab – NGSS in the Garden | Paid (samples free) | Real-world observation + visuals; sequencing; labeling/drawing | K unit sample + K–2 NGSS garden-based alignment |
| Workybooks Kindergarten Science | Freemium | Game-based sorting & matching; drag-and-drop | K NGSS-aligned topic practice |
| TPT Free K Science Simulations | Free (varies) | Targeted reinforcement; interactive matching/dragging | NGSS varies by resource |
Grade 1 and additional grades to be added.
Click the file below to open for (K-6)Virtual-Labs_by-grade_by-NGSS-Standards
Click the file below to open for (7-12)Virtual-Labs_by-grade_by-NGSS-Standards
Alphabetical Index of Virtual Labs & Platforms
This index lists virtual labs, platforms, and curated collections in alphabetical order. A comprehensive directory is being compiled and will be published as the collection grows.