Monday, September 27, 2010

Light in Your Eyes

When light gets in your eyes it could be a good thing-- that IS how you see, you know-- or a bad thing-- you're not supposed to look directly in the sun. Check out THIS article on your eyes react to sunlight.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

What's Your Problem?

Science is a big problem.... literally! Scientists are always trying to determine the who, what, when, where, why, and how of things- that's called the Scientific Process.

For more information on what the "problem" is in science check out THIS article which gives a brief description. Or check out the Science Buddies website, which offers great resources for students working on official science fair projects.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Light Bulb Science Project

It's said that Thomas Edison once said- "I have not failed 1,000 times. I have successfully discovered 1,000 ways to NOT make a light bulb."

We may never know the exact number of times it took Edison to perfect the light bulb (some say he tried up to 10,000 times to get it right) but one things is for sure- the light bulb IS an interesting object.

Although traditional incandescent bulbs are going the way of the Dodo bird, you can still hone your inner Edison by attempting a science project on electric light bulbs. Check out THIS article for tips on how to complete your own experiment, whether it is just for fun OR for an official science fair project.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Bending Light

You don't have to be Superman to bend light.... it's as simple as placing a pencil into a cup filled with water. The explanation for WHY it looks the way it does, is a bit more complicated though, but not so complicated that you can't explain it to a group of 3rd grade students.

Check out THIS eHow article for more information on the cool science phenomenon.

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Up in the Clouds- Science Project Info

So you're thinking of conducting a science project on clouds.... it's a great and interesting topic!

Before settling on the exact project, consider a few things by reading THIS article. You'll gain a better understanding of what a cloud science project might entail, and gain a few ideas of how you can go about the project

Saturday, September 4, 2010

School Bus Safety Bulletin Board Ideas

Since so many students travel to and from school using school buses, a bulletin board discussing important safety rules is a perfect addition to the classroom, particularly at the beginning of the school year when some students are encountering school buses for the first time.

Don't let the bulletin boards do all the teaching- use and refer to the posted bulletin boards to help students understand the rules, and even consider bringing in a school bus driver to answer any questions students might have.

Check the out THIS article for several school bus safety bulletin board ideas.

Ideas for Teaching "White Fang"

"White Fang" by Jack London is the classic story of a tamed wolf who takes on the life of an average dog.

Instead of merely assigning the book for reading to your class, or reading it to them yourself, integrate some simple activities that help bring the story to life. For example, bring the five senses into the activities, and show students photos of the actual places named in the book.  Showing students photos of snow, wolves, and the Mackenzie river will help bring the story to life, and help students remember the story long-after they are finished reading the book.

Friday, September 3, 2010

Gym Game Ideas

P.E. Games & Activities Kit for Grades 6-12: Over 250 Games to Put New Variety and Challenge into Your Physical Education ProgramIf the gym class for your elementary schoolers has become dull and lifeless, spice things up with a few new game ideas listed in THIS article written by our very own egghead.

Or check out THIS book for a plethora of PE games and activities sure to get your students up and moving!

Wash Your Hands!

Parents and teachers alike frequently tell kids to "Wash your hands!" Now you can have some ways to help explain the importance of washing hands to help prevent the spread of germs.

Check out THIS article with an activity, a song, a game, and implementing a hygiene chart.

Gifts for the Budding Scientist

Do you have a little scientist in the family?

Do you want to encourage that scientific spirit?

Why not encourage inquisitiveness with some gifts specifically with your very own "Bill Nye" or "Beakman" in mind! 

Check out THIS article for ideas on gifts that encourage the special child in your life to keep on experimenting.