Showing posts with label teaching science. Show all posts
Showing posts with label teaching science. Show all posts

Monday, July 23, 2012

Science Resource for Kids: a Christian Perspective

As a Christian, I find it difficult to find websites and resources that don't mention the phrase "millions of years ago" when referring to animals and plant life. While I try to tune this stuff out when I watch a documentary or read a book, I realize that my children are much more impressionable, and let's just say it, naive, about what is and isn't true.


That's why I'm so happy to endorse the Answers In Genesis website geared towards kid— Kids Answers— which gives information with a Christian worldview. For example, check out this poster pdf on their website:

 

It clearly gives scientific facts, while integrating the goodness of God into the picture. OUTSTANDING!  Check out Kids Answers website for fun printables, video clips (such as the animal of the week), posters, magazines, activities and more!

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Science Project on Hand Washing

Is hand washing really as important as the Centers for Disease Control (and moms) tell us? Consider conducting a fun science experiment (instructions HERE) with information on how germs spread, and why washing your hand thoroughly is so important.


Be sure to click the link to the left for supplies you'll need for the experiment, such as glo-germ and a black light that shows how much "germs" on your hands before and after washing. This experiment makes a great science fair project, and also works as a great teaching activity for science class.

Monday, June 6, 2011

Types of Science Projects

The Everything Kids' Science Experiments Book: Boil Ice, Float Water, Measure Gravity-Challenge the World Around You! (Everything Kids Series)Sure, you know there are differences in science projects, but do you really know the difference? Check out THIS ARTICLE for information on the different types (I'll give you a clue: hands-on, research & record, observation, construction and demonstration). Read the article above for info on how to implement these types of projects into your classroom.

For more information on how to integrate cool science project into your classroom, check out the book pictured to the right Everything Kids' Science Experiments Book or the book with a project for every day of the year- 365 Simple Science Experiments with Everyday Materials.

Friday, May 20, 2011

We Found a Robin's Nest!

A few days ago noticed that a bird had been squawking by our front porch lately, but didn't really think anything of it until I saw the bird quickly fly from the bush but then stayed close by and watch me.

It was then that I noticed the bright blue robin's eggs!  What IS is about robins? Is it their bright red chest or their tiny, bright blue eggs that attract us so much? The kids are SOOOO excited about newborn chicks that have hatched! "They're so adorable!" they my kids all said. (Honestly, I was surprised the windows didn't crack from the high-pitched voices they were using!) They've all taken to calling momma bird "Mrs. Robin" too, which I think is hilarious. I'm not exactly when the chicks hatched, but they're at least 3 days old now, and are still little grey fluff balls.

Observing the mother bird, and the baby chicks is providing a great science activity for the kids. I'm even considering buying THESE cute note-cards to commemorate the event with the kids. Check out the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife for interesting facts on the beautiful birds.

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Investigative Science Activities

Photo from: renjith krishnan
Jazz up that science class with fun activities that show scientific principles in-action! Follow the tips in THIS ARTICLE for science activities on subjects such as surface tension, magnetism, bending light and density.

One of the experiments even involves eggs — and we LOVE eggs around here!

Friday, March 11, 2011

Solar System Science Projects for Middle Schoolers

Melissa & Doug Solar System 48 pcs Floor PuzzleJr. High science class teaches students more about the world around them than they ever knew before. In particular, eight grade teaches students about the wonder that is the solar system. Supplement the traditional class time with fun projects that are sure to get students participating and helping them learn more about the planets and stars. 

Our Solar System Poster (#03) [Toy]Check out THIS article for tips on how to integrate the projects into the classroom, and for fun projects such as a travel brochure,  models of the planets, labeling the constellation, and the life cycle of a star.

For cool models and gear to help you teach science the class, check out HERE, HERE, and HERE.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Creation Science Materials

The Evolution of a Creationist: A Layman's Guide to the Conflict Between the Bible and Evolutionary Theory
book by Jobe Martin
Many years ago I received a copy of the book "Evolution of a Creationist" by Jobe Martin when his family graciously gave me a ride to the airport. I read the book almost cover to cover on the LONG flight and have been a supporter ever since.

Recently while writing a currently unpublished article, I was visiting his website and ran across a free e-version of his book. While I'd certainly appreciate you purchasing a copy of the physical book to help his ministry of spreading the news of creation, the eBook is perfect for people on the go, or for those who enjoy using their latest e-reader gadget.

"Evolution of a Creationist" is a great book for science teachers, parents and homeschoolers and Christians who want ways to defend the position of Creation to unbelievers. Dr. Martin gives Scriptures, scientific facts, and examples of animals such as the gecko and giraffes that just couldn't naturally evolve.

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Upper Elementary Science Project Idea

Since upper elementary students can participate more in science projects than younger students can, allow them to complete hands-on and thinking projects alike. Check out THIS article for ideas on projects that test what types of materials insulate ice best, starting a recycling program, classifying types of animals, and charting food chains. 
Albert Einstein - Personality Poster (Imagination Is More Important Than Knowledge) (Size: 24" x 36")

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Science Projects for Elementary Kids

Kids enjoy science class, because they get to see HOW and WHY things work.

Enhance your science classroom with exciting activities that teach students important science concepts. Check out THIS article for projects on static electricity, bird watching, soil types and acids vs. bases.

Saturday, February 12, 2011

Making Science Models

If you are looking to add a little pizazz to your science classroom, consider fashioning some models to serve as visual aids. Expand thoughts of just decorating with bulletin boards and posters; add a three dimensional element to your classroom.

Check out THIS article for basic steps on how to create almost any sort of visual aid for your science class. And check out Janice VanCleaave's Super Science Models book for great ideas too!

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Science Experiment on Insect Repellents

Science experiments with human subjects and that test actual projects tend to be more fun than just recording results of inanimate objects. If you're as prone to bug-bites as I am, an experiment on which insect repellents work best might just be up your alley.  Check out THIS article for the steps on how to complete an experiment with bugs and repellent. If this project is for an official science fair, be sure to follow the scientific method steps, found HERE. For more ideas on science project click HERE .

Friday, October 1, 2010

Safety in the Science Classroom

Safety in the science classroom is a MUST! Especially when dealing with hazardous chemicals and materials. Keep safety in the forefront with THIS article reinforcing to students the importance of aprons, goggles, and gloves.

For more information on science safety visit the Connecticut State Department of Education for a Science Safety Checklist.

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.

Friday, September 3, 2010

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.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

At-Home Science Activities

Science in Seconds for Kids: Over 100 Experiments You Can Do in Ten Minutes or LessChemistry projects don't need to be relegated to the classroom- you can be a scientist at home too!

Follow THIS link for an eHow article on chemistry activities such as making invisible ink, comparing acids and bases, and how yeast grows.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Rubber Band Airplane Activities

Balsa Sky Streak Rubber Band Powered Glider GuillowsRubber band airplanes are fun to play with AND learn about.

The trick is integrate math and science principles into the lesson without the kids realize it. Purchase some rubber band airplane kits for your class, and then perform the activities listed on THIS eHow article.