I am, that's who. And, actually, I never cared until I moved out of Florida. Floridians welcome winter. It's a temporary break from the oppressive heat and humidity. It's the one week of the year when your hair does what you always knew it could. And, if you happen to have a coat and a cute scarf, you can finally wear them. But now I live where it's cold. And I'm cold. I'm ready for … [Read more...]
St. Patrick’s Day Science
If you're the type of teacher to plan far ahead (the rest of us are jealous of you btw) check out these fun St. Patrick's Day science activities. They're holiday-inspired investigations, kid-tested and easy to set up. The resource includes five different experiments, so there are a few options to consider when scheduling your lessons. Pick and choose your favorite lessons to do. Do one a … [Read more...]
Valentine Science: Cupid’s Target Practice
This fun investigation is the last of the five in the Valentine Science pack. (You can read more about the other 4 activities in earlier blog posts from this week.) This one plays on the idea of Cupid and the arrows he uses to help people fall in love. Since helping people fall in love is a pretty important job, Cupid should probably do a little target practice, right? The Investigation This … [Read more...]
Valentine Science: Crystal Hearts
Get ready to make crystal hearts! If you've never made crystals using Borax soap, this is a great time to try it out. It's not difficult at all, but it does take 24 hours for the kids to see dramatic results, so don't save this one for a Friday. You only need a handful of supplies and a little bit of patience. Crystal Hearts Investigation The investigation can be found in my Valentine … [Read more...]
What Do You Do with an Idea?
I know it's Wednesday and I missed Book Talk Tuesday, but sometimes you just have to jump when the inspiration strikes. And I've been struck. I have a LOT of books. It's what I collect. See? And this isn't even the half of it. There are dozens tucked away in baskets, bins, and drawers. As a matter of fact, as I type this, I'm reminded of a civics project my daughter is doing in high … [Read more...]
When Scientists Read & Write
Every year, I end up with a class full of students who LOVE science. (I'm guessing you do, too.) Of course, experiments are their favorite... being curious, gathering materials, getting messy, seeing what happens... it's the best. Because science is grounded in what's "real," most of my children also like to read nonfiction. I don't know what your science materials look like, but … [Read more...]