The Punnett Square is a foundational genetic principle. It helps scientist predict which traits an offspring can have. In today's post, I wanted to provide you with the tools to introduce this concept to your students. DNA, Genes, and the Punnett Square Coded within the DNA of an organism are thousands of genes. Each of these genes contain the code for certain characteristics. Genes are … [Read more...]
T-Shirt Chromatography
One of the few experiments I remember doing in high school was t-shirt chromatography. I can still picture the coffee cans and sharpies all lined up and ready to go in my mind. We spend the whole class period making the shirts and I wore mine until it faded and basically fell apart. So today, I’m going to do you a favor. I’m going to share just how to do this activity with your … [Read more...]
3 Christmas Science Activities
Christmas is almost upon us! The scent of pine mingled with peppermint is wafting through the air in homes around the country. The trees are trimmed, the icicle lights adorn the porch, and the gifts are wrapped – well maybe not quite yet. . . I don’t know about you and your kids, but at our house we love Christmas morning. We have a big breakfast full of once-a-year treats. We open … [Read more...]
All About Lichens at the Homeschool Science Corner
Lichens are perfect to study around this time of year. As the trees are shedding their leaves and the plants are starting to die off, the lichens in the area begin to stand out. Lichens can be found all over the world, including the in the desert! Typically, you will find them on the bark of a tree or on a rock. Many lichens are about the size of a human fist, but they can grow to be as large … [Read more...]
Types of Pollination
The Joshua tree has a unique insect-pollinator, the yucca moth. The bumble bee pollinates the morning glory in the cool beginnings of a new day. And a gentle breeze is responsible for spreading the pollen of the spruce tree. The moth, bee, and wind all act as pollinators for these plants. They are responsible for getting the pollen from the male part of the flower to the female part, so … [Read more...]
Theory vs. Fact at the Homeschool Science Corner
I love science. I love watching a reaction unfold. I love the feel of holding an Erlenmeyer flask in my hand. I love using pipettes - especially the ones you can dial in to a specific measurement which is so much more fun than a teaspoon measurement. I also secretly enjoy putting on safety glasses. There's just something about them that makes you really feel like a scientist. Now … [Read more...]