A simple machine is a tool that you can use to help you to do work. In other words, simple machines make the task of lifting or moving an object easier. Types of Simple Machines There are seven main types of simple machines. 1. The Lever The lever is a rigid bar that is free to move around at a fixed point. Levers are frequently used to lift things, i.e. using a flat piece of metal to pry … [Read more...]
The Punnett Square
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...]
2 YouTube Channels & a Podcast you can use for homeschool science
We live in a digital world. Smartphones and social media abound. The great thing is that as homeschoolers we can use technology to our advantage. These days we can be mesmerized by the eagle as she tends to her nest in real-time. We can listen to the classics with the touch of a button. And we can answer our kids burning questions with a quick Google Search. I thought that today I … [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...]
You might be a homeschool scientist if . . .
I love science and we homeschool, so I like to consider myself a homeschool scientist. As we step into the new year, I thought that I would share with you twenty ways you can use to determine whether or not you are a homeschool scientist. These may or may not have come from real life experiences, but I will not admit to any specifics. So, here we go! You might be a homeschool scientist … [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...]