OK Google, meet Ms. Charlotte Mason's ideas on learning science through nature. Then, let's modernize them for today's world. And now we have . . . {cue drumroll} . . . digital nature study. Seriously, we live in an age where information is available at the touch of a button. We literally carry mini-computers in our pockets! Our fingertips can find out in seconds what used to take … [Read more...]
Is nature study enough for homeschool science? Your {not so} definitive answer
I am often asked - is nature study enough for our homeschool science plans or do we need to add more hands-on science? And I typically answer: Yes, nature study is enough. And, no, nature study is not enough. To which I get a confused look as a response! So I'll ask a few follow-up questions: What are your goals for science? How old are your students? These two questions will … [Read more...]
Impromptu Nature Study
In our neck of the woods, the weather is finally turning more spring-like, so we have been spending quite a bit more time outdoors. This has provided us with several opportunities for impromptu nature study. This type of nature study is all about taking advantage of the opportunities to study science outdoors as they present themselves. What does Impromptu Nature Study Look Like? The other … [Read more...]
What Is Nature Study?
Nature study is a style of educating that searches for the principles of science in nature. It became a popular educational movement in the early 20th century and it is currently regaining popularity once again among homeschoolers. Anna Botsford Comstock, one of the pioneers of the movement, shares the following about nature study in her book: “Nature study cultivates the child’s … [Read more...]
5 Ways you never thought you could use to study science
When you say the word science, half the population involuntarily shudders at the memory of cracking open their high school chemistry textbooks! People often assume that to teach science effectively, we must have a boring, dry textbook, which is just not true. I have already shared the three keys for teaching science, but today I wanted to share with you all 5 ways you may have never … [Read more...]
The Great Lego Balloon Car Race
Every summer we like to add a bit of science every week. We take some extra time on a walk to observe nature. We check out at least one science-related book each week from the library. And take to test out different ideas and projects that caught our eyes throughout the year, but we didn't have time to do. So far, we have found a chrysalis and a black racer snake. We have read tons of Let's … [Read more...]