What is an element? What is an atom? How do an element and atom differ? Today I'm getting a bit technical as I share about these two essential concepts in chemistry. The Element: Elements are a substances made up of one type of atom that cannot be broken down by chemical reaction to form a simpler substance. In other words, they are a type of matter which cannot be broken down into two or … [Read more...]
Science Corner: The Periodic Table
The periodic table visually shows the elements that make up everything we see around us. It is a key concept in chemistry which needs to be taught to our students. I prefer to introduce the idea of the periodic table in the elementary years. Then, teach the relationships and categories of the periodic table during the middle school years. That way, the students go into high school chemistry … [Read more...]
Homeschool Science Corner: The Importance of Units of Measurement
I am a bit of a stickler on units of measurement thanks to my high school chemistry teacher. She always told us that a number in chemistry meant nothing without its units, which is so true. After all, if I say that I need 2 of sugar for a recipe, do you know if I mean 2 tablespoons, 2 grams, 2 cups or 2 kilos? That's why from the very first time I introduce measurements to my students I always … [Read more...]
Science Corner: Spring Flower Dissection
Spring is a exceptional time to take a closer look at the structure of a flower. Many of the typical spring blooms, such as lilies, tulips and daffodils, have clearly seen elements, which makes them excellent specimens for your students to study the structure of a flower. One of the best was to do this is through a flower dissection, but how does one perform such a dissection? Step by Step … [Read more...]
How to choose your homeschool science curriculum
As homeschoolers, many of us adhere to a certain learning philosophy, such as classical or interest-led. These methods give us a basic framework for choosing curricula, but it can still be a challenge to find the one specific curriculum that fits your particular family. Every family has different goals and learning styles, which means that no one homeschool science curriculum can fit every … [Read more...]
Using Lapbooks to Teach Science
Are you looking to enhance your science curriculum? Or are you wanting to use something a bit different to teach science in your homeschool? How about using lapbooks to teach science? These incredible educational tools will help you to shake up your current educational plan. On top of that, lapbooks can inject some life and interest into the way your students record what they are learning … [Read more...]