| Description |
This study group will provide a hands-on introduction to a wide array of science concepts through experimentation. Each session will begin with a demonstration of the experiment materials that will be used and a very brief discussion of the science concepts to be demonstrated with those materials, using language geared to the ability-level of the group. For example – transverse and longitudinal waves, nodes, and superimposition of waves will be described and demonstrated in simple terms. Study group participants will experiment with the materials provided at one or more activity stations (with the assistance of an instructor, when necessary). Participants will be encouraged to add to or alter the experiments in any way they find interesting (i.e., using the materials provided in additional ways, beyond what was shown in demonstrations). A video/photo journal of the activities performed in each session will be posted online for the families of study group participants, to facilitate further discussion outside the group, if desired.
Anticipated topics include: behavior of waves, color and light, sound, density/buoyancy/flight, magnets and magnetic fields, water chemistry, observing and classifying natural objects, force and motion.
Example activities include: Making and/or working with slinkies, wave pool, prisms, light filters, flashlights, laser pointers, tin can phones, tuning forks, paper airplanes, toy helicopters, varied shapes of magnets and iron filings, vinegar/baking soda/pH indicator solutions, glue/borax “slime,” microscope, balance.
NOTE: If a wide age range of participants is interested, I can provide an opening "lecture" for the older kids first, and allow the youngest kids to join later to experiment at the stations without an extensive explanation of science concepts. |