Inspiring Young Scientists

This marking period in science we are focused on learning about the different types of energy and about how heat is produced- both through burning and electricity.  Unfortunately, there are not many safe experiments I can conduct here at school with a large group of students so I am working to make this portion of the curriculum come alive through technology- we can watch clips of cool experiments, read digital texts and articles about fossil fuels and electricity and discuss the different types of energy that exist.  Science is always a time of investigation and collaboration that students at this age really enjoy.

As you have probably heard in the news, the United States is striving to compete in science, technology, engineering and mathematical fields.  This is the direction the job market is headed and these are the types of careers we need to be preparing 21st century students for. 

Some fun experiments to try at homecan be found here.

Another things to consider is educational TV: the new "Cosmos" show on Fox is a great start.  Here is President Obama introducing this new show.  The show is appropriate for students and is meant to engage and excite them about science and the study of the universe.  It is on at 9pm on Sundays and could be recorded and may be available on demand.

Lastly, consider signing your child up for one of the after school clubs starting soon here at Page- STEM Jr. is a choice!!! Most clubs are $35, which is a great bargain!

A few reminders:

• Reading MSA is this Thursday and Friday, March 6 & 7. Students are invited to bring a healthy snack for after testing.
• Students should be reading their Realistic Fiction chapter books for their book reports.
• Students are currently collecting spare change for "Pennies for Patients", which benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
• My classroom is in need of some pencils and smaller size (8-12 oz.) bottles of hand sanitizer.