Understanding the World Around Us SCIENCE Understanding the World Around Us

CHEMISTRY Suspension: oil and water in a jar Chemical reaction: vinegar and baking soda Chemical change: ice cube and salt

PHYSICAL Balance Weight and Size Movements Gravity Water: Sink or Float Magnets Machines: wheels, gears, lever, etc.

BIOLOGY Living and non-living things Animals Habitats and Diets

BOTANY Plants Germination Photosynthesis Purpose of plants: food, building, clothing, etc.

ASTROLOGY-METEOROGY Sun Light and Dark: Shadows Stars Weather

ECOLOGY Conservation Recycling Erosion Care of the Environment

Effective Questioning To encourage children to discover scientific principles, the teacher should use effective questioning. These questions should help the child discover concepts for him/herself. OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS: Promotes discussion - require decision-making skills What are you observing? How could you group these? What happens when you ….? CLOSED-ENDED QUESTIONS: Single answer or Yes/No answers What color is it? What shape is it? Do you like to look at the fish?

Science Table Collections Have a table set up where materials are available for the child to examine with his/her senses. Collections may include: Leaves, nuts, rocks, plastic animals (insects, wild, farm), seeds, seashells, building tools (no sharp edges), pine cones and pine needles, building materials, etc.

Materials Some of the materials and equipment that can be included in the science area are: A globe, mirrors, flashlights, classroom pets, plants, magnets, nature items, magnifying glasses, a microscope, pictures, etc.