Build a Sundial
Building a sundial introduces children
to a different kind of clock. Since the only materials needed for a sundial are
a stick, some markers, and a small space open to the sunlight, this project
provides a great deal of educational opportunity without much, if any, expense.
Among the lessons to be learned from a sundial are:
·
Affects
of seasons on daylight hours
·
Understanding
time segments
·
Sunlight
variations based on geographic location
Variations on Volcanoes
Building a volcano is
a popular and simple project that teaches children about earth processes,
chemistry, and object modeling. The basic design uses a clay, paper-mâché, or
other “volcanic” peak, and the eruptions can be created using combinations of
household chemicals. There are a variety of ways to build an experimental
volcano,
each with its own unique properties to be discovered.
Experimenting with Water Filtration
Allowing children to
work with different types of materials to create a water filter teaches them
about the density and porousness of material, the importance of clean water,
and the importance of natural filtration systems such as ponds and swamps.
Basic filters can be designed with a
plastic bottle,
some moss, and ditch water, which makes an excellent jumping off point to learn
about larger systems, reverse osmosis, and particle filtration.
Understanding the Block and Tackle
The invention of the
block and tackle transformed the way people work by allowing them to
accomplish more with less energy expenditure. Because pulleys are such an
important part mechanical engineering and technology, experimenting and understanding
the principles is vital to a well-rounded education. As part of an educational
foray into horsepower and work potential, the block and tackle will give middle
schoolers a fun and informative insight. Other important and basic tools in
this category include the inclined plane and levers.In Montessori learning, students are encouraged to investigate cause and effect, which in turn enables them to master the basic principles of the physical world. Everything from building sandcastles to designing a working soapbox racer are more than just fun activities - they are teaching children how science, engineering and technology, all of which are shaped by mathematics, make their world a more comfortable place to live in a way that is engaging and exciting.
Middle school students at the Montessori School of Flagstaff Cedar Campus learn about STEM through activities in their daily curriculum. This introduces students to wide variety of ways STEM is incorporated into their lives and could serve as inspiration for furthering their education in these fields once they have completed high school. Call us today to see the difference of the Montessori curriculum.
