Biology: Frogs and Butterflies
Life is a fragile
thing, both beautiful and sometimes tragic as it begins. Classroom activities
could include an aquarium of tadpoles
maturing into frogs
(and transitioning from aquatic creatures to land-based organisms), or a
collection of butterfly, moth, and other insect larvae that matures into
majestic flying creatures. Introducing the early stages of life makes a great
starting point for deeper investigations into life and the world around us.
Climate: Linking Weather and Biology
The success of every
living thing depends on its ability to adapt to the surroundings in which it
lives. A classic activity uses sealed containers with frogs or insects and the
presence or absence of living plants to demonstrate the importance of oxygen. The
converse is true as well, so plants require a steady supply of carbon dioxide.
From there, students
can experiment with variables such as heat, light, and the availability of
water - factors that can be easily tested using mushrooms, bread mold, or
ordinary pond water.
Learning the States of Matter
Three of the four
states of matter can be easily demonstrated
in the classroom
using only water, a beaker, and fire. Start with ice cubes for the solid state,
then allow it to melt into a liquid state. Once the ice cubes have completely
melted, transform the water into a gas by applying heat. To demonstrate the
plasma state of matter, the fire used to heat the water is a great example of
plasma, which can only exist under constant conditions of energy transfer.
Fluorescent and neon lights are other examples of this elusive state of matter.
The Joys of Chemical and Elemental Magic
Learning about the
basic states of matter allows a transition into the atoms, molecules, and
elements that comprise them. While the science is very complex, it is easy to
experiment with the basic concepts. Household chemicals and other ingredients
can be used to demonstrate many facets of chemical and elemental reactions and
interactions, including such ideas as:
·
Specific
gravity
(solids and oils in water)
·
Natural
separation of fluids (oil, water, and alcohol)
·
Sedimentary
properties
(sand and water)
·
Chemical
reactions
(vinegar and baking soda)
·
Erosion (dripping fluids on
soft clay)
Maximizing Montessori Method
Keeping children immersed and active is a basic tenet of the Montessori Method. The field of science is an ideal subject because indoor and outdoor activities can show real-world examples of how science affects our lives, right down to explaining how the environment is impacted by the things we do. The Montessori School of Flagstaff Switzer Mesa Campus teaches students ages 6-12 the importance of learning science, especially in today's society. Starting students off with a solid foundation using the activities above will only help our students as they continue throughout their education and adult lives.
