Winter Science Discussion Starters


Discussion Starters - Educational Innovations NewsletterIf you have a favorite winter science lesson or activity, please leave us a comment below!

Thanks to Julie Olson, President SDSTA, for sharing two excellent discussion starters related to winter:

  • Which will melt first: a snowman with or without a coat?
  • Is the commercial “melting snowman” really melting?

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Winter Science Lesson


Lesson - Educational Innovations BlogLooking for an engaging winter science lesson?  How about a blubber mitt?  It’s a great way to explore many subjects:  thermodynamics, animal adaptation, insulating properties, density, and perception, to name just a few.

If you’re teaching animal adaptation, your students may also be interested in this Top Ten Hibernators list, from cold-blooded animals such as frogs to mammals like prairie dogs.

Enjoy!

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You Said It! Winter Science Product Reviews


You Said It! Product Reviews - Educational Innovations NewsletterFor many of us, winter is a time for staying indoors.  But that doesn’t mean the learning stops!  There are many hands-on demonstrations and activities that we can share with our students during the colder months.   These popular science materials will keep your students’ interest percolating all winter long.  Read on for rave winter science product reviews from science teachers, parents, and self-proclaimed science geeks.

If you have a favorite Educational Innovations product, send us a comment below!  We’d love to share your review with your fellow teachers and science lovers.

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Clever Science Gifts from Santa


Priscilla Robinson, Educational Innovationsby:  Priscilla Robinson

Remembrances of Gifts Past

If I look back upon the presents that had the greatest influence on me, they were all gifts that made me wonder, encouraged me to play cooperatively, or gave me a sense of confidence and independence.  Those same values have often trickled into my lessons as a science teacher, my priorities as a parent, and even the way I play with my grandchildren.

Many of us are working hard to raise a generation of thinkers, doers, and life-long learners… but do we have enough time in our busy days to make the kinds of smart holiday purchases that will help carry that forward?  How much multi-tasking can one mere mortal manage?

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Pumpkin Pie and Science at Nana’s House This Year


Priscilla Robinson, Educational Innovationsby:  Priscilla Robinson

With the Halloween cobwebs retired and my Jack-O-Lantern wilting in the compost heap, my thoughts and energy turn toward Thanksgiving.  This year undoubtedly will be filled with family, friends, feasts, and laughter.  In past years, after the meal and second slice of pie, I have enjoyed keeping the kids focused with decorating gingerbread houses as adult family members enjoy time together cheering on their footballs teams or gaining bragging rights during epic board game battles. Read the rest of this entry »