October 7, 2016
by Dr. Kenneth Lyle
The demonstration
The Poly Density Bottle is a fascinating demonstration primarily due to the phenomena being counterintuitive to what one would expect. The bottle containing white and blue beads suspended in a clear and colorless liquid is shaken vigorously, distributing the beads randomly throughout (bottle A). Upon standing, the beads separate from one another (bottle B) with the white rising to the surface while the blue sink to the bottom (bottle C). Then, the two sets of beads move towards one another (bottle D) meeting near the middle (bottle E). This demonstration can be easily repeated again and again. And, once prepared, it can be stored for subsequent use year after year. No additional preparation is required. Read the rest of this entry »
2 Comments | 
Chemistry, College level, density, Elementary level, experiments, High School level, Middle School level | Tagged: density, discrepant event, DIY, Educational Innovations, hands-on activity, homeschool, parent friendly, PBL, phenomenon based learning, phenomenon-based science, science | 
Permalink
Posted by Donna Giachetti
September 23, 2016
By Ken Byrne
Someone once told me that all magic is science, and all science is magic. To me, a magic show is a series of puzzles for me to solve, trying to figure out just how they pulled off an illusion. My favorite science demonstrations are much the same. I love those demonstrations that make me scratch my head and ask, “Why?”
Here is one of my favorites that is easy and inexpensive. It feels like a magic trick, but it is all science. It simply involves rolling a cylinder down an inclined plane. Sometimes the cylinder will roll down quickly. Other times it will crawl down slowly. Read the rest of this entry »
Leave a Comment » | Chemistry, College level, density, Elementary level, experiments, High School level, Middle School level | Tagged: density, discrepant event, DIY, Educational Innovations, experiments, fun experiments, hands-on activity, homeschool, parent friendly, PBL, phenomenon based learning, phenomenon-based science, science, STEM | Permalink
Posted by Donna Giachetti
September 9, 2016
Back to School with Discrepant Event Science!
by Mike Matthews
After a restful summer (which included a move to a new school!), classes are finally back in session! I always begin the year with a set of activities that challenge students to practice science process skills (observing, recording data, asking questions, etc.). My approach includes a series of quick “discrepant event” demos that captivate (and baffle) my students. From trying to figure out why two ice cubes melt at dramatically different rates to brainstorming explanations for how a sealed opaque balloon suddenly starts self-inflating, these demos engage students, assess their science skills, and emphasize the processes and habits that scientists use to inquire about the world around them.
Read the rest of this entry »
1 Comment | College level, Elementary level, High School level, Middle School level | Tagged: discrepant event, Educational Innovations, fun experiments, hands-on activity, homeschool, parent friendly, PBL, phenomenon based learning, phenomenon-based science, science, STEM, variables | Permalink
Posted by Donna Giachetti
August 26, 2016
by Priscilla Robinson
Empowering Performance
The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) had a strong presence at the 2016 NSTA Science Conference held this past March in Nashville, Tennessee. The conference theme was “Empowering Performance” and that’s the foundation upon which the NGSS standards are balanced. Enthusiastic keynote speeches empowered teachers to help their students “Change the World!” Educators dashed to workshops and the exhibit hall in search of solutions that will help them understand, implement and survive this rising tide of new science learning standards. Presently, with 19* states and the District of Columbia already on board with the NGSS adoption, updated standards are making their way into classrooms across the nation.
Read the rest of this entry »
Leave a Comment » | College level, Elementary level, High School level, Middle School level | Tagged: Educational Innovations, homeschool, NGSS, parent friendly, PBL, phenomenon based learning, phenomenon-based science, science, STEM | Permalink
Posted by Donna Giachetti
August 22, 2016
by Priscilla Robinson
Who doesn’t like to celebrate a big birthday? As we mark the centennial year of the National Park Service (NPS) on August 25, we as teachers can hook our students’ curiosity with the extensive network of America’s scenic spaces, indigenous wildlife, and natural resources. If ever there was a year for a solid and diverse learning theme, this is it! Keep the parties going as teachable moments—this is the best time for teachers to nurture lifelong learners and wards of the Earth.
Read the rest of this entry »
2 Comments | College level, Earth Science, Elementary level, High School level, Middle School level | Tagged: Educational Innovations, homeschool, parent friendly, PBL, phenomenon based learning, phenomenon-based science, science | Permalink
Posted by Donna Giachetti
