Do you ever stop to think about how much math and numbers you use in an average day? Checking your gas gauge before going for a drive, checking the outdoor thermometer before dressing for the day, and measuring ingredients for a recipe are just a few examples of our use of numbers and math.
Science Lab @ Home: Simple Machines Bingo
Simple machines are objects we use to help us do work. In other words, they make everyday tasks much easier! Take the mechanism that allows you to raise and lower window blinds. There’s a pulley in there! It allows you to pull down while the shade goes up. What about a knife you would use to cut a watermelon? That’s a wedge. Applying pressure with the sharp side splits the thick watermelon rind in two.
Science Lab @ Home: Bridge Bingo
Do you ever pay attention to the bridges you drive over or under? Some of them are definitely impressive sights to see, but even the simplest bridge forms we encounter were game-changing engineering marvels at some point in the past.
Science Lab @ Home: Weather
June 20th is the official first day of Summer which means hotter weather, bright sunshine and… thunderstorms! Prep for the summer months ahead by learning the importance of lightning safety, so you can watch and enjoy the power of Mother Nature, safely.
Science Lab @ Home: Physics
Whether it’s done with a softball and glove, a beach ball, or even a hacky sack, playing catch is a great way to have fun. But it’s also a great physics lesson, which is why we’re taking this opportunity to learn about trajectories, potential and kinetic energy, and velocity.
Science Lab @ Home: Geology
Did you ever have a rock collection? Many people have at some point in their lives. Aside from providing some interesting things to look at, rock collections encourage lots of opportunities for exploration and learning.
Science Lab @ Home: Bicycles
One of the best ways to beat the quarantine blues is to get some fresh air and exercise! United Nations celebrates the bicycle each June for its contributions to health, mobility, and the environment.
Science Lab @ Home: Acoustics
Celebrate International Drum Month (May) with us this week by exploring the world of sound! The Acoustical Society of America has some great resources dedicated to learning more about the physics of sound through listening and hands-on activities. Or grab an instrument and learn to play – research suggests that playing music improves memory and attention, while also reducing stress!
Science Lab @ Home: Museums
Celebrate International Museum Day all week long by “visiting” some museums and maybe even creating a museum of your very own! From dinosaurs, to space, to computer technology, to fine arts, you never know what you’ll discover at a museum.
