Apologia Chemistry and Young Explorers Chemistry and Physics: Let’s play with Polymers!

Today is all about playing with polymers:  Vanishing Marbles, Instant Snow, and Flabbergasted or Slime.  Take a look at the slime link.  The idea today is to experiment!  I’m bringing several types of glue for the kids to combine with borax solution to test their different properties.   The Instant Snow link has ideas for experiments, too.  The kids will have fun in the context of solid experimental design.  Today, all of the kids in both classes are working together.

Apologia Chemistry: Organic Nomenclature Crash Course

Quick Update:  Goodwill online often has molecular models.  Search with ‘molecular’, ‘molecule’, and under kits.

Christmas Break looms large.  We are taking a break from balancing chemical reactions to learn organic nomenclature.  First I review an Introduction to Organic Nomenclature and draw several examples on the board.  I have the kids copy the names of the first ten Alkanes.  Yes, I use terms such as parent chain, substitute St, and functional groups.  Once I’ve drawn a few hydrocarbons, I build a molecule or two to compare it with those on the board.  Then I throw the kids right into the worksheets, which view, condensed structural formulas, line formulas, and molecular formulas.  After. The kids have completed five molecules, I have them build the five with the molecule kits to make the connection in their heads.  Trust me this approach works.

I use these worksheets: WS 10.4 and WS 10.7   I also have the kids build the molecules they name.  I bought these models online at Goodwill, over a few years because I use them for Biology, Chemistry, and Physical Science.  You could make your own kits.   I recommend marshmallows or clay models.  CPK Coloring represents the traditional colors for the atoms.We use three different kits to build the organic molecules: Moly Mod, Molecular Vision, and Molecules of Life.

Apologia Young Explorers Chemistry and Physics: Atoms

The younger students are working on several chemical topics: elements cards, ionic formula writing, and atom models similar to the atoms in the textbook.  My husband, Rob, is working with two of the moms for this class.  One mom, Christine, is taking the lead to explain atoms, electrons, protons, and neutrons.  The kids made paper plate molecules.  The kids glued protons and neutrons in the center or nucleus with star electrons around the perimeter.  The younger kids worked on their element cards.  We separated the older kids and taught them how to identify types of chemical reactions.

Apologia Chemistry: Chemical Reactions

We started to learn how to identify and balance chemical reactions.  This reaction lab is similar to the one I use which a colleague gave me years ago.  Start with Identifying Types of Chemical Reactions, Six Types of Reactions, or Khan Academy.  

Use practice worksheets with answers!  The more the better!

Apologia Chemistry and Young Explorers Chemistry and Physics: Intro to Periodic Table

Today both groups started together for an introduction to the Periodic Table.  (You might try this activity.)  I like to differentiate metals and nonmetals, liquids, gases, and solids, and groups and families.  Here are the names of the groups or families.  We briefly explained the numbering systems of the groups.  I start with a discussion of the origin of the names of the elements, i.e. countries, Greek gods, coinage metals known to antiquity, etc.  We colored and labeled the groups using several different periodic tables: Periodic Table with liquids, gases, and solids.  names of groups,  The younger kids also worked on their elements cards.  Fun!

Apologia Chemistry: Heat Sources

One tool common to science labs is the Bunsen burner.  Home-school and Co-op setting frequently use alcohol burners.  When I taught in public school there were students who just acted like nimrods in class.  I got in the habit of using electric burners whenever possible because they were so much safer.  Last week, we used tea candles and Sterno to heat Hydrates for Lab.  Stern has dyes added to make the flame more visible; it isn’t suitable for flame tests—we’ll have to use alcohol burners for that lab.  We tested adding small amounts of the salts to tea candles with mixed results.  These color flame candles are a good alternative for flame tests.  Whenever possible, we’ll be using electric burners in lab.

Apologia Young Explorers’ Chemistry and Physics: Properties of Matter

My husband, Rob, is leading this class.  Today, the kids worked on Try-it’s from Lesson 1 and 2, mainly, properties of Matter.  First the kids dropped water on to wax paper.  They went a little further and tried to move the drop, divide it, etc.  Rob created a contest to see who could drop the most drops of water on to a penny.  The kids also measured 50 mL of water in a graduated  cylinder to discuss the meniscus which forms.  During the same lab the kids created Oobleck, a nonNewtonian fluid.  Lastly, the kids made Lava lamps.  During each activity, the kids took time to explore, observe, and learn more about the correct terms.  Rob is careful to reinforce terms, such as viscosity.  Which fluid is more viscose or dense?  Because we meet in the Maker Lab of a library, there are library patrons stopping by nearly every class to observe, ask questions, and try activities.  Cool, right?

Apologia Chemistry: Hydrates Lab or Percent Composition Lab

We’re working on nomenclature.  Yes, still.  On Tuesday, I reviewed several topics under inorganic nomenclature: Ionic compounds, covalent molecules, binary and ternary acids, the Stock system, and Hydrates.  I also showed the kids how to calculate molar mass.  Today, we did this Quick Lab, Percent Composition with Hydrates: copper sulfate pentahydrate, calcium chloride dehydrate, sodium phosphate dodecahydrate  and magnesium sulfate decahydrate.  We used Pyrex test tubes, which are heat tempered, tea candles, and Sterno to heat the chemicals.  I keep glass beakers on hand to extinguish the flames.  The tea candles or Sterno are safer than an alcohol burner.  Be sure to weigh the test tubes.  Sometimes, the chemical sticks inside.  You’ll need to weigh both before scraping it out as you clean the test tube.

Apologia Chemistry: Nomenclature

Yesterday, we did a brief review of Ionic and covalent nomenclature and learned how to name acids using this song sung to the tune from the movie Bridge Over the River Kwai
Acids, there are two kinds of them
Acids, there are two kinds of them
Binary, you add a hydro, add an “ic” and an acid
Then you’re done, done, done, done

Acids, there are two kinds of them
Acids there are two kinds of them
Ternary, if it’s “ite” make it “ous”
If it “ate” make it “ic”, add an acid
And you’re done, done,done,done.

And then there’s Oxygen, if there’s two less of them
Hypo is what we call it then
Too many “O’s’ make it “per” you know
One less O and then it’s “ite”
That’s no fright!
And we’re done, done, done, done


For example:
HCl.  Binary acid (two atoms) is hydrochloric acid
HNO3. Ternary acid (three or more atoms) is nitric acid ( The nitrate ion becomes “ic.”)
HNO2 is nitrous acid. (Nitrite ion becomes ”ous”)

Young Explorers Chemistry and Physics: Lesson 1

Our Co-op class have five children ages 7-11.  Sound familiar?  Gen, who is 11, is also very bright and capable.  Fortunately, I have experienced this situation in my Human Anatomy class.  Gen finished the Mystery Powders and Density measures quickly and accurately.  Gen is going to be the teacher’s assistant.  Yesterday, when the four boys were working on measures, correct use of a scale, density by displacement, use of calipers, and measuring volume with angraduated cylinder, Gen created a density column and Rainbow Density columns (Steve Spangler has one in a straw!).  We had a few issues creating the salt water density column.  Gen followed the Instructable directions and the column was too muddy.  I did a little research and the consensus agrees with Jeanne Fulbright: drop the fluids down the middle not down the sides to creat distinct layers.  My husband, Rob, is leading the class; we have lengthy discussions between classes, especially in the car after a lesson.  (We’re about 30 minutes from the library.).  Gen is going to repeat this lab and instruct the boys using the Rainbow Salt column and just demonstrate the density column using syrup, oil, dish detergent, etc..  Rob is concerned about the boys making a huge mess.  The kids are going to repeat the penny boat experiment and create a data table for a magnet Try-it.  If time permits, all of them will do the Lava lamp, too.  The class structure is modified, too.  All of the kids will read over the chapters.  Gen is the only student pursuing it as a complete class.  The boys will learn the vocabulary, do some reading, and participate in all of the labs in class.  Gen is going to do a lot of lab prepping and assisting to keep her engaged.  I’m going to take time to show Gen how to create a concept map and a digital blog.  I’ll help her with nomenclature, balancing equations, etc.  Rob and I plan to select topics from the Chemistry chapters and dive into Physics.

Apologia Chemistry: Hydrates or Percent Composition

The Hydrate or Percent Composition Lab is the one I use when I need more time with nomenclature and want the kids to have a lab experience.  I introduce the idea of hydrates, Percent Composition, and molar mass, while continuing to instruct in nomenclature.  Tomorrow, I’m going to introduce acid nomenclature, review the Stock System, covalent molecules, and Ionic compounds.  I plan to test the kids soon.  I let the kids use an ion chart and the Greek prefixes when I test them on nomenclature.  On Tuesday, my plan is to have the lab, teach them how to calculate molar mass and Percent Composition. Wish me luck.

Young Explorers Chemistry and Physics: Lesson One

So, we are officially in class!  My husband, Rob, is taking charge of the class, which runs concurrently with Chemistry. Today the kids are doing Flinn Scientific's Measurement Challenge.  Rob is catching up Anna and doing the volume, mass, and density calculations with Gen, who will help as class aide for the younger boys.  Does this sound familiar?  Co-op operates in a similar manner to your home-school classroom.  Rob want to emphasize data tables, careful notes, units, and a little math.  We're measuring and comparing densities to a bunch of materials: glass marbles, acrylic blocks, metal cubes, etc.

Apologia Chemistry: Tools

Another quick note about lab tools.  I try to do chemistry labs in microscale whenever possible, mainly because it’s both cheaper and safer.  These labs require microscale tools, such as toothpicks, disposable pipets, reaction plates or spot plates, q-tips, and cassette cases, which can hold pipettes.  I look for cassettes at thrift stores.  Plastic paint palettes can serve as reaction plates.  I buy craft sticks in boxes of 1000 and pipets in boxes of 500 from Amazon.

Young Explorers Chemistry and Physics: New Class

My husband, Rob, and I are in the midst of Chemistry.  We just added students to our Co-op class.  One of the moms has asked us to teach her younger students, too.  So, we’re adding Apologia’s Young Explorer’s Chemistry and Physics to the roster.  I love this book.  Two years ago, one of the siblings in my Physical Science class attended-but worked her lessons from Chemistry and Physics.  I used several of the lessons with the two Physical Science classes I was teaching at the time.  Right now, all of the kids are working on a Forensics Lab called Mystery Powders.  I mean everyone-even the seven and eight year old siblings.  The girls have already correctly identified all ten unknowns.  So, we’re going to start the first chapter in Chemistry and Physics and work on measurements and density.  Two of the girls have completed Flinn’s Measurement Challenge. While all of the other groups complete the White Powder Forensics Lab, the girls will get started on Density, Chapter One in Chem and Physics.   My goal is to make G., who is eleven, Rob’s aide because the other boys are seven to nine and will need help.  I’ve used this strategy before with Co-op groups where the age and ability range was great.  I like a challenge!  Stay posted.

Apologia Chemistry: White Powder Lab

The White Powder Lab is a great lab to do with common materials:  paint palette (reaction plate or spot plate), medicine droppers for a pipet, red cabbage indicator solution (or pool indicator solution), vinegar (instead of an acid), water, and iodine.  Be sure to include cornstarch as a powder because it’s the only one to react with iodine.  I used ten powders; this lab can be modified to include six or more, even fourteen to make it more or less challenging.

Apologia Chemistry White Powder Lab: Qualitative Analysis Scheme

We started the white powder lab, or this version, are versions of the Mystery Powder, White Powder, or Forensics Lab.  I began with a brief nomenclature review for several of the white powders: borax, glucose (corn sugar), sucrose (white sugar), cream of tartar, Plaster of Paris, Kosher salt, Epsom salts, baking soda, baking powder, and cornstarch.  Some of the powders are fine and others are more crystalline.  The first thing I did was review a few formulas and their names: sodium hydrogen carbonate or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), magnesium sulfate (Epsom salts), calcium carbonate (plaster), and sodium biphosphate or sodium hydrogen phospate (baking powder).  We had just begun nomenclature and these were reasonable examples to try.  Next, I explained how the kids would perform the test with these reagents: universal indicator, phenol red, vinegar, water, and iodine.  The kids perform all of these tests on all of these powders.  The technique is to put a few grams into five wells of a reaction plate and then test each sample.  The key is to write detailed descriptions of any changes.  The kids perform these tests (say 10 drops of reagent on each sample of the powder) and make careful notes.  The next step is to identify these same chemicals numbered 1-10 as unknowns.  Be warned, the lab takes a long time.  Allow two-three hours.  We plan to do this lab over several class periods.  I like it because it introduces a qualitative analysis scheme, nomenclature, and lab practices.  The kids learn how important it is not to cross contaminate or pour materials back into their containers.  The kids feel like real scientists.  We had extra participants today join us!

Apologia Chemistry: Tips for Nomenclature

Flinn's Putting the Ions in Their Hands lab has a valuable ion formula chart.  Keep it close.
The first lesson is writing binary compound tutorial.  Binary means 'two', a cation, or positively charged ion, and an anion, or negatively charged ion.  Binary ionic formulas are made from a metal and a nonmetal or a cation and an anion.  Anions, such as Cl- are called chloride as opposed to Cl, chlorine, an element.

There are some common polyatomic ions: nitrate, phosphate, sulfate, carbonate, bicarbonate, acetate, ammomium, and hydroxide.  Learn these.

Lastly, is the Stock System.  Iron II, Iron III, Copper I, and Copper II are used extensively and may crop up on the ACT.

Our class made element cards before class began and have tested on the Periodic Table.  It really helps to make and name the cards in order to memorize their names and formulas.  Module 3 in Apologia Chemistry has detailed explanations.

Yes, I use the cheesy red cat and blue ant to emphasize cations are positive and anions are negative.

Update: Today's class is all about learning nomenclature!

Apologia Chemistry: Module 3 Ionic Formula Lab

Once the kids do the lab, I have them learn how to mix compounds, make solutions, react, and write the formulas.  We're really doing single replacement reactions.  I use a small scale lab from Prentice Hall with the chemicals I have on hand.  The kids make up 1M solutions and then drop 5-10 drops of each and record a reaction.  Then the kids write the formulas of the resulting products.  Fun!
Update:  We took another class to repeat the lab and write the formulas.

Module 3: Ionic Nomenclature

Putting the Ions in Their Hands is my weapon of mass instruction to teach how to name ionic compounds.  Really.  Here are some practice worksheets.  The key to learn how to name and write ionic formulas is to practice.
Ionic formula writing worksheet and key
Lots of ionic formula writing practice

New NSTA reviews published!

Microbes: Microbes

Who Made My Lunch Series: Lunch

NSTA: Picture-Perfect Science Lessons Grades 3-6

I Review material for NSTA frequently and received a catalog of their publications.  In it was ‘Picture-Perfect Science Lessons’, which uses children’s literature to frame inquiry- based science lessons.  It’s more of a manual for either elementary teachers or librarians.  The local libraries all have Maker spaces.  So, I was curious.  The science and inquiry tools are sound.  For example, Chapter 4 describes BSCS 5E Instructional Model, a great tool to use to create science lessons.  The manual includes a variety of types of lessons in physical, life, and earth sciences.  For example, Chapter 8, Rice is Life, includes books about rice, germination activities, and a small Journal.  Mystery Pellets, Chapter 10 includes owl pellet dissections, relevant word sort Cards, and food webs. There are loads of ideas for activities: letters to conservation groups, building instruments, even making a ‘fortune-teller’.  Fun!  See if your library has a copy.  This book would be a great supplement to science lessons at Co-op.

Apologia Chemistry: Resources

I ran across AACT, the American Association of Chemistry Teachers.  They have some great resources, such as Three Station Gas Law Lab.  Yes, I already have scads of labs—but I’m always looking for labs which can be performed at home or in a Co-op setting with everyday materials.  Take a look.

Apologia Chemistry Module 1: Measures

Update: After the lab, we spent time reviewing metric prefixes, SI units, significant figures, with examples and practice.  My husband, Rob, leads the math exercises.  I like to do a few problems together, assign problems to work individually, check answers, and finally, explain problems most of the kids missed.  With this method, we can hone in on which students need more help individually.  After class, Rob spent 20 minutes teaching A.

Yes, we’re still in Module 1, Day One.  For my classes, Day One can last a month.  My goal is to introduce a host of skills.  Tomorrow’s class we’ll finish Flinn’s Reaction in a Bag.  The kids observed a change in temperature and we didn’t have any thermometers.  We’ll repeat the lab and measure temperature changes. ( BTW, the phenol red in the lab is the same indicator solution used in many pool kits.  The lab calls for 10 mL and small samples of chemicals are available through Home Training Tools.). Here’s the overview of tomorrow’s lesson.

Lesson Thursday

1. Check Koolaid, Cards, Density, Accuracy Lab, Safety contracts, emails, student names, notebooks, Concepts maps Module 1, and Reaction in a Bag.
2. Finish Reaction in a bag with thermometers. Show them how to use digital thermometers.
3. Conversions WS
4. Greek prefixes
5. Sig. Fig. WS
6. Precision vs Accuracy
7. Job of Zero
8. Degree of Accuracy
9. Koolaid Lab example: degree of accuracy with mass and cup of sugar.
10. Practice Sheets
11. Check sci fair ideas
12. Null and Alternative hypotheses
13. Controlled, confounding, and independent variables
14. Review WS, Lab, Problem solving note-keeping and digital records.
15. Notebook Guidelines:  organize information into tables, concept maps, list, include title, name, and date, each value has units of measure and a label, such as mean, median, and mode, or sugar, water, Koolaid.

Apologia Chemistry: Reaction in a Bag from Flinn

Today we discussed ideas for Science Fair.  To be continued.  Then we spent 30 minutes with Flinn's Reaction in a Bag.  I like this lab because it uses three chemicals: phenol red solution, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), and calcium chloride (ice melt--check the bag).  The reaction takes place in a plastic ziplock baggie.  We double bag the reaction in a giant gallon bag and cover the table in newsprint because we are meeting in the Maker Space at the library.  You may want to replicate these precautions in your kitchen.  When we experimented at home, the labs took place either in the garage or basement.  The kids have a chance to combine these and make observations.  The materials are simple, but the results are dramatic.  Cool!

Apologia Chemistry: Precision

We finally finished the Density lab and began Accuracy and Precision. (This lab also teaches these concepts.)  I use an IPS lab which employs a Solo cup, ruler, and sponge.  The kids drop wet sponges into a Solo cup 30 times from a known distance and record the distance from the cup.  If the sponge lands in the cup the measure is 0; if the sponge lands outside the cup, the students measure (with a ruler) the distance the sponge lands from the cup.  Really.  The kids like this lab.  I have them calculate the mean, median, and mode for the 30 measures they record in a data table.

Here are pre-lab questions:
1. What is an accurate measurement in this experiment?
2. Where should the dropped sponges be measured from?
3. Should there be any regulations on how the student on the chair should stand? (Decide if you'll permit them to stand on a chair.)
4. What unit of measure should the class use to measure the dropped sponges? (cm or mm)

Post-Lab questions:
1. What was your most accurate measurement?  Why was it the most accurate?
2. Were your measurements precise?  Explain.
3. Can just one measurement be considered precise?  Accurate?  Explain.
4. Can measurements be precise, but NOT accurate?  Explain.
5.  Compare the mean, median, and mode.  Are they similar or different?
6.  Evaluate your procedure.  Was there enough detail?  What would you change?
7.  Did the data table you constructed fit the data you collected.

Conclusion.
Differentiate between accuracy and precision

Apologia Chemistry: Kool-aid check up, Density of Bowling Ball

Today was Bowling for Density or Will a Bowling Ball Float?  The answer is maybe.  League bowling balls have a maximum weight of 16 lbs.  A bowling ball less than 12 lbs will float and greater than 12 lbs will sink.  The density of water (add ice) is 1.0 g/mL.  We checked the recipes for the Kool-aid Lab, and Vanishing Volume, a discrepant event.  Next class, we’ll complete and debrief all of these labs, answering questions to understand the purpose.  The point is to understand measures, convert units, and calculations, all Module 1.

Apologia Chemistry: Graphing Calc 101 and Kool-aid Lab

The kids were asking about their graphing calculators so I decided to introduce a lesson for half the class.  When I teach TI 83/84, I bring a my TI ViewScreen, overhead, TI 84 graphing calculator, and a bag of TI 83 calculators.  We also use emulators and apps for iPad.  I post a TI  84 poster to show kids where the buttons are located.  When I taught in public schools, the math departments had suitcases with graphing calculators, overheads, and TI ViewScreens.  Ask the local high school to see if a teacher is willing to give your kids graphing lessons.  We learn how to enter and analyze data.  Once you learn how to graph and how to do regressions, you're set.  The TI 83, 84, and TINspire are similar.  Today, we just learned how to enter data in STAT.

The second half is the Kool-aid lab.  I ordered new plastic cyclinders, Kool-aid, and extra didgital scales.  The kids have to determine how much Kool-aid, sugar, and water to make a five ounce cup of Kool-aid.  The idea is to first convert the 2 quart, 1 cup, 1 package recipe to mL and grams.  FYI, there is about 150 grams in one cup of sugar.  One fluid ounce is roughly 30 mL.  Some of the kids just measured the amount of water the cup held in mL using the graduated cyclinder.  This activity takes 45 minutes.  My husband had one group weigh the Kool-aid.  Guess what?  The actual mass of Kool-aid powder varies from the mass listed on the package.  I've never verified the mass before.  The measures will be around 0.2 grams of Kool-aid, 10-15 grams of sugar, and 100-140 mL.  The results depend on how precisely the kids convert or round, the amount of water they use in a 5 oz. cup, whether they use one or two cups of sugar or one or two packages of Kool-aid in their recipes.  But this will give you a ball park estimate.

Apologia Chemistry: Accuracy and Precision.

This is an excellent lab requiring a ruler, plastic cup, and sponges.  You'll want to print these b/c I scanned them upside down.  My copy had stains.  But the lab is that good!  I have the kids design it.  They decide the height to drop it, etc.  I have the kids do 30 trials and record the mean, median, and mode.

Apologia Chemistry: Build basic equipment

I'm constantly reminded that many students do not have basic lab equipment or have large families with tight budgets. The Science Notebook has tips for creating and calibrating liquid measuring devices.  Try to locate a graduated cylinder--even on loan to calibrate your glassware or bottles.  Here are instructions to construct a scale.  A penny made before 1982 has a mass of three grams.  Pennies minted after 1982 have a mass of 2.5 grams.  (1982 pennies vary as the mints changed over.).  Nickels have a mass of five grams.  Coins can serve as weights for your scale.  We use craft sticks to mix and inexpensive plastic palettes as reaction plates.  Walmart sells inexpensive thermometers you can use for many experiments and can calibrate.

Apologia Chemistry: Periodic Table Test and Density or Measurement Lab

Today was the first time the kids took their periodic table tests.  They have to achieve 90% or retake the test until they achieve 90%.  I give them blank copies of the Periodic Table and expect them to know 1-50, Pt, Au, Hg, and Pb.  After the quiz, the kids started the Measurement Lab.  We measured the volume (directly and by displacement) of several objects: metal cubes, glass marbles, metal cylinders,  acrylic blocks, wood blocks, etc.  The kids created data tables of the objects, their mass, volume, density, and percent error.   Here is the volume of geometric objects,  the density of common objects, and direction to calculate percent error.

1. Review the formulas for density, volume of a sphere, rectangle, square, and cylinder.
2. Remind the kids that density= Mass/volume
3. Check that they know how to measure with a digital scale (tare or zero and use a weigh paper) and measure volume with the meniscus.
4. Create a Data Table:
Object              Mass           Volume         Density        Percent Error

5.  Plan for the lab to take at least one hour.  Really.

Apologia Chemistry: Day One

Day One lasts two or three weeks.  Yesterday, the second class session, we checked on the Elements Cards, graphing calculators and emulators, reviewed lab equipment, Claim, Evidence, Reasoning or CER, and taught the kids to create Concept Maps on paper using Measures from Module 1.  The kids are reading Module 1 for Tuesday.  I had hopes of watching the lab safety video; the computer at the library lacks speakers.  Next class, Tuesday, we'll look at Concept Map software, watch the safety film, sign the safety contracts, and do a lab.  Here's hoping for a good year!

Picture Perfect Science

NSTA has an interesting series called, Picture Perfect Science, which uses trade books as vehicles for inquiry-based science.  Pretty cool!  Ask the librarian to see if you can get a copy to examine.

Apologia Chemistry Begins

Today we started Chemistry with two activities: The Checks Lab Activity and The Cube Activities.  (The cubes are located after the article.). My class is 'inquiry-based', which uses data to drive discussions.  We also covered some administrivia.  Our class is using Google Classroom as a tool to house resources and keep records.

NSTA Review: 'Who Made My Lunch?'

Librarians, looking for a series to support National School Lunch week?  'Who Made My Lunch?' by Bridget Heos and illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman is ideal.  This six book series includes all the components of a typical child's lunch: peanut butter, jelly, wheat bread, cheese, ice cream, and chocolate.  The six titles are 'From Milk to Ice Cream', 'From Milk to Cheese', 'From Cocoa Beans to Chocolate', 'From Grapes to Jelly', 'From Peanuts to Peanut Butter', and 'From Wheat to Bread'.  Few children grow up on farms.  Instead children are disconnected from the origins of the food from the grocery store.  What offers more appeal than chocolate bars and ice cream or a classic PB& J sandwich?  The series is intended for the early elementary grades, K-3.  The text is clear without condescension.  For example, in 'From Wheat to Bread', the authors explains, " The wheat sprouts quickly.  But this is winter wheat.  During the cold months, it goes dormant.  That's sort of like taking a nap."  (p.6).  In 'From Peanuts to Peanut Butter', Heos includes interesting details, "At the peanut butter factory, you'll roast the peanuts in a hot oven.  The tray moves up and down so that the peanuts shake while they bake.  This way, they cook evenly." (p.15). At the end of each title is a map displaying where the grapes, peanuts, cocoa beans, etc is grown.  (p.23). On the last page (p.24) are brief glossaries, websites, and bibliographies.  The websites, while brief, are germane.  In the Chocolate book is a link to Fair Trade information and Peanuts includes a site about peanut and tree nut allergies.  The Grapes, Wheat,and Peanuts books could serve as springboards for class discussions about plant growth and cultivation before a science lesson planting seeds.  Any of these titles dovetail with nutrition lessons.  I'm confident children will find these books engaging.  The 'Who Made My Lunch?' Series would make an excellent addition to any library or classroom.

Into to Chemistry: Reaction in a Bag Lab

Here is one of the first labs we do in Chemistry, in lieu of a lecture on the ' Scientific Method'.  Flinn Scientific's Reaction in a Bag hones observation skills, introduces an indicator solution and produces a fabulous reaction.  I'll post photos when we get to this lab.

Science Fair Links

I put these links together for a work shop and wanted to share these.

Science Fair Resources 

1. Car exhaust Lab: http://lorpub.gadoe.org/State%20of%20Georgia/GAVS%20Shared/Science/APES_AirPollutionClimateChange_Shared/AirQuality.pdf
2. Project Worksheet: http://sc087.k12.sd.us/Science%20Fair%20Resources/5-12sciencefairprojectworksheet.pdf
3. Planning Guide: http://northport.k12.ny.us/backpack/getfile.aspx?id=177898
4. Science Fair Project Template (google)
5. Science Fair Information Packet: https://www.berkeleycountyschools.org/cms/lib/WV01000962/Centricity/Domain/34/Elementary%20Book.pdf
6. How to organize Science Fair: https://www.stevespanglerscience.com/blog/2011/03/04/science-fair-planning-and-creative-ideas/
7. Step by Step: https://www.phsd144.net/cms/lib3/IL01001725/Centricity/Domain/572/ScienceFairPacket.pdf
8. Bubble Rocket:http://wveis.k12.wv.us/teach21/cso/upload/UP3612WS7.doc
9. Do Pump Caps Preserve fizz?  http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showthread.php?t=176937 and https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fizz_keeper
10. Stain Removal:https://www.education.com/science-fair/article/best-way-stains-out-of-clothes/
11. Mud watt: https://www.homesciencetools.com/mudwatt-science-fair-pack
12. Water test:https://www.homesciencetools.com/watersafe-science-project-kit
13. Salt Water Energy: https://www.education.com/science-fair/article/salt-water-energy/ and Envirobattery: https://www.homesciencetools.com/enviro-battery-kit
14. Most effective sunscreen: https://www.stevespanglerscience.com/lab/experiments/uv-reactive-beads/
15. Kits and Ideas:https://www.teachersource.com/category/science-fair-ideas
16. Jelly Marbles: https://www.stevespanglerscience.com/lab/experiments/vanishing-jelly-marbles/
17. Reaction Rocket:https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn.teachersource.com/downloads/lesson_pdf/RKT-625.pdf
18. Clothes that Glow: https://sciencenotes.org/list-of-things-that-glow-under-black-light/ and Glow Putty and more: https://www.brit.co/glowing-products/
19. Homemade Hand Warmers: https://www.homesciencetools.com/a/homemade-hand-warmers
20. Bird Feeders: https://www.homesciencetools.com/a/bird-science-projects-for-elementary (number of birds or variety
21. List of Winning Projects: https://www.berkeleycountyschools.org/cms/lib/WV01000962/Centricity/Domain/34/Elementary%20County%20Winners.pdf

Get ready for Chemistry!

Chemistry begins in ten days!   Yeah!  I have twenty items scheduled to do the first day.  Honestly, I make up a long list of skills the kids need and label it all 'Day One'.  Day One continues for two weeks.  First is The Checks Lab which uses checks as a device for kids to use existing data to determine what the story is behind all of the checks.  The science is to base your hypothesis on existing evidence.  (I like to remind kids that their faith is also based on evidence from
God.). These teacher notes may help.  I also teach about the inquiry process using this Cube Activity.  Both of these activities are from inquiry-based workshops I gave through College Board.  Both are instrumental in instructing how to approach science.

Young Explorer Human Anatomy: Chapter One Cells

The first unit in Human Anatomy introduces Cells.  Make clay animal cell models.  Have the kids color and label animal cells first.  Next have the kids create their own models in clay.  Some children like to make flag labels to poke into their model.  Others prefer to make keys.  It doesn't matter.  Then, by all means, make an edible cell; the kids love cells made with candy!  I like to make, color, and label animal cells in several media.  Trust me, the kids will be able to identify cell parts.  Be sure to have the older children complete the Journal activities requiring them to understand the function of the different organelles.  This is an easy way to differentiate instruction.  Everyone made models; the older children had a greater depth of understanding.

Young Explorers Human Anatomy: Skeletal System

A friend of mine is prepping her Anatomy program for fall.  One of our lessons was the skeletal system.  I bought a plastic skeleton from Target in early October for $15.   The first question I asked the children was, "Is this toy skeleton scientifically accurate?"  We used  worksheets and spent time naming and labeling the bones before we determined the skeleton was accurate.  Older children can write the names of the bones and tape them on to the skeleton or review these names with younger children orally.  We did lots of both.  The kids liked making all sorts of skeletons.  We liked pasta skeletons to make and label and full size paper skeletons.  This one comes in pieces!  While you are on the skeletal system, try to make a spinal cord with a pool noodle or an egg carton spinal cord, like the ones we made.  (I wish I had thought to buy pool noodles on clearance!  I had saved egg cartons, though.). We used blank skeleton worksheets for quizzes.  The older children wrote the names, some of whom needed word list.  Younger children identified the names orally when quizzed.  (My class was eleven children ages 6-11.)

After Science4Us! Review...

Well after slamming Science4Us!, I thought I should list science resources for K-2.
1. Apologia Young Explorers Science is one of the best elementary science series I've ever encountered.  Every one of the texts has loads of hands-on activities.  The journals are loaded with even more resources.
2.  Scratch from MIT teaches kids to code.  I think coding games trumps playing educational games.  Now this is science.
3.  NASA's Kids Club is free, interactive, online program.
4. PBS Kids Squad is also interactive and free, too.
5. Steve Spangler has videos (and experiements, galore!). So, if you want to see a demo before trying the lab. Go here first.
6.  Science is Fun is from Shakashiri, who's been developing materials for young people for decades. Try an experiment.
7.  TOPS Learning Systems have free experiments to try.  These books are all fabulous and require inexpensive equipment.  Lots of value, especially, if you can buy these used.

NSTA Review: Science4Us!

Science4Us! Is an online, interactive science book, a software program with apps available.  The book has elements of a Learning Management System embedded in the program: lessons plans and student assignments which allows the teacher to select class activities for a computer science session.   I tried the program with both an iPad and a Dell laptop and was much more successful accessing programs with the laptop.  The app downloaded to an iPad quickly.  My demo login information went unrecognized; so I couldn’t evaluate the app.  (I might mention that Virginia is misspelled in the student drop-down menu.)   However, the program loads quickly and is easy to navigate on a laptop.   Science4Us! makes adding and editing student assignments intuitive.  This book has loads of videos, games, and activities for both teachers and students.  The graphics and animation feel clumsy and the educational songs are weak.  Smartphones are ubiquitous; kids expect high quality video animation and graphics. Science4Us! doesn’t deliver engaging animation.  The science content is solid; but, will a child watch a video if the narration is irritating and the message is too repetitive?  The Science4Us! website offers free ‘hands-on’ activities, such as slime, or sorting buttons, which are fine.  But, is this program a good value?  Home-school families may join for a monthly fee of $7.95 per student.  I imagine the price for a large school district is much lower.  I don’t think this is a good value, even as a tool for science review or enrichment, especially in light of the broad number of free resources online, such as those from NASA.   Instead, early elementary-aged children (K-2) would profit more from ‘hands-on’ science lessons mixing, using magnets, and measuring, especially if the lessons are prefaced with good non-fiction science books and a lively class discussion.

Home-schoolers: The Young Explorers Series and Homescience Tools vastly outperform this program.

Chemistry and Physical Science TOPS

This lab from TOPS Science dovetails well with Density.  Check it out!

TOPS Learning

If you haven't heard of TOPSScience, try this sample lesson.  All of their lessons use simple equipment and materials, even Electricity and Magnetism.  I've used these two for Physical Science.  Stellar resources!

NSTA Review: Bluespace

http://www.nsta.org/recommends/ViewProduct.aspx?ProductID=23238

NSTA Reviews: Voyager's Greatest Hits

Voyager’s Greatest Hits by Alexandra Siy is clever. Siy organizes her book about the Voyager Planetary Mission into eight  ‘tracks’ or chapters; the software used on Voyager 1 and 2 is on eight track recorders.  Imagine forty year old eight tracks still running?  Who knew eight track software could be updated?  Voyager’s Greatest Hits is chock-full of information about the two Voyagers and their epic journey.  Siy had fun writing this book, which has loads of literary, cultural, and musical references, such as Track Four about Saturn, titled, ‘Lord of the Rings’ (p. 25) or ‘Freebirds’ (p. 57) to describe the two Voyagers leaving our solar system.  Siy weaves some planetary history into the Voyager story.  For example, in Track 3, ‘King Jupiter’, Siy discusses Galileo’s discovery of Jupiter’s moons in 1610 (pp. 15-16) and the discovery of Jupiter’s ‘Great Red Spot’ by Robert Hooke and Giovanni Cassini in 1665 (p.17). Siy’s prose draws the reader into her story.  In Track 7, Cosmic Cruisers, under the heading, ‘Suspended in a Sunbeam’, she writes, “She found Neptune, a blurry blue bead in a sapphire-specked sea.  There was Uranus, smeared like a drip of wet paint.” (p. 49) I haven’t mentioned the images!  Throughout the book are images from two Voyagers, the Hubble telescope, and a variety of observatories and collage images.  Siy includes diagrams, too.  Voyager’s instruments are labeled in an excellent diagram. (p.12). The Glossary (pp 68-69), the lists of additional resources (pp 70-72), and the index (pp 73-74) will help a budding astronomer to learn more about Voyager, especially the website, ‘Where are the Voyagers right now?’ (p.70)  Voyager’s Greatest Hits has been carefully researched and packed with new information about the planets at the far reaches of the solar system. Siy concludes with Track 8, ‘Voyager’s Alien Playlist’, a description of the ‘Golden Records’ (pp59-63), a message from Earth to aliens finding Voyager. Imagine selecting the songs to record!  Librarians should put this title at the top of their STEM  wish lists particularly for upper elementary-aged children.  This book is sure to become a classic.

CD spinners

It's summer and our favorite seven year old, Paul, needs ideas to stay engaged. I've used these spinners for a variety of programs.  I bet you'll have most of the equipment on hand: bottle caps, CDs,  markers, copies of the template, marbles, and glue, preferably a glue gun.  Mocomi has one with detailed instructions. Mathwire and  Heidisongs have more templates here.  Make loads of copies of the templates, save the bottle caps, and scrounge CDs.  Let your kids experiment with complementary colors using crayons, markers, and sharpies.  

Google Classroom

Guess what?  Google Classroom is available to anyone with a gmail account!  Free!  I used Google Classroom a few years ago when I worked part-time for a private school.  I loved how easy it was to assemble assignments, notes, and materials for my students, especially when they were absent.  Home-school moms and Co-ops may want to take a look.  You can post videos, blogs, and PDF files. I like how it organizes the material into classrooms or topics.  Try it!

NSTA Review: Plants in Disguise

Here is the most recent review of Plants in Disguise.

A few more suggestions...

The past two posts promoted animal projects.  What if your family is large and bans animals?  Do you live on a large lot or near a wooded area?  Consider a mammal list or bird list.  Here are some common feeder birds. Our family loves the Identiflyers we bought on eBay.  We also like to build bird houses.  What about making bird feeders?  We made them at a science camp by rubbing Crisco on squares of cardboard and dipping them in bird seed, similar to these feeders.  You might consider creating a bird friendly yard.  Would you rather attract butterfly's and hummingbirds?  This site sells the seeds and explains the plants.  I thinks herbs and plants are great to plant over the winter in a diy hydroponics system.  My sister-in-law set up a similar one in her basement.  My tower is from Vertigro.  Once again, there is plenty of science.  Which nutrients?  Will ordinary fertilizer work?  Which timer?  How often to water?  Does the pH matter?  Seeds, seedlings, or plants?  Fun, right?  One more suggestion: Sea Monkeys, also called brine shrimp.  Carolina Biological has tips to raise brine shrimp.  This blogger has gone into brine shrimp production.  I can hear you asking what to do with the brine shrimp.  This lab is designed for advanced biology.  Take a look.  It has suggestions for observations, counts, identification, etc. The kids are less likely to get attached to sea monkeys than, say, a bunny.

A Few More General Suggestions

We're Catholic.  Many of my home-school friends have large families.  Consequently, both money and time are in short supply.  Chose family friendly school projects.  For example, the S. family raises German Shepherd puppies as income. My suggestion for science projects include  researching and creating pedigree charts and color coat Genetics.  Another friend raises and sells rare breeds of chicks--loads of science, incubation, life cycle, nutrients in feed, pest management, coop design, etc.  You can build an incubator and keep records.  What is the average hatch rate?  According to Vetmed at University of California Davis it can range from 50-75%.  (This site has an article about incubation with tips.) BTW, Walmart sells an incubator under $75, identical to the ones used in elementary schools.  Another home-school family raised Crested geckos.  A teacher friend raised Poison Dart frogs in large aquariums.  (They aren't poisonous when raised domestically, owing to their diet.). They are pricy!  Bunnies are much easier and less expensive to buy or adopt.  Another good project is to estimate the cost to maintain and breed rabbits.  Which breed?  Do you plan to raise pets or rabbits for meat?  Here are sample calculations.  How many rabbits?  What is the cost of feed?  Is there a farm supply nearby where the feed is cheaper?  Do rabbits need supplements?  Will alfalfa or other grains provide needed nutrients?  How much is a hutch?  What price should you set to make a profit? Do you know a farmer willing to take the rabbits if the project proves too costly or too much trouble?  See what I mean about animal projects?  I love the fact they provide loads of science, consumer math, and basics economic lessons.

Generic Science Suggestions...

It's the time of year when I review home-school portfolios.  Generally, I review the curriculum and work samples in order to write a letter for the local school board.  I like to make a list of suggestions. One of the children raised Crested geckos as a science project.  Another home-school family is raising German Shepherd puppies as a business, along with rabbits and Cavalier Spaniels.  I love animals as a source for science lessons based on a child's or family's interest or income.  For example, the family raising German Shepherd puppies has researched those costs and pitfalls outlined here.  Many families participate in 4H and compete at the local fair.  Think how motivated your child will be to learn as much as possible about Bunnies or Chicks when a prize is at stake.  Our family likes birds; we have two Identiflyers and several bird cards.  (We have two because it's hard to share one with friends.  Both were purchased 'used' from eBay.) Cardinals will respond to the bird sing played by the Identiflyer.  Cornell Bird Sleuth is the place for more bird information.

Summer is the time to garden.  I'm starting plants for my hydroponics tower--currently failing.  I'm working with a local school, which has received a grant to build a courtyard garden.  We're in the planning phase before building raised beds and planting this fall.  Here are a few pix from previous projects.

Apologia Chemistry: Christmas Labs

I'm organizing materials, prepping labs, and planning for fall.  Naturally, I ran across Christmas Chemistry labs.  (I'm in the habit of ordering as many of the chemicals as possible early.)  These are all great!  Ornament Making is really Intaglio Art Etching.  Fun!  Dangerous, but fun!  Ornament Making with these instructions are much safer, but still pricey.  Crystal Ornaments and directions from Martha Stewart are both safe and relatively inexpensive.

Apologia Chemistry Labs

Paper chromatography
https://www.flinnsci.com/globalassets/flinn-scientific/all-free-pdfs/dc11220.pdf
Reaction in a Bag or Ziploc Chem more complete
Flame test
Discrepant events for Chem
Paper chromatography with Rf
White Powder Lab
Separation of a Mixture
Graduated Cylinder Challenge (Density)
Calibrate pipette with water
Micro scale Lab Equipment
Ionic Compounds Lab
Hydrate Lab (Percent Composition)
Beanium
The Mole Lab
DOE Virginia Mole Labs

Apologia Chemistry: Get Ready

I am getting ready for Chemistry in the fall.  This summer, the kids are going to create Element Cards--those based on this research article from the Journal of Chem Ed I ran across years ago.  (FYI, there's an older Blog Post with a student, Akshita, demonstrating how to make the cards.  When you look at the research articule, scroll down to the instructions to see sample cards.  (The elements are in Spanish because the authors were from Spain.  The cards take an eternity to complete; the kids have an easy time learning the periodic table.  Really.  One class even insisted on playing the card game.  That's completely optional.

NSTA Book Review

http://www.nsta.org/recommends/ViewProduct.aspx?ProductID=23468

Open Court for Spelling: Ayre's List

OK.  You have found great basal readers and now you'd like some spelling lists.  How about the 1957 Ayre's list?  Scroll down the list to see which words pertain to different grades.  Here's the original list. 

Open Court Reading: Old School Phonics

Time to hype Open Court again, especially these Phonic Cue Cards.  (Click on the links for a full size color copy. ) Wigowsky also has posted the original phonics program and this teacher's guide, part of an appendix.  You can read more about Open Court in Let's Kill Dick and Jane and  Reading By Ear. In fact this book and the article are almost required reading if you are interested in using Open Court resources.  The Headway Series book program can be located through Amazon, Thrift, Abe, or eBay.  In this testimonial letter are titles and table of contents for some of the older Open Court book series.  Incidentally, these series were written for elementary children up to grade six.

A copy of the Blue book, Gold book , and Gold Book stories  can be downloaded, along with these guides. 


I found a good list of titles  in The Phonetic Reader forum.

First Star

The Blue-Pillowed SKy

A Shiny Golden Path

Rainbow Bridge

Slide Down the Sky

From Sea to Shining Sea

Time for Dreams

Across the World

Over the Moon

Sound of the Sea

Promises to Keep

The Well-Trained Mind Forum has titles form the Reading is Fun Series and the RISE program.

Browse through a copy!