SMART START students were introduced to various branches of science during our summer enrichment program. Our hands-on, interactive, play based approach to STEM education enables young learners to discover and enhance knowledge through exciting and engaging activities.
Learn more about our Summer Science Week below!
🧲FUN WITH FORCES🧲
(PHYSICS)
Magnets are an excellent tool to teach about the concept of invisible forces and energy. Friends were fascinated as their magnetic materials magically pulled together. Others were puzzled when their magnets resisted attachment. We discussed how each magnet has electric charges that either attract or repel when placed close. Afterwards, all investigated what other classroom items were magnetic.
🧪EXPERIMENT EXPLORATION🧪
(CHEMISTRY)
Classmates put on their white coats, safety goggles and convened in their “lab” to concoct and create. Each chemist was given a container filled with a powdery substance and instruments such as test tubes, beakers and eye droppers. All were amazed as the state of their mixture was altered as they added in new materials. Color, texture, smell and temperature were among the changes observed. At the end of the experiment, everyone had a unique matter to use for sensory enjoyment.
🧠ALL ABOUT THE HUMAN BODY🧠
(ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY)
SMART START scientists were eager to learn all that is happening inside them. Stickers were used to label posters representing organs and their functions. In addition, a storytime and other related items were incorporated to promote comprehension. All were most intrigued by the appearance and role of the brain, heart and lungs and accurately used terminology in conversations, “I’m going to remember with my brain”, “No running, my lungs are tired”, “My heart beats fast” etc.
🦖DINOSAUR DAY🦖
(PALEONTOLOGY)
Preschool paleontologists put on their pith helmets and aprons for the highly anticipated dinosaur dig. Peers were provided with an egg, picks, chisels and brushes to unearth their own prehistoric figurine. Species discovered were pterodactyl, ankylosaurus, apatosaurus, tyrannosaurus, triceratops and more! After a themed storytime, the outdoor classroom was searched for dinosaur eggs (water balloons!).
Here is a link to the Dig A Dozen Dino Egg Kit (24% off on Amazon!).
🔬RESEARCH & RECORD🔬
(MICROSCOPY)
Throughout the week, the class collected small objects to observe under a microscope. The properties of leaves, crumbs, string, feathers and more were placed on slides, inspected and documented. It was surprising how many tiny insects were only made visible with the use of technology. This study encouraged pupils to question and examine the world around them and to make informed conclusions.
Here is a link to Educational Insights Science Microscope (50% off on Amazon!)
🪐SPACE STUDIES🪐
(ASTRONOMY)
Aspiring astronauts arrived in another galaxy for an outer space inspired day. Activities included pin the spaceship on a planet, astro alphabet, star stories and moon memory match. However, the highlight of then event was the solar splash. All received an inflated planet to hold and circled around a sprinkler. This enactment of how planets orbit the sun was both fun, educational and refreshing. It was mentioned multiple times that all are grateful to the sun for these hot, summer days!
🎲GAMES GALORE🎲
(LEARNING THROUGH PLAY)
Each unit was accompanied with a collaborative game component. Learning through play is essential for children to express their thoughts and understanding on subject matter while also challenging cognitive abilities, fine motor skills, cooperation and more. Dinosaur Escape, Operation and Melissa & Doug Human Body Magnets are class favorites (products linked above).
We hope you enjoyed reading about SMART START’S Summer Science Week!
🔍SMART START🔎
