47 Easy To Do Classic Science Experiments

Here is a highly motivating book for grade-school students that will introduce them to many of the world's most popular (and historically significant) scientific experiments. They'll learn about gravity simply by following the acrobatic antics of an ordinary coin. By trying to blow an egg out of a cup, they'll discover the principles of air pressure. Dancing soap bubbles will help them understand the effects of static electricity, and by dropping quarters into a full glass of water without causing it to overflow, they'll study the effects of surface tension. These and over 40 other experiments have been carefully selected by noted educators Eugene and Asterie Baker Provenzo to familiarize children with classic science experiments involving optics, inertia, air pressure, magnetism, sound, topology, light, density, vibration, prisms, elasticity, gases, vacuum, perspective, geometry, centrifugal force, buoyancy, color, and much more. Some experiments, such as the optical "Newton's Rings" are hundreds of years old. Still others, like the straw lever test, are based on Greek experiments with leverage and the center of gravity — first carried out thousands of years ago. Easy-to-follow instructions and illustrations show youngsters how to perform each experiment, most of which are prefaced with historical background, a list of necessary materials and an explanation of key terms. Almost all experiments can be carried out with common household items (tissue paper, scissors, tapes, rubber balloons, pens, pencils, etc.) and can be worked at home or in the classroom to demonstrate specific scientific principles or to supplement a science-curriculum unit. Sources for all historical illustrations given in the text are listed at the end of the book.

Experiments to do at home include inquiries into the cold light of fireflies, the speed of ants, magnetic poles, lung capacity, and many other things. Includes guidelines for performing accurate research.

Dozens of riddles and puzzles working with air pressure, liquids, light, motion, more.

In her 30 years as an educator, Debbie Diller has closely examined classroom practice, asking Why? What's the purpose? Watching primary students work successfully at literacy work stations, she wondered with teachers, Why don't we have upper-grade students doing this? Could we kick it up a notch? In her new book, Debbie shows teachers of grades three-to-six how to structure their classrooms so that all students can be successful doing meaningful independent work using literacy work stations. Practice with Purpose offers guidance on establishing routines for independent reading and response writing, as well as step-by-step instructions on how to set up and manage a variety of hands-on literacy work stations appropriate for intermediate students. Each chapter includes: how to introduce the station;innovative ways to use materials;what to model to guarantee independence;how to troubleshoot; assessment and accountability ideas; how the station supports student achievement on state tests; reflection questions for professional development. The extensive appendix includes time-saving tools such as management board icons, graphic organizers, task cards, and recommended Web sites and children's literature.

Acclaimed book discusses how to keep a child's curiosity alive. Topics include importance of questions and appropriate climates for learning, need for instructive play and free exploration, use of outdoors as a laboratory, more. "A must for parents, teachers, circulating libraries and young minds on the threshold." — Publishers' Weekly.

Describes the process of metamorphosis, the change from larva to adult, in such animals as frogs, butterflies, and honeybees.

"First published in 2004, is an unabridged, newly reset republication of the edition published by Little, Brown and Company, Boston, in 1920"--T.p. verso.

Fascinating profiles of 29 of the world's most remarkable species of animal and plant life. Simple enough for young readers, this book abounds with intriguing information that will also captivate adults. Included are astonishing facts and illustrations of the world's fastest runner, the best jumper, and other natural wonders. 50 illustrations.