Many students enter my classroom with misconceptions about fossils. Some think that they are actual bones, while others believe that the original organic material somehow magically turns into stone. As an introduction to the unit about fossil and sedimentary rock formation, I always like to use this quick activity to make sure my students have… Continue reading What’s in the Lab? Fossil Formation
I must admit, being a science teacher is one of the coolest jobs in the world. It’s not always easy, but teaching students to question and explore their world is the most fulfilling work I could ever imagine doing. I love getting messy with the kids on lab days and watching how excited they get… Continue reading Pasta Rocks! A Sedimentary Rock Formation Lab.
I originally created this lab to spice up my mixtures and solutions unit a few years ago. It has evolved into what I HOPE is a thoughtful activity that incorporates mixtures, solutions, density, magnetism, environmental factors, conservation, team building and budgeting skills. I like this lab because it is versatile enough to be used in… Continue reading What’s in the Lab? Reversing Water Pollution
Earth science is one of my favorite units. (Mainly because most of the labs are edible.) No, in all seriousness, it is fascinating to see how many light bulb moments my students have when we really delve into the inner workings of our planet. Students have a hard time understanding slow changes because it isn't… Continue reading What’s in the Lab? Graham Cracker Plate Tectonics
I remember my first year in science, lab day was always the most stressful part of my week. I felt like I was scrambling for ideas, and I had no idea what to do half the time. Luckily, I am older and wiser. These days I can honestly sit back (well, not too far back)… Continue reading What’s in the Lab? Cookie Mining
Sockmonkey Science 