United States

Remembering and honoring

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On the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day of the eleventh month – World War I came to an end.  This day is celebrated today as Veteran’s day in the United States.  A Monday in November is set aside as a federal holiday to allow communities to honor those who have served and those who serve.

As homeschool families, this day provides an opportunity to integrate our various curriculum activities with what is happening in the community.  There is an opportunity to explore history, and conduct interviews with individuals who witnessed events first hand.  There is an opportunity to participate in community activities such as parades, concerts, flag raising and lowering ceremonies, and visiting cemeteries.

While we think primarily of history, writing, poetry, and literature for activities related to Veteran’s day – there are some science related topics that can be incorporated as well.

Weather influences history – a wind sock (you can find several craft ideas for making a wind sock) may be an excellent way to show a bit of patriotism as well as incorporating how weather may impact world events.

Technology – while it may have been developed for defense – there are a number of peace time applications of various technologies.  Infrared detection is a great example.  The infrared cameras can see flaws in metals, and help detect with early detection of equipment failures.  Medicine and medical treatments have been influenced by events on the battlefield.  Even how goods are transported to your local big box store – is the result of solving a problem during the Berlin Airlift.

Science can be reflected in a number of ways as you celebrate this holiday.  You can see it right in front of you in the form of medical devices, architecture, and the overall health of some of those participating in the parade.  Just take a quick second to recognize it.

But, don’t forget to thank that veteran for his/her service.  It is their dedication to our values that allow us to have the freedoms we hold dear.

 

Fun Activities for November

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Now that Halloween has past and we are beginning to look toward the holiday season – there are a number of activities that can be integrated into any curriculum.  In the northern hemisphere – fall colors are in full display.  In North America – Canada and the US – Thanksgiving is just around the corner. And, the summer season is starting in the southern hemisphere.

So here are some ideas for some fun science!

Natural dyes are great this time of year – as fruits, berries and spices are abound.  The Learning Channel has a “how stuff works” activity on natural dyes. There is an integrated science-art lesson plan from the University of Minnesota.   And, there is a quick article from Gardening Know How, which will help you to integrate science into everyday life.

While food science is fun any time of year – in the US and Canada – November is a feasting month.  Chemistry and physics abound in the kitchen – look for anything written by Shirley Corriher (Cookwise and Bakewise) – she has wonderful descriptions of what is happening during the cooking and baking.  Penn State has a list of several food science activities.  The American Chemical Society has an activity page for food as well.

So have fun in November – doing great science while playing in the kitchen.

Don’t forget to stay safe while conducting any hands-on activities with children.  These activities should be conducted under the supervision of an adult and should be reviewed prior to conducting them.  For more safety tips for hands-on activities.  Return to http://www.sophicpursuits.com/Educational-Materials.html.