Science Extras
Although our unit focuses on the area of physics, there are so many other interesting topics that we do not cover in fourth grade. Below are some great websites that cover areas of science and provide more information about the exciting opportunities for young people in the field of science. Take a look!
Have you always wanted to visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History but can’t travel to get there? No problem! This site offers a virtual fieldtrip to the museum. Navigate three floors of exhibits using arrows to help you travel to the display you wish to visit next. A truly exceptional site not to be missed!
Here you will find most all space related information by topic and grade level. “Join NASA’s “Kid’s Club” to play games, puzzles, or obtain printables with which to play and color! Interested in a career at NASA? Learn about the workshops available to kids in grade K-8, lectures and webcasts, or even competitions to prepare for such an exciting career!
Love engineering? This website will provide you the latest and greatest in the field of engineering. This site provides information by grade level and is also organized by the field of engineering in which you are interested. From aerospace engineering to industrial manufacturing engineering, this site has it all!
The website below provides an opportunity to help create and play video games! This program was inspired by the Educate to Innovate Campaign to promote a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education. The National STEM Video Game Challenge is a multi-year competition whose goal is to motivate interest in STEM learning among America’s youth by tapping into students’ natural passion for playing and making video games. Although it is only open to kids beginning in fifth grade, this is your chance to read all about it and get a jump-start on your ideas for next year!!
Here are eight interactive math and science tools and simulations for students in grades 6-12. (That doesn’t mean they are too tricky for you – these sites are very cool and, I encourage everyone to try them out!) Bonus for parents: all simulations and materials linked here meet the new National Science Education Standards and National Math Education Standards.
The site “Engineer Girl” is tailored more toward the ladies. This site provides amazing and inspiring stories about women engineers, why girls should become engineers, and offers featured interviews with females in the engineering world. Not sure what an engineer does? No problem! There is a link entitled “Try on a Career” which provides information on the different types of engineering fields to match all different interests and talents. It even gives the type of education necessary for the job and starting salary! Girls, this is one site you should check out for sure!
Explore chemistry with this website, “Adventures in Chemistry”. It will capture your interest and imagination through interactive activities that are divided into four sections: Experiments, Secret Science of Stuff, Games, and Science ABCs. Begin exploring!