The study of science is characterized by attending classes of theory and then putting it to the test in a laboratory experiment. With parents who teach homeschool science is the lack of a formal laboratory in the home a limiting factor? While some may think so, it need not necessarily be so. There are many ways to conduct experiments and the lack of a laboratory need not be a limitation for a home school student if the parent is able to harness the power of available resources.
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Use what you have readily available at hand
Almost every topic that is covered in elementary school science is easily explained using stuff around the house. If you are talking about the nature of matter and need to explain solids, liquids and gases, just take them into the kitchen. Use water to set as ice for solid state, it is already in bottles as liquid state, then boil some on the hob to form water vapor to show them the gaseous state.
Don’t stay indoors
If you need to talk about living and non living things, use the family pet, the garden and other household appliances as examples. Let them understand the concept as best as possible. To teach them more about plant life help them plan their own garden. Each part of the plant will become a biology lesson on its own. If its animals you want to talk about see that they follow the family dog around. You can discuss similarities and differences with humans as well.
Keep a box with stuff that can be used for experiments
If you want them to learn about the properties of magnetism just give them a set of differently shaped magnets. A horseshoe shape, a rectangle, a circle, and whatever else they like. Now let them play with the magnets as you explain polarity and attraction. You can also get a few light weight iron things that they can use with the magnets.
So if you give it some thought and a little preparation it can be a great experience teaching homeschool science even in the absence of a formal laboratory. All you need to do is use your imagination and all the junk that you have at home.
Article Inspiration: About Homeschooling
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