Science Center Overview
Science Center Overview
Description
The science center provides opportunities for students to collaborate, engage in learning, and build language skills through conversations and exploration. Children have the opportunity to build math, science, and problem solving skills through hands-on experiences and investigations.
Purpose
- ask and answer questions about scientific problems
- develop and use models
- plan and carry out investigations
- use mathematical reasoning
- evaluate patterns and evidence
- hand-eye coordination
- fine motor control through the use of scientific tools
- develop persistence and self-control
- use observation and exploration to make discoveries
Suggested Materials
- magnifying glasses and color lenses
- tweezers, eye droppers
- timers
- goggles, lab coats
- binoculars, measuring tools, scales, and thermometers
- collections (rocks, shells, leaves, insects, etc)
- discovery tubes
- mirrors
- magnets
- life cycle materials (pictures or props)
- simple machines (pulleys, gears, wheels)
- items from nature (feathers, soil, seeds, pine cones, rocks, etc.)- seal in plastic bags or clear CD cases if needed
- maps and globes
- content related science materials (dinosaurs, seasonal materials, animal bones, X-rays, etc.)
- writing materials (pencils, crayons, paper, clipboards)
- vocabulary word cards or word wall
- books and magazines related to scientific topics
Questioning Examples
These guiding questions can be used to assist the teacher, instructional assistant, or parent volunteers in supporting children's development and learning during play.
- How are these things alike? How are they different?
- How could you sort the objects?
- What do you think the (object such as a bone) is from? What is it used for?
- Where could you find (object such as a shell)?
- How would you describe this object?
Considerations
Please note materials should be rotated throughout the year as students' interests and themes change. At the beginning of the school year it is important to start with minimal materials to teach proper use and cleanup. This center should allow for enough space for at least a few students to engage in scientific discoveries both independently or cooperatively. The sensory table may be integrated into the science center or may be a separate stand alone center.