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elementary science

Famous Stem Figures And Easy Stem Activities At Home

March 5, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have some fun STEM activities at home. And I have a free notable figures in stem printable.

The 5 notable figures I have today are Albert Einstein, Jane Goodall, Nikola Tesla, Grace Hopper and Katherine Johnson.

Each of these famous STEM people has made incredible contributions to the world.

Kids should explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and math through fun experiments, building projects, coding, and more.

Famous Stem Figures And Easy Stem Activities At Home

Too, learning about STEM is more than a subject, it’s a way to teach kids how to think critically.

Besides, we’re teaching kids about life skills. STEM helps a child to cultivate patience and to learn how to not give up when a solution to a problem is not obvious.

Also, what I have learned in teaching STEM is that it is about more than technology. It is a way for children to foster their creativity skills.

For example, many solutions are out of the box. STEM activities at home create an environment where a child is not rushed and can try varied approaches to problem solving.

And in their future, careers and jobs will focus on STEM.

Let’s keep it fun though.

BOOKS ABOUT FAMOUS SCIENTIST FOR KIDS

First, look at some of these notable stem figures and famous scientist.

8 Notable STEM Figures

Add some of these books to your reading day about science and famous inventions.

Image for Michael Faraday: Father of Electronics

Michael Faraday: Father of Electronics

Charles Ludwig retells Michael Faraday’s remarkable life story in fictionalized form. Here is the father of the electric motor, the dynamo, the transformer, the generator. Few persons are aware of the brilliant man’s deep Christian convictions and his determination to live by the Sermon on the Mount. For ages 12 to 15.

Image for Albert Einstein and the Theory of Relativity

Albert Einstein and the Theory of Relativity

Einstein's astonishing theory of relativity transformed every aspect of physics-from the study of atoms to the study of stars. Relativity is described here in simple, accurate language that young readers can comprehend.

Image for Nikola Tesla, Electrical Genius

Nikola Tesla, Electrical Genius

Electrical engineer and inventor Nikola Tesla (1856–1943) was indeed an electrical genius. In language suitable for both young and old, author Arthur J. Beckhard describes all aspects of Tesla’s personal and professional life, including Tesla’s childhood and his education at primary school, at the Higher Real Gymnasium, and at the Polytechnic Institute; his years working for the telegraphic engineering department of Austria, then as an engineer in Paris, and then as an employee of Thomas Edison in America; his substitution of alternating current for direct current—a simpler and more economical method of converting electrical into mechanical energy; his rotary magnetic field, which was used in transmitting the power of Niagara Falls to nearby cities; his independent research at his own electrical laboratories in New Your City; and much more. Originally published in 1959 as part of Messner Publications' "Men of Science" series

Image for Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition

Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition

Before John Glenn orbited the earth, or Neil Armstrong walked on the moon, a group of dedicated female mathematicians known as “human computers” used pencils, slide rules, and adding machines to calculate the numbers that would launch rockets, and astronauts, into space.

This book brings to life the stories of Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden, who lived through the Civil Rights era, the Space Race, the Cold War, and the movement for gender equality, and whose work forever changed the face of NASA and the
country.

Image for Reaching for the Moon: The Autobiography of NASA Mathematician Katherine Johnson

Reaching for the Moon: The Autobiography of NASA Mathematician Katherine Johnson

As a young girl, Katherine Johnson showed an exceptional aptitude for math. In school she quickly skipped ahead several grades and was soon studying complex equations with the support of a professor who saw great promise in her. But ability and opportunity did not always go hand in hand. As an African American and a girl growing up in an era of brutal racism and sexism, Katherine faced daily challenges. Still, she lived her life with her father’s words in mind: “You are no better than anyone else, and nobody else is better than you.”

Image for Grace Hopper: The Woman Behind Computer Programming (Little Inventor)

Grace Hopper: The Woman Behind Computer Programming (Little Inventor)

Computers touch our lives everyday, in countless ways, but how do they know what to do? How do we communicate with them and they with each other? Language! Grace Hopper was a pioneer in computer programming, a woman whose scientific research led to computer-language tools and technology still in use today. Her story is filled with trial and error, and readers can follow the journey step by step.

Image for Who Is Jane Goodall? (Who Was?)

Who Is Jane Goodall? (Who Was?)

Jane Goodall, born in London, England, always loved animals and wanted to study them in their natural habitats. So at age twenty-six, off she went to Africa! Goodall's up-close observations of chimpanzees changed what we know about them and paved the way for many female scientists who came after her. Now her story comes to life in this biography with black-and-white illustrations throughout.

Image for Great Inventors and their Inventions

Great Inventors and their Inventions

Can you imagine how different life would be without the printing press? It's unlikely you'd ever have held a book. And your clothes would look very different without the invention of spinning and sewing machines. Without boats, trains, and planes, even our diets would be changed.Read about the fascinating creators of these inventions and the struggles they faced. Some got rich, some fought for every penny, but they all changed the way we live our lives today. Inventors profiled in this collection include James Watt (the steam engine), Elias Howe (the sewing machine), Cyrus McCormick (the reaper), John Gutenberg (the printing press), Alexander Graham Bell (the telephone) as well as many more.This reprinting is complete and unabridged featuring all the original illustrations and reformatted text for easier reading.

Then, look at these stem activities at home.

Add them to your science day.

STEM ACTIVITIES AT HOME

  • Hands-on Ancient Mesopotamia: Easy STEM Irrigation Activity
  • 100 Brilliant STEM Activities Using Everyday Items
  • STEM and Geography: How to Build an Ancient Viking Ship
  • STEM: Build a Da Vinci Parachute Activity
  • Electricity STEM: Lighting Up a Shoebox Tiny House
  • National STEM Day – Popsicle Sticks for Creative DIY STEM Projects
  • Kids Fun Pumpkin Catapult STEM Challenge for Medieval Unit Study
  • 11 Awesome Beach Theme STEM Activities | Quick Sunscreen Painting Experiment
  • How to Build a LEGO Swiss Family Robinson STEM Challenge Treehouse
  • How to Spark Learning with a Candy Cane Maze STEM Activity
  • 8 The Water Princess STEM Activity Ideas and African Clay Pot Craft
  • How to Make a Popsicle Stick Stem Dogsled | Balto Unit Study
  • Fun Candy Corn Stem Activity Which Liquid Dissolves Candy Corn Faster
  • 5 Easy Bat Stem Activities and Create a STEM Bat Habitat
  • How Do Sharks Float STEM Activity Free Shark Unit Study & Notebooking Pages
  • 15 Star Wars STEM Activities Ideas | Fun Flashlight Science and DIY Lightsaber
  • Dive Into STEM Learning With An Exciting Jello Earthquake Experiment

Next, look at a few facts about these 5 notable STEM figures which you can use alongside the free printables.

FACTS ABOUT STEM FIGURES & ABOUT THE FREE PRINTABLE

There is 1 page per famous STEM figure. Each page has facts along with a few activities or two.

Add these pages to your notebooking pages or lapbook.

Look at my post How to Turn Boring Worksheets into Fun Minibooks – From Boring to Interactive to fold them into minibooks.

The five scientist this freebie is focused on are: Albert Einstein, Jane Goodall, Nikola Tesla, Grace Hopper and Katherine Johnson.

And here are a few facts about each one.

ALBERT EINSTEIN FEW FACTS

  • He is known for the Theory of Relativity.
  • The famous equation E = mc², helped us understand the relationship between energy and matter.

JANE GOODALL FEW FACTS

  • She is known for being an Primatologist, Ethologist, and Anthropologist.
  • She was the first to study chimpanzees in the wild.

NIKOLA TESLA FEW FACTS

  • He was known for being a pioneering inventor, electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, and physicist.
  • Tesla invented the first remote control in 1898.
Famous Stem Figures And Easy Stem Activities At Home

GRACE HOPPER FEW FACTS

  • Grace Hopper was one of the first people to work on computers.
  • Grace Hopper created the first compiler. It is a tool that translates computer programming code into a language that computers can understand.

KATHERINE JOHNSON FEW FACTS

  • Katherine Johnson was an African American woman mathematician who worked for NASA.
  • She helped send John Glenn into orbit.

HOW TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE NOTABLE FIGURES IN STEM PRINTABLE

Now, how to grab the free printable. It’s a subscriber freebie.

When you sign up to follow me, you get access to this freebie.

1) Sign up on my email list to follow me and get this freebie and many others.
 2) Grab the printable.
3) Last, look for my emails in your inbox as a follower. Glad to have you following me!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Science Tagged With: Albert Einstein, elementary science, Grace Hopper, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, high school science, homeschool, homeschoolscience, Jane Goodall, Katherine Johnson, Nikola Tesla, science, STEM

4 Weeks Free Homeschool Frog Unit Study & Best Hands-On Ideas

March 1, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a free 4 weeks homeschool frog unit study for multiple ages. Also, look at my page Toads – Amphibians for a free Loads of Toads and Frogs lapbook and unit study and Best Homeschool Unit Studies for more unit studies.

Frogs are amphibians, which means they can live both in water and on land.

Besides loving to be in ponds, they have sticky tongues and have the ability to hop high.

4 Weeks Free Homeschool Frog Unit Study & Best Hands-On Ideas

They make for a fascinating hands-on unit study for multiple ages especially if you do this in the spring.

In spring, your kids can find an abundance of frogspawn in ditches the edges of a pond and very slow moving streams.

The change of a tadpole and how they transform and grow into a frog is incredible to watch for all but especially kids.

BOOKS ABOUT FROGS FOR KIDS

First, add some of these books to your reading list.

11 Frog & Toad Unit Study Resources

Add a book or two or some fun hands-on resources to your unit study.

Image for The Frog (Animal Lives)

The Frog (Animal Lives)

Superbly detailed drawings capture the elusive frog in its watery realm, as it captures its prey with a sticky tongue, feeds its young, and leaps from place to place to escape from predators.

Image for Frogs and toads;

Frogs and toads;

Frogs and toads;

Image for Tale of a tadpole

Tale of a tadpole

The natural world doesn't work the way fairy tales do, but it still has its fair share of enchantments. With text and pictures that are both scientifically accurate and totally true to the comedies of family life, this is a happily-ever-after tale of unexpected transformations

Image for A Toad for Tuesday 50th Anniversary Edition

A Toad for Tuesday 50th Anniversary Edition

Just in time for its 50th anniversary, this beloved classic tale of adventure, compassion, and friendship has been remade for a new generation of young readers, including text revisions and fully colorized original illustration on the cover. A favorite chapter book is back, for read aloud or read alone.

While on a journey to visit his aunt, Warton the Toad is captured by a surly owl who announces plans to eat Warton for his birthday dinner on the upcoming Tuesday. As he awaits his fate, Warton works gamely to make his remaining days as pleasant as possible while he also seeks some way to escape and tries to convince the owl to let him go.

Naturally, Warton and Owl talk. But what the pair don't realize is how quickly even the oddest of friendships may form.

Image for Rainforest Frogs

Rainforest Frogs

Rainforest Frogs Haiku by Caley Vickerman Illustrated by Mark Lerer Foreword by Franco Andreone Designed and Edited by Susan Newman Frogs Are Green, Inc is proud to announce… Rainforest Frogs Order your copy now! Free shipping in the USA if you order directly from us! $11.95 | 52 pages softcover | Full color Rainforest Frogs profiles ten exotic and endangered amphibian species. Table of Contents Foreword by Franco Andreone Blue Poison Dart frog Amazon Milk frog Yellow-Banded Poison Dart frog Northern Glass frog Tiger’s Tree frog Golden Mantella Red-Eyed Tree frog Flat-Head Bromeliad Tree frog Tiger-Leg Monkey Tree frog Rabbs Fringe-Limbed Tree frog (Toughie)

Image for Frog (Life Cycle of a . . .)

Frog (Life Cycle of a . . .)

Do tadpoles have legs? Why do frogs live in water? How do frogs catch food? Explaining concepts through stunning photographs and simple text, 'Life Cycle of a Frog' takes an in-depth look at this familiar but fascinating animal.

Image for Climbing Tree Frogs (Pull Ahead Books)

Climbing Tree Frogs (Pull Ahead Books)

Introduces the physical characteristics, behavior, and habitats of North American tree frogs

Image for Frogs

Frogs

How far can frogs jump? Why do their eggs look slimy? Answer these questions and many more in this illustrated introduction to amphibians, and learn about the unique role frogs play in the environment. With her signature bright, well-labeled diagrams and simple text, Gail Gibbons introduces the habitat and life cycles of frogs, and gives a brief overview of common frog behaviors. Important vocabulary is introduced, defined, and reinforced with kid-friendly language and clear illustrations—plus a page of intriguing frog trivia. 

Image for Frog & Toad The Complete Collection

Frog & Toad The Complete Collection

This collection brings together all of Arnold Lobel’s engaging, warm and funny stories about Frog and Toad, and features a special foreword by Julia Donaldson. A collectable classic treasury that every child should read and own. Julia Donaldson says “I hugely admire and envy Arnold Lobel; he is my hero”. Once upon a time there were two good friends, a frog and a toad… From writing letters to going swimming, telling stories to finding lost buttons, Frog and Toad are always there for each other – just as best friends should be.

Image for Frog Growth Cycle

Frog Growth Cycle

This Forg life cycle set is a fun for children with an interest in insects and nature explore. And also it is a great teaching and learning tool for homeschoolers and preschoolers teaching.

Image for Anatomy Lab Soft Cover Frog Dissection Guide Book

Anatomy Lab Soft Cover Frog Dissection Guide Book

Fully Illustrated Guide: Each study guide is fully illustrated and conveys the complete dissection through illustration.

Visualize the Steps: the dissection guides depict anatomically correct step-by-step procedural illustrations helping the student visualize key organs and anatomy aiding in the overall dissection process.

Then look at some of these post ideas and activities.

First, look at history and geography ideas.

HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY FROG UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 1

Start with the Frog and Prince story from Brothers Grimm. It is a Germany fairy tale.

Next, in Ancient Egypt frogs were a symbol of life. For example, during the rainy season the Nile River would be full of frogs. So they were viewed as growth and life.

And in Ancient China, frogs were also symbols of good fortune and were believed to be protectors of the land.

Look at more ideas.

  • Facts About Japan | How To Make Kids Easy Origami Fish
  • Discuss where frogs live (wetlands, ponds, marshes) and the special features that help frogs survive in these environments. Look at my Pond Unit Study and Lapbook.
  • How to Make A Fun Origami Frog Amazon Rainforest Craft
  • Discuss where different species of frogs live around the world (tropical rainforests, temperate ponds, deserts, etc.). Look at my Free Amazon Rainforest Unit Study and Lapbook.

NATURE & SCIENCE FROG UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 2

Additionally, look at the nature and science themed frog ideas.

  • Free Printable Colorful Frog Diorama: Cool Frog Life Cycle Facts
  • Discuss frog behaviors, focusing on how they communicate (croaking) and hunting for food.
  • Fun DIY Felt Frog Dissection With Frog Insides Labeled Mess Free (Free Printables)
  • Study what frog insects.
  • Free Toad and Frog Lapbook and Fun Homeschool Unit Study Ideas
  • Introduce the life cycle of frogs.
  • Observe tadpoles growing into frogs.
  • Study frog Legs and jumping ability.
  • Do a frog camouflage activity. Look at my post 8 Animal Camouflage Activities and Resources & Fun Camouflage Art.

MATH & LANGUAGE ARTS FROG UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 3

  • Frog Worksheets For Preschoolers (Free Printables)
  • Frog Hop Number Line Math Game Educational Activity for Kids
  • Adorable Frog Hug Bookmark Fun Paper Craft for Kids
  • Measure the water in a pond, check for depths and do water tests.
  • 8 Engaging Pond Books for Preschoolers Who Love Pond Animals
  • Creating Fun Red Eyed Tree Frog Manipulatives for Rain Forest Math
  • Frog Bookmarks to Color for DIY Reading Fun (Free)
  • F is for Frog Craft for Preschoolers
  • Read Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel.
  • Jumpstart Learning with the Free Alphabet Frog Lily Pad Game

ARTS & CRAFTS FROG UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 4

  • How To Make A Frog Craft Toilet Paper Roll
  • Frog Headband Printable For Kids [Free Template]
  • DIY Frog on a Lily Pad Pond Paper Plate Craft
  • Fun Paper Plate Frog Craft With Moving Eyes
  • How to Paint a Frog Rock Tutorial for Beginners
  • Chocolate Frogs
  • Cute Colorful Toilet Paper Roll Rainforest Frogs for a Rainforest Frog Craft
  • Frog Paper Bag Puppet Craft [Free Template]
  • Life Cycle of a Frog Sensory Bin – with blue oobleck!
  • Squeeze ‘n’ Croak Frog Craft
  • Potato Print Frog Cards
4 Weeks Free Homeschool Frog Unit Study & Best Hands-On Ideas

MORE BEST HOMESCHOOL UNIT STUDIES

  • Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests
  • Fascinating and Fun Honey Bees Unit Study and Lapbook for Kids
  • Arctic and Inuit Unit Study. Free Lapbook – Hands-On Ideas
  • Popcorn Science Mini Unit Study Which Brand Pops the Best
  • Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop
  • About Astronomy and Space Science Fun Quick Unit Study
  • Winter Season Unit Study Free Lapbook & Hands-On Ideas
  • Famous and Historic Trees Fun Nature and History Homeschool Unit Study
  • Free Horse Unit Study for Your Horse Loving Kids
  • John Muir Spring Unit Study (and Hands-on Geography Ideas)
  • 4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas
  • Make Science Exciting: Free Human Body Homeschool Unit Study
  • Over And Under The Snow Activities For a Free Literature Unit Study
  • 4 Weeks Free Plant Unit Study And Best Hands-On Ideas
  • 4 Weeks Free Homeschool Panda Unit Study & Best Hands-On Ideas
  • Deer Unit Study & Notebooking Pages
  • Geology Unit Study And Easy DIY Eggshell Geode
  • Coral Reef Printable Lapbook and Fun Hands-on Unit Study Ideas
  • 5 Fun Candy Science Experiments and Unit Study & Homemade Lollipops

Leave a CommentFiled Under: My Unit Studies {Free Printables & Hands-on Ideas} Tagged With: elementary science, frog life cycle, frogs, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, life science, science

Rising Water with a Candle Easy Hands-On Science Experiment

February 22, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I have a cool rising water with a candle easy hands-on science experiment. Also, look at my page 4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas for more activities.

I think this hands-on experiment is great for showing science principles such as fire, oxygen and air pressure for kids in k- 6th grade.

This is one of my favorite simple science experiments because it is easy to pull together with common household items and has a dramatic effect.

Rising Water with a Candle Easy Hands-On Science Experiment

The rising water experiment involves a burning candle in a jar with water and demonstrates the concept of air pressure difference.

So, this experiment demonstrates principles of air pressure and temperature change.

And it shows how the temperature of air inside the jar affects its volume and the surrounding air pressure

PHYSICAL SCIENCE BOOKS FOR KIDS

First, look at these books about physical science for kids.

When possible, I prefer to use living books if we can find them. It’s not always easy.

10 Books About Physical Science

Physical science varies in topic. It can cover states of matter, forces and motion like push and pull, forms of energy like simple circuits, light and sound to earth and space.

Image for What Is the World Made Of?: All About Solids, Liquids, and Gases

What Is the World Made Of?: All About Solids, Liquids, and Gases

Can you make an ice cube disappear? Put it on a hot sidewalk. It melts into water and then vanishes! The ice cube changes from solid to liquid to gas. This Level 2 Let's-Read-and-Find-Out picture book is a fascinating exploration of the three states of matter. This clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom, uses simple, fun diagrams to explain the difference between solids, liquids, and gases. This book also includes a find out more section with experiments designed to encourage further exploration and introduce record keeping.

Image for Matter: Physical Science for Kids

Matter: Physical Science for Kids

In Matter: Physical Science for Kids, kids ages 5 to 8 explore the definition of matter and the different states of matter, plus the stuff in our world that isn’t matter, such as sound and light! In this nonfiction picture book, children are introduced to physical science through detailed illustrations paired with a compelling narrative that uses fun language to convey familiar examples of real-world science connections. By recognizing the basic physics concept of matter and identifying the different ways matter appears in real life, kids develop a fundamental understanding of physical science and are impressed with the idea that science is a constant part of our lives and not limited to classrooms and
laboratories

Image for The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements

The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements

Why did Gandhi hate iodine (I, 53)? How did radium (Ra, 88) nearly ruin Marie Curie's reputation? And why is gallium (Ga, 31) the go-to element for laboratory pranksters?The Periodic Table is a crowning scientific achievement, but it's also a treasure trove of adventure, betrayal, and obsession. These fascinating tales follow every element on the table as they play out their parts in human history, and in the lives of the (frequently) mad scientists who discovered them. The Disappearing Spoon masterfully fuses science with the classic lore of invention, investigation, and discovery.

Image for Archimedes and the Door of Science (Living History Library)

Archimedes and the Door of Science (Living History Library)

Jeanne Bendick, through text and pictures, admirably succeeds in bringing to life the ancient Greek mathematician who enriched mathematics and all branches of science. Against the backdrop of Archimedes' life and culture, the author discusses the man's work, his discoveries and the knowledge later based upon it. The simple, often humorous, illustrations and diagrams greatly enhance the text.

Image for Michael Faraday: Father of Electronics

Michael Faraday: Father of Electronics

Charles Ludwig retells Michael Faraday’s remarkable life story in fictionalized form. Here is the father of the electric motor, the dynamo, the transformer, the generator. Few persons are aware of the brilliant man’s deep Christian convictions and his determination to live by the Sermon on the Mount. For ages 12 to 15.

Image for Junior Science Book of Electricity

Junior Science Book of Electricity

Book about electricity for children.

Image for Energy Makes Things Happen

Energy Makes Things Happen

Did you know that energy comes from the food you eat? From the sun and wind? From fuel and heat? You get energy every time you eat. You transfer energy to other things every time you play baseball.

Image for Waves: Principles of Light, Electricity and Magnetism (The Secrets of the Universe)

Waves: Principles of Light, Electricity and Magnetism (The Secrets of the Universe)

Have you ever wondered why a prism turns ordinary sunlight into a rainbow? Isaac Newton knew why. How can a magnet be used to generate electricity? Michael Faraday could have told you. Can you explain how a toaster toasts bread? In this book, author Paul Fleisher answers these and many more questions as he looks at the laws that describe how waves behave. Through simple experiments, detailed illustrations and concepts that are easy to understand, readers are introduced to the basic principles of light, electricity and magnetism in a fun, exciting way.

Image for Liquids and Gases: Principles of Fluid Mechanics (Secrets of the Universe)

Liquids and Gases: Principles of Fluid Mechanics (Secrets of the Universe)

Have you ever wondered why a 10-tonne boat floats but a tiny pebble sinks? Archimedes knew why. How does a basketball or tennis ball bounce? Robert Boyle could have described how! Can you explain why a hot-air balloon rises but a balloon you blow up drops to the ground? To answer these questions and many more, author Paul Fleisher explains the laws that define how and why liquids and gases behave the way they do. Through simple experiments, detailed illustrations and concepts that are easy to understand, readers are introduced to the basic principles of fluid mechanics in a fun, exciting way.

Image for Marbles,Roller Skates,Doorknob

Marbles,Roller Skates,Doorknob

Explains the concepts of simple and complex machines and mechanical advantage, and describes how wheels, including gears and ball bearings, work

Also, look at a few more physical science hands-on experiments.

PHYSICAL SCIENCE HANDS-ON SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS

  • How to Make a Homemade Electrical Switch
  • 5 Facts About Inertia And Easy Coin Drop Inertia Experiment
  • How To Make A Newton’s Cradle With Popsicle Sticks | 5 Sir Isaac Newton Facts
  • Easy Atom Model Project: How To Create A Fun Lego Version
  • How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity
  • 40 Awesome Earth Science Movies for Kindergarten
  • EASY Hands-on Earth Science: Fun Water Testing Kit
  • Rock Activities For Kindergarten And Fun Edible Rock Cycle
  • 8 Earth Day Facts | How to Make a Recycled Robot
  • Dive Into STEM Learning With An Exciting Jello Earthquake Experiment
  • Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment
  • Space Science Experiment ~ Exploring one of Jupiter’s Moons
  • Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages
  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • Easy Study Of The Solar System Fun Interactive Worksheets
Rising Water with a Candle Easy Hands-On Science Experiment

Finally, look at the rising water with a candle science activity.

RISING WATER WITH A CANDLE HANDS-ON SCIENCE EXPERIMENT

Just a quick recap, as the candle burns it heats up the air inside the container, causing it to expand and escape. 

When the candle goes out the air cools rapidly and creates a lowered pressure inside the jar compared to the outside air, which results in the water rising to equalize the pressure.

You will need:

  • Mason jar or clear glass
  • A small candle.
  • Clay, Play-Doh
  • Lighter or matches
  • Water
  • small saucer
  • Food coloring – optional
Rising Water with a Candle Easy Hands-On Science Experiment

First, roll up a little bit of Play-Doh or clay and place in the center of your plate then press the candle into it.

This will hold your candle up in position for the experiment.

Rising Water with a Candle Easy Hands-On Science Experiment

Now you can use plain water, but if you add a drop or two of food coloring, you can really see what happens with the water a lot better.

Carefully pour your water into the saucer.

Rising Water with a Candle Easy Hands-On Science Experiment

Light the candle and make sure that it has caught on well.

Rising Water with a Candle Easy Hands-On Science Experiment

Slowly lower the mason jar over the candle until it is resting on the plate in the water.

Rising Water with a Candle Easy Hands-On Science Experiment

Watch what happens as the candle burns for just a bit and then burns out.

Kids find this absolutely amazing.

Rising Water with a Candle Easy Hands-On Science Experiment

We let the jar stay for a while in the water that remained inside the jar.

Once we moved the jar a bit and released the pressure, the water quickly flooded out.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: candles, elementary science, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, homeschoolscience, physical science, science, water

4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

February 19, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Here is a free 4-weeks physical science unit study that covers 4 of the main branches of physical science and covers a wide variety of ages. Also, look at my page Best Homeschool Unit Studies for more unit studies.

Physical science is an exciting field of study that explores the fundamental properties of matter and energy and their interactions.

It is an important part of your child’s science education.

It encompasses various branches and covers topics like physics, chemistry, astronomy, earth science (including geology and meteorology).

4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

And other subtopics are considered physical science like energy, forces, motion, electricity, magnetism, sound, light, and the study of matter.

One of the best overall resources for our bookshelf is The Kingfisher Science Encyclopedia as it is a great reference for a wide variety of science topics.

For our 4-weeks physical science unit I am going to give you fun resources as well as plenty of hands-on activities for each of the 4 main branches of physical science.

BOOKS ABOUT PHYSICAL SCIENCE FOR KIDS

First, look at these books to pair with the topics in physical science.

10 Books About Physical Science

Physical science varies in topic. It can cover states of matter, forces and motion like push and pull, forms of energy like simple circuits, light and sound to earth and space.

Image for What Is the World Made Of?: All About Solids, Liquids, and Gases

What Is the World Made Of?: All About Solids, Liquids, and Gases

Can you make an ice cube disappear? Put it on a hot sidewalk. It melts into water and then vanishes! The ice cube changes from solid to liquid to gas. This Level 2 Let's-Read-and-Find-Out picture book is a fascinating exploration of the three states of matter. This clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom, uses simple, fun diagrams to explain the difference between solids, liquids, and gases. This book also includes a find out more section with experiments designed to encourage further exploration and introduce record keeping.

Image for Matter: Physical Science for Kids

Matter: Physical Science for Kids

In Matter: Physical Science for Kids, kids ages 5 to 8 explore the definition of matter and the different states of matter, plus the stuff in our world that isn’t matter, such as sound and light! In this nonfiction picture book, children are introduced to physical science through detailed illustrations paired with a compelling narrative that uses fun language to convey familiar examples of real-world science connections. By recognizing the basic physics concept of matter and identifying the different ways matter appears in real life, kids develop a fundamental understanding of physical science and are impressed with the idea that science is a constant part of our lives and not limited to classrooms and
laboratories

Image for The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements

The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements

Why did Gandhi hate iodine (I, 53)? How did radium (Ra, 88) nearly ruin Marie Curie's reputation? And why is gallium (Ga, 31) the go-to element for laboratory pranksters?The Periodic Table is a crowning scientific achievement, but it's also a treasure trove of adventure, betrayal, and obsession. These fascinating tales follow every element on the table as they play out their parts in human history, and in the lives of the (frequently) mad scientists who discovered them. The Disappearing Spoon masterfully fuses science with the classic lore of invention, investigation, and discovery.

Image for Archimedes and the Door of Science (Living History Library)

Archimedes and the Door of Science (Living History Library)

Jeanne Bendick, through text and pictures, admirably succeeds in bringing to life the ancient Greek mathematician who enriched mathematics and all branches of science. Against the backdrop of Archimedes' life and culture, the author discusses the man's work, his discoveries and the knowledge later based upon it. The simple, often humorous, illustrations and diagrams greatly enhance the text.

Image for Michael Faraday: Father of Electronics

Michael Faraday: Father of Electronics

Charles Ludwig retells Michael Faraday’s remarkable life story in fictionalized form. Here is the father of the electric motor, the dynamo, the transformer, the generator. Few persons are aware of the brilliant man’s deep Christian convictions and his determination to live by the Sermon on the Mount. For ages 12 to 15.

Image for Junior Science Book of Electricity

Junior Science Book of Electricity

Book about electricity for children.

Image for Energy Makes Things Happen

Energy Makes Things Happen

Did you know that energy comes from the food you eat? From the sun and wind? From fuel and heat? You get energy every time you eat. You transfer energy to other things every time you play baseball.

Image for Waves: Principles of Light, Electricity and Magnetism (The Secrets of the Universe)

Waves: Principles of Light, Electricity and Magnetism (The Secrets of the Universe)

Have you ever wondered why a prism turns ordinary sunlight into a rainbow? Isaac Newton knew why. How can a magnet be used to generate electricity? Michael Faraday could have told you. Can you explain how a toaster toasts bread? In this book, author Paul Fleisher answers these and many more questions as he looks at the laws that describe how waves behave. Through simple experiments, detailed illustrations and concepts that are easy to understand, readers are introduced to the basic principles of light, electricity and magnetism in a fun, exciting way.

Image for Liquids and Gases: Principles of Fluid Mechanics (Secrets of the Universe)

Liquids and Gases: Principles of Fluid Mechanics (Secrets of the Universe)

Have you ever wondered why a 10-tonne boat floats but a tiny pebble sinks? Archimedes knew why. How does a basketball or tennis ball bounce? Robert Boyle could have described how! Can you explain why a hot-air balloon rises but a balloon you blow up drops to the ground? To answer these questions and many more, author Paul Fleisher explains the laws that define how and why liquids and gases behave the way they do. Through simple experiments, detailed illustrations and concepts that are easy to understand, readers are introduced to the basic principles of fluid mechanics in a fun, exciting way.

Image for Marbles,Roller Skates,Doorknob

Marbles,Roller Skates,Doorknob

Explains the concepts of simple and complex machines and mechanical advantage, and describes how wheels, including gears and ball bearings, work

Then we’re moving on to the 4 main areas.

First, start with chemistry.

CHEMISTRY PHYSICAL SCIENCE UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 1

Chemistry is about the science of matter.

Too, chemistry deals with the composition, structure, properties, and behavior of matter and the changes it undergoes during chemical reactions.

Then look at these hands-on ideas.

  • 2 Fun Chemistry for Kids Experiments & John Dalton Notebooking Pages
  • 10 Facts About Oxygen For Kids | How To Do An Underwater Flame Experiment |Free Printable
  • 21 Fun Chemistry Homeschool Ideas for Kids
  • 10 Popular High School Chemistry Homeschool Curriculum
  • How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable
  • Medieval Chemistry and Homeschool History – Fun Hands-On Activity
  • Homeschool High School Chemistry & Free Reference Sheet and Resources

ASTRONOMY PHYSICAL SCIENCE UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 2

Next, astronomy focuses on celestial objects and phenomena beyond Earth, such as stars, planets, galaxies, and nebulae.

  • Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment
  • Space Science Experiment ~ Exploring one of Jupiter’s Moons
  • Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages
  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • Easy Study Of The Solar System Fun Interactive Worksheets
  • About Astronomy and Space Science Fun Quick Unit Study
  • Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for Multiple Ages
  • Meteors, Meteorites, Comets and Meteoroids Today And Make a Fun Windsock
  • 5 Facts About The Moon Landing and Make Fun Astronaut Ice Cream
  • 10 Moon Craft Ideas and Wrapped Crescent Moon Craft For Kids

EARTH PHYSICAL SCIENCE UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 3

 Earth science investigates the Earth’s systems, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, and biosphere.

  • Landslide Science Experiment to Teach Fast Earth Changes
  • Free Earth Science Lapbook & Unit Study Ideas
  • 10 Hands On Earthquake Activities | How To Make A Model Seismometer
  • Edible Rock Cycle Fudge | Hands-on Rock Activities & Free Notebooking Pages
  • Free Homeschool Geology Unit Study And Easy DIY Eggshell Geode
  • Geoscavenge – A Rock and Mineral Hunt & Printable
  • Physical Science For Kindergarten: Free States Of Matter Pages
  • How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity
  • 40 Awesome Earth Science Movies for Kindergarten
  • EASY Hands-on Earth Science: Fun Water Testing Kit
  • Rock Activities For Kindergarten And Fun Edible Rock Cycle
  • 8 Earth Day Facts | How to Make a Recycled Robot
  • Dive Into STEM Learning With An Exciting Jello Earthquake Experiment

PHYSICS PHYSICAL SCIENCE UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 4

Then, physics studies the fundamental laws and properties of the universe, from the smallest particles to the largest galaxies.

And physics is the study of motion, energy, and forces, Too, it helps us understand how and why things move or stay still.

  • Ridiculously Easy Friction Science Experiment Your Kids Will Love
  • It’s Electric! How to Explore the Conductivity of Liquids
  • Paper Airplane Science – An Experiment Designed and Tested by Your Kids
  • How to Make a Homemade Electrical Switch
  • The Easy Sink Or Float Orange Density Experiment For Kids
  • Electricity STEM: Lighting Up a Shoebox Tiny House
  • 5 Facts About Inertia And Easy Coin Drop Inertia Experiment
  • How To Make A Newton’s Cradle With Popsicle Sticks | 5 Sir Isaac Newton Facts
  • Easy Atom Model Project: How To Create A Fun Lego Version
  • Rising Water with a Candle Easy Hands-On Science Experiment
  • Electricity Hands-On Homeschool Science Activity
  • Secrets Of Dancing Beads: A Sink Or Float Experiment
4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas
  • 10 Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids | Amazing Diet Coke & Mentos Experiment
  • 10 Fun Facts About Molecules | How To Do A Surface Tension Experiment

And then look at these other best homeschool unit studies.

MORE BEST HOMESCHOOL UNIT STUDIES

  • How Do Sharks Float STEM Activity Free Shark Unit Study & Notebooking Pages
  • Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano
  • Homeschool Unit Study Egg to Sea Turtle Lesson Plans & Lapbook
  • 5 Fun Candy Science Experiments and Unit Study & Homemade Lollipops
  • Deer Unit Study & Notebooking Pages
  • Geology Unit Study And Easy DIY Eggshell Geode
  • Coral Reef Printable Lapbook and Fun Hands-on Unit Study Ideas
  • Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity
  • Printable Strawberries Lapbook and Fun Homeschool Unit Study Ideas
  • Weather Unit Study for Kids Who Love Hands-on Learning
  • Easy Seeds and Gardening Unit Study for Kids (Middle – Upper Elementary)
  • Carnivorous Plants Lapbook and Homeschool Unit Study
  • Seashore Watching Unit Study and Beach Lapbook

Leave a CommentFiled Under: My Unit Studies {Free Printables & Hands-on Ideas} Tagged With: earth science, elementary science, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, high school science, homeschool, homeschoolscience, life science, physical science, physics, science

5 Facts About Inertia And Easy Coin Drop Inertia Experiment

February 16, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today I have 5 facts about inertia and an easy coin drop inertia experiment. Also, look at my post 4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas for more activities.

I love this easy activity when looking for an activity when studying physical science.

Sometimes it can be hard to explain to kids science concepts like the law of motion.

A hands-on science activity like the coin drop inertia activity helps children to understand the law.

And in simple terms the law of inertia is described as an object at rest will stay at rest unless acted upon by force.

5 Facts About Inertia And Easy Coin Drop Inertia Experiment

A scientist named Sir Isaac Newton came up with the idea of inertia.

He learned that objects don’t just start moving or stop moving on their own.

For example, if an object is not moving it wants to stay that way.

And if an object is moving it wants to keep moving.

BOOKS FOR KIDS ABOUT SIR ISAAC NEWTON

First, look at some of these books to add your hands-on science activity today.

7 Books For Kids Who Love Learning About Sir Isaac Newton

He was one of the most important scientists of his times. Your children will love adding some of these books to their reading day.

Image for Newton's Rainbow: The Revolutionary Discoveries of a Young Scientist

Newton's Rainbow: The Revolutionary Discoveries of a Young Scientist

Famed for his supposed encounter with a falling apple that inspired his theory of gravity, Isaac Newton (1642–1727) grew from a quiet and curious boy into one of the most influential scientists of all time. Newton's Rainbow tells the story of young Isaac―always reading, questioning, observing, and inventing―and how he eventually made his way to Cambridge University, where he studied the work of earlier scientists and began building on their accomplishments. This colorful picture book biography celebrates Newton's discoveries that illuminated the mysteries of gravity, motion, and even rainbows, discoveries that gave mankind a new understanding of the natural world, discoveries that changed science forever.

Image for Isaac Newton

Isaac Newton

A biography of Isaac Newton.

Image for Isaac Newton: Greatest Genius of Science (Genius Scientists and Their Genius Ideas)

Isaac Newton: Greatest Genius of Science (Genius Scientists and Their Genius Ideas)

A biography of the seventeenth-century English scientist who formulated the theory of gravity.

Image for World History Biographies: Isaac Newton: The Scientist Who Changed Everything

World History Biographies: Isaac Newton: The Scientist Who Changed Everything

Born in England in 1643, Isaac Newton grew up in the age when Renaissance thinkers were challenging accepted ideas throughout Europe. Fascinated by all earthly science, Newton developed laws of motion and universal gravitation which also furthered our understanding of the movement of celestial bodies. This vibrant biography profiles the famed physicist as an acclaimed mathematician, astronomer, alchemist, philosopher, and inventor as well. Readers will discover the genius who inspired Alexander Pope to write.

Image for The Ocean Of Truth: The Story Of Sir Isaac Newton

The Ocean Of Truth: The Story Of Sir Isaac Newton

Sir Isaac Newton is one of history's most renowned scientists. He independently developed the mathematical technique known as Calculus, wrote a treatise on the properties of light and color that is still consulted by scientists, and worked out the mathematical details of the law of gravity. What is less well known is the depth of his Christian faith, and the amount of writing, speaking, and research he devoted to defenses of the tenets of Biblical belief. This book makes Newton come alive for readers.

Image for Isaac the Alchemist: Secrets of Isaac Newton, Reveal'd

Isaac the Alchemist: Secrets of Isaac Newton, Reveal'd

A surprising true story of Isaac Newton’s boyhood suggests an intellectual development owing as much to magic as science. Before Isaac Newton became the father of physics, an accomplished mathematician, or a leader of the scientific revolution, he was a boy living in an apothecary’s house, observing and experimenting, recording his observations of the world in a tiny notebook. As a young genius living in a time before science as we know it existed, Isaac studied the few books he could get his hands on, built handmade machines, and experimented with alchemy—a process of chemical reactions that seemed, at the time, to be magical. Mary Losure’s riveting narrative nonfiction account of Isaac’s early life traces his development as a thinker from his childhood, in friendly prose that will capture the attention of today’s budding scientists—as if by magic. Back matter includes an afterword, an author’s note, source notes, a bibliography, and an index.

Image for Isaac Newton and Physics for Kids: His Life and Ideas with 21 Activities (30) (For Kids series)

Isaac Newton and Physics for Kids: His Life and Ideas with 21 Activities (30) (For Kids series)

Isaac Newton and Physics for Kids paints a rich portrait of this brilliant and complex man, including 21 hands-on projects that explore the scientific concepts Newton developed and the times in which he lived. Readers will build a simple waterwheel, create a 17thcentury plague mask, track the phases of the moon, and test Newton’s Three Laws of Motion using coins, a skateboard, and a
model boat they construct themselves. The text includes a time line, online resources, and reading list for further study. And through it all, readers will learn how the son of a Woolsthorpe sheep farmer grew to become the most influential physicist in history.

Next, look at these 5 facts about inertia.

5 FACTS ABOUT INERTIA

  1. In space objects in motion can keep going forever unless something like gravity or another object slows them down.
  2. Objects like to stay the same. For instance, if an object is moving it likes to stay moving until it meet with friction or a wall.
  3. Inertia is everywhere. It affects objects here on earth to rockets in space.
  4. It is called the First Law of Motion as explained by Sir Isaac Newton.
  5. When an object is heavy or strong, then the more inertia it has.

Also, look at these other fun inertia science activities for kids.

MORE INERTIA ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

  • Drop an Egg to Prove The First Law of Motion
  • Inertia and Spinning Marbles
  • Egg Inertia (Amazing Egg) Science Experiment
  • 24 Elementary Force and Motion Experiments & Activities
  • Center of Mass Activity

Finally, look easy coin drop inertia experiment.

EASY COIN DROP INERTIA EXPERIMENT

Look at this easy list of supplies:

  • 1 coin
  • 1 index card
  • Jar or vase (plastic or glass)

First, gather all the supplies.

5 Facts About Inertia And Easy Coin Drop Inertia Experiment

Place the index card over the jar or vase.

5 Facts About Inertia And Easy Coin Drop Inertia Experiment

Then place the coin in the middle of the index card.

5 Facts About Inertia And Easy Coin Drop Inertia Experiment

Flick the index card with your finger.

Watch as the index card flies off the jar or vase and the penny drops into the jar.

5 Facts About Inertia And Easy Coin Drop Inertia Experiment

Why does this happen? The law of inertia.

The law of inertia is described as an object at rest will remain at rest unless acted upon by force.

And the penny wants to stay still due to its inertia but when the card is quickly flicked away the penny spins and then drops because of gravity.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: elementary science, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, inertia, science

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