Introduction

I am a Biology professor at Columbia Gorge Community College and run an after-school science club for students at our local elementary school here in Mosier, Oregon. Many of the supplies can be easily found at minimal cost at the grocery store. My classes run 1 hour and tend to follow a theme. Activities are meant to be hands-on for the students. Demonstration are shown by me, due to potential fire or chemical danger, or complexity. These experiments are not novel and can easily referenced from the internet for more details or elaboration.

Each activity notes the supplies per student or demonstration. Directions are noted with the order of operations that works best for a single teacher and class of 12-14 excited students. I use inquiry-based instruction to encourage students to form a quick hypothesis before we do certain steps. After the experiment, we reflect on what has happened. Where appropriate with grade level, we talk about the scientific theory behind the experiment. The time needed and grades are flexible.

If taught in a classroom, I advise to do major clean-up after the class. All wet re-useable materials I add to a garbage bag to wash later. I use plastic plates underneath each student experiment to catch messes. I have also used a table-sized tarp or other plastic-like material across the entire table. I have cloth towels and plenty or paper towels on hand. It is helpful to have a sink in the room, a garbage can nearby, and be prepared to sweep the floor afterwards.

Adjust any experiments to your liking. Remember that your students are the scientists and may want to try something out outside of the instructions. The main point is to be curious and have fun! If you have any suggestions or feedback, I would love to hear from you.

Emilie Miller, Ph.D

emiliedm@yahoo.com