Looking at objects closely is an important part of science, and a magnifying glass lets us see things we don't even know are there. It also helps us see how objects are similar or different from each other.
What you'll need
A magnifying glass
Your science journal
What to do - Use your magnifying glass to see:
- What's hidden in soil or under leaves;
- What's on both sides of leaves;
- How mosquitos bite;
- Different patterns of snowflakes; and
- Butterfly wings.
- How many different objects can you find in the soil?
- Draw pictures, or describe what you see, in your notebook
If you were able to examine a mosquito, you probably saw how it bites something--with its proboscis, a long hollow tube that sticks out of its head. Snowflakes are fascinating because no two are alike. Powdery scales give butterfly wings their color.
ATTACK OF THE STRAWS
Can a paper straw go through a raw potato? Here's an easy way to learn about inertia and momentum.
What you'll need
A raw potato
One or more paper straws
Your science journal
What to do
- Put a potato on the table or kitchen counter and hold it firmly with one hand, making sure the palm of your hand is not underneath the potato.*
- With a fast, strong push, stab the potato with the straw.
- What happens? Did the straw bend? The straw should go into the potato. If it didn't, try again with another straw - maybe a little faster or harder.
*If the potato is old, soak it in water for about half an hour before trying this activity.
An object remains at rest (the potato, in this case) or keeps moving (the straw, in this case) unless it is acted upon by some external force.
