Hands-on lessons help to spark interest and keep the attention of kids. However, if you lack the right equipment, students won’t have the same opportunities for learning and growth in science. Here are five tools that every science classroom needs.
1. Gram Scale
A gram scale is an absolute necessity to many science projects. When exact weights are needed for small weights, only the gram scale will work. Most are digital now and have the option of metric or standard measurements. Many experiments require measurements of weight and mass. This tool is essential for these functions. Such experiments that help tie science and math together with clarity will help students to understand more fully the nature of scientific study.
2. Microscope
Good quality biological high power microscopes make science come to life as students gaze at the cellular level of everyday items. They can see that a drop of blood lives for several seconds once it leaves the body. They can see that a drop of stagnant pond water is teeming with life. They can examine a fingernail clipping and see the need for better hygiene. Microscopes are among the most essential tools in science, so help your students get ahead by helping them to become familiar with how to use them effectively.
3. Camera
With a good camera wired to a computer, experiments take on more meaning as students have time-lapse video available to them. After they’ve planted a seed in a dish that enables them to see the roots of the plant, not only can they observe it from day to day, but they can see how alive the plant actually is as they watch it blossom in only seconds on video. You can also use it to slow down experiments with quick reactions, like rocket launches, so that students can appreciate better from a scientific perspective what is actually happening and why.
4. Small Lab Stands
Lab stands are necessary to keep many experiments safe. They free up hands and help to keep the science lab orderly. When dealing with caustic substances, they are absolutely essential. Without lab stands, many experiments are too dangerous to attempt. Make sure they are cleaned and in good repair. Usually, you can get lab stands in bulk for reasonable prices for your classroom.
5. Weather Lab
The weather lab at a school will serve students well in helping them understand weather and climate. Knowledge of the subjects will also displace the fears that many children have of violent weather and replace those fears with the power of knowing how to protect themselves from the harm that storms can bring. Many instruments are available on the market. Teamed up with good software, as well as video and educational television, a school’s weather lab will enhance the understanding of most weather phenomena and conditions.
The good news is that you can find all these items for good prices if you are willing to do the research. Check a number of different sites and be sure to look into whether an educator discount is offered. You really don’t have to break the bank to get your science class well-supplied.
The world needs trained scientists more than ever in our modern world. With good teaching and equipment, we can bring and keep science at the forefront of education and help to inspire our children to seek further knowledge in the subjects of physics and the more advanced mathematical studies.