In my first blog I talked about mystifying students in order to gain students attention and get them into science. So I looked on youtube for some cool tricks that could be done in the classroom to get students into science. Here are some that I would use.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2suY9h7xnKg
This is a really simple trick using pepper water and detergient.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qs8wAJIk1gA&feature=related
This trick uses a candle to show suction and pressure.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntjHVQOKDdo&feature=related
I am not really sure how this one works but the supplies are simple, toothpicks, bottle, water, and plastic wrap.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ghn4lEtdusQ&feature=related
This one includes fire which is a little risky but all you need is a teabag and liter.
On youtube there are a ton of illusions that I would stay away from, to me it is important to make sure that the experiments are explainable. Students should be able to research a trick and be able to explain how and why it works. There is an endless amount of these tricks that students would find mystifying. These tricks only take a minute and would be a really awesome way to start class.
How fun! It is important we find ways to grab are student attention right at the beginning of class, and find a way to keep them excited for the next day. These are great ways to do both of those things. Like you said though it is important to stay cautious about what illusions you are using, and to make sure the ones you use in the classrooms are explainable. I feel another fun way to keep children interested is to not tell the students right way about why the illusion works, instead let them do their own research.
ReplyDeleteA well planned experiment to introduce a concept to students is a great way to get them interested. Thanks for the great links to add to my collection!
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