Seems like it has been too long since we’ve done any science activities, so let’s share a book for STEM Friday that is sure to get the scientific inquiries flowing. Explore Gravity!: With 25 Great Projects (Explore Your World series)
is a new children’s project book that helps budding physicists learn about why gravity is important and how it works. The best part is that it is filled with hands-on projects that can be done with easy-to-obtain objects, mostly from around the house.
What to like:Â The instructions are clear and easy to follow. New vocabulary words are highlighted with bold font, and then defined in sidebar glossaries. There is also a complete glossary in the back, as well as an index (great for finding projects fast). Plus the projects are fun and some, like the marshmallow trebuchet, are sure to “launch” new projects
Studying the effects of gravity and weightlessness can be a blast for adults, too. Check out scientists investigating fluid movement in weightless conditions in this video from Science Friday. Note: some mention of the adverse effects of nausea are discussed briefly.
For a more advanced discussion of how gravity works and what it is, check out this video at How Stuff Works.
You can also do this by stretching out a bed sheet.
Explore Gravity!: With 25 Great Projects is a perfect way to investigate how gravity works and to inspire budding scientists.
Related activities:
At the Nomad Press Explore Gravity page, select activities in the lower left sidebar (you will need to scroll down to see it) and a link will come up for you to download free instructions to make a balance sculpture (mobile).
Making parachutes is a good way to explore the forces of gravity.
Making siphons is another way to explore gravity (Growing With Science Water Cycle, second activity).
Age Range: 7 – 9 years
Series: Explore Your World series
Paperback: 96 pages
Publisher: Nomad Press (November 1, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1619302071
ISBN-13: 978-1619302075
Disclosures:Â The book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. Also, I am an affiliate for Amazon, and if you click through the linked titles or ads and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. Proceeds will be used to maintain this self-hosted blog.
Come visit the STEM Friday blog each week to find more great Science, Technology, Engineering and Math books.
