1. Practice using common science tools before diving into any units or experiments. Young scientists need time to practice using science tools such as pipettes, digital scales, graduated cylinders or even goggles. One way to do this is to set up science tools centers around the room and let students practice using the tools you plan to use throughout the year. This will save oodles of time and frustration.
2. Give Your Students Science Notebooks. Have students decorate their own science notebook. A simple single subject notebook or composition book will work well. Science notebooks help make your students feel like real scientists, and give them a place to write observations or glue artifacts from experiments. The notebooks also serve as a great review tool for students to study for tests.
3. Preview Science Units. Give students a glimpse into the different topics and units they will be learning about this year. This will get them excited about science and give them plenty to look forward to.
4. Introduce Your Students to the Wide Variety of Science Careers. Many young students are not aware of the wide variety of science fields. Brainstorm different kinds of scientists with your students and find books or internet resources that depict the wide variety of science fields. This can get students excited about science and perhaps encourage them to pursue a science career in their future.
5. Round Up Resources for Science Units: Research supports a hands on approach for teaching and learning science. Finding inexpensive (or free) science resources is essential. Try finding community partners such as grocery stores or small business that can donate to your science lessons. I get meat trays from the local grocery store for free that work great for many science experiments. Use crowd funding platforms to fund your science materials; Donor's Choose is a good one, but there are many more. Ask your school PTA to help you pay for science supplies. If your district allows, you could also send home lists of needed supplies to parents if they are things parents might have at home.
I do have a few resources in my store to help with the tips above. I have a Science Experiment Tools product that has center activities for many common science tools. I have a free Science Notebook Starter Pack that can help your students get started with setting up notebooks. I also have a Science Careers Bundle that gives students a chance to learn about 5 different science careers. Each career has a hands on activity that simulates what each type of scientist might do as part of their jobs.
Here's to wishing you a fantastic year of science!!!!
