Second Grade Historical Experiments
The people who we consider to be great scientists now are the same people who were, during their time, thought of as crazy or eccentric. Studying the lives and trials of these scientists gives us a good understanding of what the world of science has been through, and how it has evolved into the subject that we know today. So apart from studying scientific concepts themselves, it is quite useful to study the history behind the concept and the person behind the conclusion.
One of the best traits that historical scientists left behind is the power and flexibility of imagination. Many times, scientists just dreamed a large part of what they planned on experimenting. They went with their hunches to see if they would come up with something plausible or true. This is something your child can definitely relate with.
Many children are naturally imaginative and they can come up with great ideas faster than you realize. Showing them that a lot of great scientific discoveries and successful experiments were based on imaginative thinking can make them feel like great scientists themselves. Sharpen your child's imagination by making them think of several options for how to complete experiments. Something as simple as asking your child for a fast way to turn an ice cube into water can begin turning their imagination wheels. They may ask you to microwave it or hold it over the stove. Even though these are simple answers to you, it shows that your child is definitely thinking of different ways.
The second trait that many of the historical scientists left behind is perseverance. This is a very important trait for your children to have when it comes to studying science, and for all other subjects for that matter. The truth about science is that you often have to keep studying, experimenting and working at it. Showing your children how hard many of the past scientists worked by never giving up and making their study their life's work teaches your child perseverance. They can't become great scientists overnight. It is something they will have to work on over a period of time, but it will give them great rewards in the end.
Try and discuss some of the historical experiments with your child every once in a while. The experiments will help them remember that they have to be imaginative all the time and persevere in their scientific endeavors. It will also give them good ideas for science experiments that they can do.
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