At Pearl Hearts, science activities in the early grades are what lay the groundwork for student understanding in the subject, and we’re talking hands-on lab experiments, not just reading dull textbooks. Hands-on investigation through laboratory experimentation is the best way to introduce students to scientific inquiry, the process of asking questions and conducting experiments as a way to understand the natural world, which is the foundation of science education.
Laboratory instruction or “lab” isn’t just about beakers and Bunsen burners. A “lab” can be in the classroom, at home, or out in the field—anywhere that provides students with the opportunity to interact directly with natural phenomena or with raw data. These labs allow students to design investigations, engage in scientific reasoning, manipulate equipment, record data, analyze results, and discuss their findings. While reading about science, using computer simulations, and observing teacher demonstrations may be valuable, they are not a substitute for laboratory investigations by students. Not only is it a better way to learn science, but it’s also more fun.
Kids love laboratories and are concrete thinkers who love to tinker with things, manipulate things, watch things that move, and things that change.
