As science teachers prepare to go back to school next school year, some have already returned, they are always looking for good online resources to supplement their lessons. It’s always nice when someone helps you by looking at science websites and making recommendations.
The best science education websites are interactive, allowing students to change or manipulate variables to observe what is happening and share them with others. This falls within the limits of inquiry-based teaching and learning. Students design their own experiments, observe the results, and report their findings.
The following sites were previewed and meet the interactivity and query criteria:
FOSS web – was designed to support Full Option Science System (FOSS) Science K-8 Science Kits, but anyone can use the interactive activities for grades K-8.
volcano cams – provides real-time views of volcanoes around the world. With these virtual cameras for grades 5 to 12, students can observe volcanoes and develop their own experiments.
Discover eLearning – offers simulators for all science concept areas for grades 3 – 12.
Real-time stream flow data across the country – Real-time data provided by the US Geological Survey (USGS) is typically recorded at 15 to 60 minute intervals and transmitted to the US Geological Survey offices every four hours. Dates can be selected for grades 8-12 by state and county.
Real-time water quality data across the country-Real-time water quality data provided by the US Geological Survey (USGS) is returned directly to field instruments. The data is updated at intervals of five minutes to one hour. Dates can be selected for grades 8-12 by state and county.
Design a roller coaster – allows students to design their own roller coaster. You build a conceptual roller coaster using the same physical concepts used to design real roller coasters for grades 6 through 12.
Human anatomy online – allows students to explore human anatomy. Each theme has animations, hundreds of graphics, and thousands of descriptive links for grades 4 through 12.
Earth and Atmospheric Children Crossroads – allows students to explore water, atmosphere and weather for grades 3-8.
recycle city – lets students explore many ways to see how a city’s residents recycle, reduce, and reuse waste for grades 3 through 8.
MBG Net – allows students to explore biomes, freshwater systems, and marine systems of the world for grades 6-12.
Thanks to David Wetzel
