Introduction
As educators and parents, we are continually on the lookout for engaging, fun, and effective learning resources that can spark curiosity in our middle and high school students. With science being such a broad and exciting subject, what better way to inspire young minds than through free activities, videos, and educational materials? We’ve compiled a list of fantastic resources that are perfect for boosting the learning experience in your classroom or at home.
1. The Exploratorium’s Science Snacks
The Exploratorium’s Science Snacks are bite-sized science activities that can be enjoyed with easily accessible items found around the house or purchased at the store. Be it physics, chemistry, or earth sciences, these hands-on projects encourage critical thinking and creative problem-solving for any young scientist.
Link: https://www.exploratorium.edu/snacks
2. Ted-Ed Science Lessons
Ted-Ed offers captivating animated videos covering an extensive range of subjects. These videos come with additional resources like quizzes, further reading suggestions, and discussion prompts to challenge learners on their knowledge while encouraging deeper thinking.
Link: https://ed.ted.com/lessons?content_type=animations&direction=desc&sort=publish-date&user_by_click=student
3. NASA’s Climate Kids
For students interested in environmental sciences and understanding our world’s climate, NASA’s Climate Kids features exciting games, informative articles, insightful interviews with professionals and more. This platform is designed to engage young minds on topics such as energy usage, ocean life or global temperature change.
Link: https://climate.nasa.gov/kids/
4. National Geographic’s YouTube Channel
National Geographic’s YouTube channel offers a vast library of short-form documentaries and visually stunning footage that covers all aspects of the wild and natural world. The channel creates engaging content suitable for older kids seeking to explore intriguing topics, such as animal behaviors, human history, and stunning landscapes.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpVm7bg6pXKo1Pr6k5kxG9A
5. PhET Interactive Simulations
PhET Interactive Simulations provides interactive simulations for subjects like physics, chemistry, biology, earth sciences, and math. Students can experiment with these simulations to reinforce concepts learned in class and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter at hand.
Link: https://phet.colorado.edu/
Conclusion
Empower your students with these free and accessible resources to help inspire their love for science. These engaging online materials are perfect for enhancing scientific learning both inside and outside the classroom. With their diverse range of subjects and activities, there’s bound to be something that sparks curiosity and encourages your middle or high school students to dive deeper into the world of science.
