A Cool Science Experiment

In my ebook, 101 Hands-On, Tried & True Homeschool Curriculum Ideas You'll Love! I present the most engaging and effective reading, writing, and math learning activities I used during our 15 years of homeschooling. My original intent was to write a book covering all of the core subjects for ages 5 through 12; however, during the writing process, I quickly realized that had more than enough ideas just for these three basic subjects.

So... my next ebook is currently in the works; 101 MORE Hands-On, Tried & True Homeschool Curriculum Ideas You'll Love! This companion ebook will include great learning activities in the areas of social studies (history, current events, geography, social responsibility), science, and fine arts. I expect to complete the book within the next month or two.

I mention this so that a) as a visitor and reader of Homeschooling Helper, you'll know to be on the look out for the companion ebook, and b) because I realize in this weblog I have been lax about presenting learning activities in the areas of social studies, science, and fine arts!

So, today's learning activity is in the field of PHYSICS! You can perform this experiment at home with readily available materials.

Did You Know That Air Can Hold a Stick Down?

Place a yardstick on a table with about one foot extending beyond the edge. Strike down on the free end. What happens? (The other end pops up into the air.)

Now lay just a sheet or two of newspaper over the section of the stick that rests on the table. Smooth down the newspapers carefully by stroking from the center of the paper to the edges.
Now hit the free end again. What happens? (The covered portion will not move up.)

Hit the uncovered free end again, this time with a hammer (not too hard). Now what happens? (It still won't move, unless you hit it too hard; then it will crack or break!)

What just happened? The newspaper created a very large surface for the air above to press down on, and when you smoothed down the newspaper, you pressed all of the air out from under the it. This allowed the weight of the air above to press directly down on the newspaper, the table and the stick in between. Air can be heavy!

Science experiments are perfect "hands-on" learning activities, and children love them. You'll find many more just like this one in my new ebook, and I promise I'll include more here in the future.

I hope these learning activities and ideas are helpful to you and your homeschool. This week's sponsors are Monex, where you can find precious metals quotes and more information about precious metals investing; and Lussori, for a stunning collection of gemstone rings and other gemstone jewelry.

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