An inexpensive at-home quantitative analysis activity was developed for the determination of glucose in unknown samples using paper-based microfluidic devices. All of the materials and reagents for the activity fit in a small kit that was mailed to students. The only items students needed to supply were water and a smartphone. Microgram quantities…

This article illustrates several types of at-home science experiences that could be incorporated during grades K-2 to provide enriching science experiences that are motivating for students without requiring exhaustive work and preparation. These activities are designed to augment science interest and enthusiasm of students in the classroom and…

The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically affected U.S. schools since March 2020. K-12 schools have put in place various forms of remote learning to continue the education of students. In trying times like these, young students face unique unprecedented challenges. Often, they need parents' and/or guardians' supervision and guidance at home. How can…

By developing a relationship of trust and respect with children, educators create a classroom culture that supports questioning. One strategy to extend children's thinking is to provide unfamiliar materials to provoke questioning. This column discusses resources and science topics related to students in grades preK to 2. This month's column…

Discusses strategies by which high school teachers can take advantage of the assistance parents can provide, including reading articles with their children, mini-projects, and home labs. (MKR)

A study to find out how teachers involve parents in learning programs is described. Teachers are advised to send letters to the parents of students they will be teaching the following year asking for support in overcoming summer learning loss. Specific activities teachers could suggest are offered. (MT)

Summarizes arguments of advocates and opponents of homework. Stresses that timing of assignments, nature of and reasons for giving assignments, clarity and completeness of assignment explanations, and treatment of completed assignments must be considered for homework to be an effective, joy-giving tool. Offers nine ideas for making homework more…

This article discusses how one teacher uses a weekend study buddy as a portable learning center for students (ages 5-9) with mild disabilities. The study buddy is a colorful cloth or paper bag that the students take home over the weekend. It can also be individualized to target particular needs. (Contains 8 references.) (CR)

Presents a simple exercise for students to do in the kitchen at home to determine the latent heat of vaporization of water using typical household materials. Designed to stress understanding by sacrificing precision for simplicity. (JRH)

A study to quantify continuing education credit hours awarded for pharmacy home study is reported. Selected home study courses were administered to volunteers under supervision. Time needed for completion and examination, learner assessment of difficulty, and word count and number of questions per lesson were used to calculate credits. (Author/MSE)

Describes a parental involvement program in reading, writing, and human education. The project consists of caring for Clifford, a stuffed toy dog, on a rotated basis by first grade students. Books and pet care items accompany Clifford and provide an opportunity for parent and child to work together. (ML)

Presents simple and safe activities for student use in the classroom or at home to help them to better understand the unique properties of water. (ZWH)

A simple experiment concerning the elasticity of wood is described that can easily be performed at home. The forces needed to produce a stress in wood are measured and compared. Provides a mathematical discussion of the elasticity and stress of wood. (MVL)

Presents an inexpensive take-home laboratory activity designed to enhance students understanding of atmospheric pressure by allowing them to engage in a hands-on, discovery approach to physics. (ZWH)

Guidelines are presented to assist special educators in implementing homework practices. They include determining the amount of homework, deciding on the content of homework, selecting the type of homework, explaining homework to students, assisting students with their homework, motivating students to complete homework, evaluating homework, and…