The Scientific Method in Early Childhood Classroom
Even the youngest of children are capable of scientific thought and as educators, we need to provide them with opportunities to explore scientific thinking. Children use the scientific process without even realizing it which makes this type of learning more fun and engaging. Let's look at some of the basics of the scientific method and how to support children’s skill development.
The Scientific Method
Purpose
What do you what to know?
Will a pencil float in water?
Research
What can you find out?
I asked my friends if they had ever seen a pencil float in water.
Create a Hypothesis
What do you predict?
I hypothesize the pencil will float in water.
Experiment
How are you going to test it?
I will fill a bowl with water and then place a pencil on top of the water.
Analysis
What happened?
The pencil floated on top of the water.
Conclusion
What did you find out?
Pencils’ will float in water.
Throughout this entire process, children are able to use all of their senses to learn about an object and collect information. They are able to make predictions and work on classifying and grouping, measuring, and communicating. Through the simple act of asking a question, educators can introduce a variety of skills and support children’s natural curiosity and interests.
Interesting in learning new ways to support children’s skill development?
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