The Benefits of Assigning A 24 Hour Science Project For Your Science Homework

There are good reasons for teachers to include a short, simple science project that can be completed in one day as part of their curriculum. Students in the early grades as well as those in middle and high school can have one specific idea clearly illustrated in an experiment that can be completed as a 24 hour science project rather than reading about it. This type of hands on assignment not only helps students learn something new, or explain an idea,, it also builds good independent learning habits without getting too complicated. This article will explore some of these purposes.

Homework First of all a 24 hour science project works well for science homework assignment. A simple, experiment with just a few steps to it, can be finished in one evening., or set up one night and observed and written up the next night. These simple assignment usually use basic materials that can be found around the house, so parents don't have to go running around looking for obscure things at the store. The project will not take over the whole evening, leaving time to do all the rest of the homework for other classes.

Focus Another purpose of a one day project is that they keep students focused on just one feature of a sometimes complicated concept. Kids sometimes have trouble with larger science concepts, they can be overwhelming. These projects can help them stay focused on just piece of the puzzle rather tan getting sidetracked by all the other pieces.

Independence One important goal in using an independent science project as homework is to teach independence. These projects are generally designed so that students can do them on their own. They are away from school and the influence of teachers and other friends. You can expect the assignment will be organized well, with clear directions, and include a convenient place to keep track of any data. With this kind of set up, the assignment can be done on their own, with no help. The more chance they have to do this sort of project on their own the better.

Variety A science project that can be completed in 24 hours breaks up the monotony of reading, and answering questions from a textbook that traditional science homework. A project like this also gives variety to the rest of the night's homework. Any hands on activity breaks up the routine of with math problems, writing, and reading.

Interest in Science If there are some fun, hands on science projects to look forward to, a healthy interest in the science might evolve. So many times science ends up being a boring or confusing class, creating these simple projects to include as often as possible, will stir up interest in what they are studying.

All in all the purpose of a 24 science project goes far beyond the experiment and the results. A positive, successful experience with science that adds variety to the homework routine, creating independent work habits

Here is a link to a great digital resource for simple, easy to follow 24 hour science projects, weekend projects and demonstration projects. Often these digital products cost less than what you would pay for a pizza.
One Day Science Fair Projects
Step by Step Blueprints for Students and Parents
http://24hourscienceprojects.blogspot.com

You will find links for Middle School Science Projects too!
http://24hourscienceprojects.blogspot.com

My name is Sue Gnagy Fegan and I used a structured, sequential multisensory teaching approach for the past 34 years. I saw first hand the benefits of engaging students in productive, hands on activities to make learning more meaningful and more fun.