The scientific method for preschoolers
Globule wonders...
To develop little ones' curiosity and answer questions they may ask, it may be interesting to introduce children to the scientific method by helping them appreciate science through play.
Globule is a curious character who enjoys presenting experimental activities in the form of questions.
The scientific method is a universal work method that consists of 5 steps:
- A goal
- Hypotheses
- Experimentation
- Results
- Explanations
Thus, Globule's question corresponds to the first step of the scientific method. Children can try to answer his question by offering hypotheses and assumptions (step 2). Next, they perform various manipulations with Globule as their guide. The experimentation (step 3) is the moment when children touch, smell, look, listen, and taste to observe a phenomenon. With preschool-aged children, emphasis should be placed on these first three steps. The results (step 4) are of little importance. Brief explanations can be provided (step 5), but it is important to keep in mind that the goal is not to understand a phenomenon, but to observe it.
Children in action
Explanations are provided for each experiment. However, when children are very young, explanations are unnecessary. After all, they don't understand them. All experiments can be demonstrated by the early childhood educator or performed by children individually or in small groups. The method used is up to you; it depends on the number of children in your group and the material required.
Angélique Boissonneault
has a Bachelor's Degree in Biological Science. She has worked in a laboratory and tested her knowledge. She has taught Math, Chemistry, and Physics. She has also developed a simplistic and innovative approach designed to introduce young children to scientific experiments, old and new. She created her friend Globule. This character is sometimes red, and sometimes white. He guides little ones through their scientific experiments and discoveries. It is clear to see Angélique is passionate about children and science. Globule's Approach.