Homework Help in Science for Kids
Homework can be a frustrating nightly event for you and your child. It can generate misunderstandings, mistakes and poor grades in any subject. However, with a few changes and use of the right resources, science homework can be tackled with little trouble. Believe it or not, it can even lead to fun and interesting discoveries for the both of you.
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General Homework Strategies
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Lee Canter, educator and parent, offers five steps to better homework results in any subject. Canter's first step is to schedule a specific homework time each day. Second, he suggests setting up a study area. This can be any quiet, orderly place where a child can concentrate. TV and siblings need to be out of the area. Canter's third step is to have supplies ready for any homework project, including tape, scissors, pencils, pens, etc. The fourth step is to tell your child how important homework is to learning. And finally, Canter reminds parents to praise a child when he does his homework well. These five steps can set the stage for more productive homework time.
Online Resources
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One of the easiest ways to get help on science homework these days is on the Internet. There are a variety of sites offering valuable information, tutorials and even real scientists to answer questions your child may have. B.J. Pinchbeck’s Homework Helper has a wide range of science topics, from zoology to cell biology. The Multnomah County Library has assembled a great number of science websites on its homework help page. On the Mad Scientist Network, scientists will answer your child’s questions, or you can search their archives of questions and answers from previous students. National Geographic has a kids' website advertised as a “one-stop research and photo help for assignments.”
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Books
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Your local library also has much to offer a struggling science student. For the younger child, "Magic School Bus" books by JoAnna Cole offer simple and fun explanations of science topics in a cartoon-adventure format. She has written "Magic School Bus" books on many subjects, ranging from electricity to bees. If your child is a visual learner, there are video versions of many of her books. There are also many books written by Seymour Simon with descriptive pictures and fascinating facts. He has written books on the human body, outer space, weather and much more. If you are stuck on a science project idea, turn to Janice Van Cleave’s many science experiment books. She gives detailed instructions on a number of fun experiments and projects.
Magazines
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Magazines are an often forgotten resource for kids. However, there are multiple magazines that can present science in new and interesting ways, accompanied by photographs and personal interviews. For elementary students, Spigot science magazine follows national science standards and offers activities and articles on common science topics. Also, the magazine "Ask" can inspire and help students to understand complicated topics. For middle school kids, Odyssey offers valuable in-depth information. Other favorites include "National Geographic for Kids," "Ranger Rick" and "Kids Discover."
Tutors
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For the student who is still struggling after all the resources have been exhausted, tutors are available in any subject. But before you spend the money on a private tutor, check with your child’s teacher and school. Some schools have tutors on hand to assist students. Other times, a teacher can suggest a fellow student who excels in science to assist your child. Libraries, churches and community centers also occasionally offer free tutoring programs. Never forget, however, that very few children will complete homework if no one is keeping them accountable. Tutors cannot replace good parents.
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References
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- Photo Credit young boy studying image by Stepanov from Fotolia.com
