subject: Laboratory Equipment Is Just The Beginning [print this page] Science is a hard luck subject for most parents. In fact, it's one of the classes most parents steer clear of having to help their kids with. From scientific jargon to laboratory equipment, most parents are woefully ignorant, which means their kids are left high and dry when it comes to getting some help. Sad is the parent who has to make sense of science homework. Mind you, this isn't relegated to chemistry, but can include physics and all the life sciences.
The king of the life sciences, biology, tends to focus on cell reproduction, photosynthesis, and the like. If it's related to a living organism, you can be sure biology will cover it. Getting a jump on what your kids may be inclined to ask you means actually reading their textbooks. Yes, it's no fun, but it's how you can anticipate both the questions and the answers.
Once upon a time, astronomy -- now tagged as celestial science -- meant studying the nine planets in this, our humble solar system. Now, astronomy means understanding that we only have eight planets and four dwarf planets -- of which Pluto is one. What happened? It's amazing what a decade of carbon dating will do to textbooks.
Now we turn our attention to a very popular science in middle school: physical science. This means physics and this means you will have to do your homework so you understand it's explained to your kids in school. You need to understand the basic laws of physics and the Newtonian principles as well. Trust me, you'll thank me later.
In order to round out your access to science issues, try subscribing to some science magazines. These don't have to be anything fancy -- National Geographic, Astronomy Times, and Wired are all good examples of accessible magazines that will help you and your kids learn more about science. This will help you -- and the tikes -- put together complex ideas and concepts.
