Discovery

Discovery

In the discovery area, children have a chance to explore many science-related materials. They are allowed to use technology, like magnifying glasses and balances, to learn more about different items. Children use their problem-solving skills to answer questions they might have about different topics of study. For example, they might spend some time observing the classroom plants to learn about what they need to survive or they might observe different kinds of bugs to find out how they are different and how they are the same.

As in the other areas, children are always encouraged to communicate their discoveries. They might do this through graphs, pictures, notes, or photographs. This area not only strengthens their language skills, but it also encourages them to use various pre-writing skills. Often children will be working in groups in this area, which helps them practice social skills.

Ideas for Home:

The best place for you to use some of these ideas is in your back yard. Take your children outside and let them explore. If they seem interested in one particular part of nature (e.g. leaves or bugs) allow them to collect those things for a deeper exploration. If you happen to have a magnifying glass, microscope, or another technologies, let your children use them to explore the items as well.

Encouraging your children to ask questions of what they are seeing and guiding them to find the answers will help them gain a healthy curiosity about the world. It increases their attention spans and opens up the doors to many different kinds of books and reading material.

Source:
Dodge, Diane T., Colker, Laura J., Heroman, Cate. (2002). The Creative Curriculum.
        Washington DC: Teaching Strategies Inc.