For a complete introduction and to get to know each Quirkle, work your way across the main menu bar above. Have fun exploring, and please contact us with any questions you may have!
But that's not all. Check out the introductory video that explains why we created the Quirkles, or take a look at the sample book Gilbert Gas below.
In addition to the turkey and all the other fixings, if you’re like us, one of the favorite holiday dishes on your Thanksgiving table will be a gooey concoction of yams or sweet potatoes covered in melted marshmallows. Yum! While we certainly don’t recommend these activities at the dinner table, (although it may make for a more memorable event), here’s a couple of fun ways to burn some after-dinner calories and learn science concepts, too.
This month we offer from the Quirkles®, “Friction Fred’s Magic Spoon,” and from the Fuddlebrook Science Series®, “The Fuddlebrook Marshmallow Launch” (see video).
To demonstrate friction, wipe off any oil on your face or nose with a washcloth or paper towel. Touch the curved part of the spoon to the end of your nose. Move the spoon around until it sticks. Let go of the spoon very slowly. What happens? You’ve created friction that holds the spoon to your nose! This may take more than one try.
Now after that warm-up, let’s go for the big event! In the book, Freddie’s Dance Lesson, the concepts of motion and force are explored. With some wooden craft sticks and rubber bands, and a plastic spoon, kids can make their own catapult and launch the leftover marshmallows. Have a contest to see which marshmallow goes the furthest. Try other projectile objects (preferably not the leftover mashed potatoes). Which goes further? Why? And you thought football was the main competitive sport of the day!
In all seriousness, during this month of giving thanks, we would be remiss not to thank all of those who have supported us—by buying our books and materials and offering guidance, encouragement, and support. We have been incredibly blessed by you and for that we give thanks
Changing seasons, fall colors, and a fun holiday make for many teachable moments during October.
This month watch as Chloe, our budding young scientist, and Ms. Terri show you an activity called Gilbert Gas’s Oozing Bubbles. We love Halloween so we offer a spooky twist (Ghost Bubbles) but if you don’t celebrate the holiday, you can simply teach about states of matter. Our video shows a little more dramatic variation, but you can make the same point with a tall cylinder or glass, water, some dishwashing liquid, and the secret ingredient—dry ice (carbon dioxide in solid form). Kids love this really cool demonstration.
Want more ideas? Take a look at some of our other October videos from the past. These include Zany Science Zeke’s lesson on polymers. We’ve “Halloweened” it up by calling it Wanda the Melting Witch. It’s pretty cool regardless of what you name it! There’s also a variation of Vinnie Volcano’s Volcano (chemical reactions) we’ve modified to make a spewing pumpkin. Finally, try Ollie Oxygen’s Fun Foam (exothermic reaction) to make a Halloween or fall potion.
Fall and science just go together. Enjoy the season and the ideas we offer to make it full of fun, robust, and memorable learning.
Marshmallows are for more than just dessert! Burn some after-dinner calories and learn about the science concepts of force and motion, too.
Dry ice (carbon dioxide in solid form) not only helps reinforce the concept of states of matter but adds an element of fun to any fall party.
I really appreciate your ideas and support!!! I am amazed at the Quirkles series that you have created and know you all must be FABULOUS teachers!!!
Cindy, Lower School Science Coordinator, Suffolk, VA
It is very hard to put into words exactly how much I love the Quirkles. They totally changed my attitude about teaching science to kindergarten and first graders as an enrichment class in my school.
Lynn, Gifted Teacher, Springdale, AR