Hi Michelle,
I think you have some really good questions here! As a person with multidisciplinary interests and backgrounds, I've constantly tried to help tear down some of the 'silos' we have built around school subjects.
2nd grade can be a great time to start thinking about measurement, which is a fundamental math skill that can be used in science. So instead of having her do 'random' science experiments, you can think about incorporating measurement. It's a bit above the level you need, but I used to work with middle school students on a project where they measured the water flow from their showers and calculated the energy cost of taking a shower in their home. It was a really great math refresher for them but also taught valuable science skills in energy.
Or, you can start incorporating data analysis. If she enjoys nature, maybe have her measure leaves using a ruler, or use weather data, and then do some math with it.
Math and science are a great pairing and it's never too early to spark her interest and skills in both!
Best,
Alex Dzurick
Center director, Mathnasium of Blue Bell (PA)
|