The Surfing Scientist

The Basics

Site URL: http://www.abc.net.au/science/surfingscientist/
Who: Ruben Meerman
What: An arrangement of demos, lesson plans and videos spanning multiple science fields geared mostly to elementary students.
Why: Increase hands-on activities in the classroom
Cost: Free
Log-In Needed: No

Tricks

The tricks on this site are basically demos. Many have videos and pictures with the step by step instructions. Thorough written descriptions are also included. The downside is they are not indexed by topic, rather by the date they were added.

Conundrums

These pdf thought challenges require creativity and critical thinking to solve. They aren’t necessarily science related. Each pdf has a sheet with 6 copies of the problem for students to answer on. These would be good activities for all ages to use when there is some extra time in class.

Demos

These demos have pdfs and/or videos in addition to their step by step illustrated instructions. Each demo also has a thorough written explanation. The downside is they are not indexed by topic, rather by the date they were added.

Lesson Plans

Meerman’s lesson plans are complete pdfs with objectives, directions and teaching materials. Although written for a younger group, some could be adapted to fit older students. Again, they are not indexed by topic, but by date.