The In-Touch Science program emphasizes the fun of manipulating supplies and equipment and engaging in the scientific process of discovery. These hands-on projects and activities are also within the capability of most children who have special needs. For grades 3 to 5, the program helps children communicate what they observe and learn, understand the science connection between two fields of study, and recognize science concepts in daily experiences. The 10 activities show children how each of five science concepts relates to chemicals and our environment. Session 1 introduces the concept of dispersion.
Children disperse fat droplets in milk to create swirling colors.
They then consider whether dispersion is desirable when cleaning up an oil spill. The 10 activities show children how each of five science concepts relates to fibers used for textiles and animals. Session 1 illustrates the importance of microstructures, small physical features that the eye can not see. Children work wool fibers into felt fabric and in the process discover that wool fibers have microscopic scales. They understand how the tiny barbules on feathers help the bird fly.