How long does it take bread to get moldy? Can you tell time using the sun? What is your reaction time? There are so many things to measure in the world around you. The ideas introduced in this book will help you perform exciting and fun experiments. Some will even give you ideas for your science fair. All you need are some simple materials, most of which can be found around your home, school, or neighborhood. You will then be ready to discover the world of time!

Introduction

Safety First

Time Before Clocks

Measuring Time with the Sun

A Water Clock

A Problem with Water Clocks

A Sand Clock

A Candle Clock

Heart Time

From Heart Clock to Pendulum Clock

A Pendulum Clock

Running Time

Time to Breathe

Quick as a Wink or a Squeeze

Time to Fall

How Fast Can You React?

Decay Time

Estimating Time

Using Time to Stop Motion

A Year of Change

Words to Know

Further Reading

Internet Addresses

Index

Fall 2003...

Sensational Science Experiments series. Happily unsensational, the books in this series present experiments that are generally simple, feasible, and interesting, such as estimating the height of skyscrapers. Materials are easily obtainable, and instructions are clear, augmented with relaxed illustrations and photos. More important, without fanfare Gardner encourages thinking about the experiments, supplying a few necessary answers at the end. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

September/October 2003...

Children learn science best when actively engaged in the physical manipulation of nature. This approachable, hands-on book offers over 18 such experiences aimed at children in the middle elementary school years. Teachers may take advantage of this material to augment their science curriculum, offer investigations to children showing a particular interest in science, or provide inspiration for science-fair projects. Parents could use the book on those occasions when bored children just have “nothing to do.” All of the content centers around time and its measurement. The requisite materials are easily found around the home or in the classroom. Safety precautions are adequately discussed, and the warnings that certain procedures require adult supervision are quite appropriate. Robert Gardner faced quite a challenge in writing this book. When encouraging a hands-on, inquiry approach to science, it is self-defeating to offer too many answers about what happens in each experiment or activity. At the same time, a book of this sort could be almost impossible to read if there isn’t some description of the content. Gardner does manage to walk this tightrope well. Each activity begins with a practical list of materials needed and ends with ideas for further exploration. This volume is not casual reading; it deserves and requires some attention as well as adult guidance and will be rewarding to those who make the effort.

Robert Gardner is an award-winning author of science books for young people. A retired high school teacher of physics, chemistry, and physical science, he enjoys writing, biking, and doing volunteer work.