Why do children find it easier to learn a new language than adults? And does your ice cream really get bigger if you leave a tip? With questions like these, the Wetenschapsknooppunt (Science Hub) at Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) challenges children to carry out their own research. The updated Activity Book for children in grades 6, 7 and 8 of primary school is packed with experiments, tasks and facts that show that science is all around us. 'We want children to discover that doing research is fun and that science is accessible to everyone,' says programme manager Rowan Huijgen.
An even broader perspective on science
The Activity Book builds on last year’s successful edition but has been significantly expanded. The existing activities have been supplemented with new experiments and tasks, developed in collaboration with intern Sanae Bouhannouche and researchers from various academic disciplines at the university.
'By working with young scientists, we can give an even broader picture of what science is,' explains Rowan. 'Children who download the book are introduced to the diversity of university life and discover the wide range of subjects being researched.'
As well as little experiments, this year’s book also features fun scientific facts. For example, children learn why young brains often pick up a new language more quickly than those of adults, or that Rotterdam is home to people from over 170 different countries. These short facts spark curiosity and show how science helps us to understand the world better.
Conducting your own research
In the Activity Book, children get to step into the shoes of a researcher. They carry out simple experiments, gather information and draw their own conclusions. In doing so, they discover that research doesn’t just take place in a laboratory, but also in everyday life.
'Many people still think of science as people in white coats and complicated formulas,' says Rowan. 'With this book, we want to show that doing research can also be very accessible. You can explore scientific questions simply by going for a walk around the neighbourhood or when you go to buy an ice cream with a friend.'
By asking questions and seeking answers for themselves, children practise important research skills such as observation, comparison and critical thinking. This is in line with the mission of the Wetenschapsknooppunt (Science Hub), which encourages pupils to view the world through an inquisitive lens.
Download your Activity Book (in Dutch) here!
- More information
Are you curious? Do you like asking questions such as 'Why…?', 'How does that work?' or 'What happens if…?' Then the Dutch Activity Book from Erasmus University Rotterdam is just the thing for you! Download the Activity Book here
About the Wetenschapsknooppunt
The Wetenschapsknooppunt EUR (WK|EUR) brings science to the classroom through inquiry-based learning. In thought-provoking, stimulating and research-based education - for pupils aged 8 to 18, their teachers and our partners - we strive for maximum talent development.
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