When a branch or even a stem is cut from a deciduous tree, why do the leaves stay attached to stems? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abscission Special cells attach deciduous leaves to stems. In autumn, decreased sunlight triggers the production of chemicals that breakdown the walls of the attaching cells. This results in the leaves falling off of the [...]

Winter is the season of the year between autumn and spring. For many regions on Earth, winter is a time of cold temperatures and in some places ice and snow. Besides observing the shapes of snow crystals, winter is a great time to study the celestial bodies because the sky is generally clearer. Look for [...]

Question: Why does “snow” in snow globes fall slowly? Answer: The “snow” can be plastic glitter or some even use finely ground egg shells. What ever is used for snow, it must be able to fall through the fluid that fills the jar (the globe). Fluid is a term used for a gas or a [...]

How to Make Different Kinds of Playdough—– Using Spicy Dough to Make Shapes—- What are the Physical Properties of  Apple-Cinnamon Dough Physical Properties of Apple-Cinnamon Dough Four of the five senses can be used in this science activity: vision, touch, taste, and smell. While tasting is not generally part of a science activity, this one [...]

Christmas Ornaments Spicy Cinnamon-Apple Snow Flakes Apple Stars Spicy Cinnamon-Apple Ornaments Materials needed and directions for making these spicy holiday decorations are given on this website. A link is also given to add a bit of science to this craft activity. ================================================================ Snow Flakes Directions for cutting hexagonal (six-sided) paper snowflakes from round coffee filters [...]

Thanksgiving Traditions * Foods   *Crafts  *Games FOODS Cranberry Relish “In some parts of the world, cranberries arrive just as autumn arrives. Perhaps that’s why they’re a traditional ingredient for autumn holiday foods. ” Recipe from Margaret Kenda’s Cooking Wizardry

Is there a Secret to Winning? Do You Have to Be Strong to Win? Why Does One Side of the Wishbone Break? Plastic Wishbones can be used to discover the answers to these questions and more. Through December 31, 2010, The Lucky Break Wishbone Co. is offering a 10% discount on purchases of their plastic [...]

Deciduous tree leaves fall in autumn due to a breakdown in cells connecting the leaves to stems. The decreased sunlight in autumn produces a chemical that destroys the connecting cells.

Thanksgiving is a US holiday originating from the Pilgrims’ giving thanks to God for supplying the resources they needed to survive the long winter in the new world. Among other customs, the pilgrims brought the tradition of the breaking of the wishbone. The basic rules for this event have not changed. Two people, each holding [...]