A common misconception is that science has the answer to everything but there are lots of questions that scientists just can’t figure out. In this video we are reminded about some Christmas puzzles that scientists around the world (or at least those at the Auckland University of Technology) are researching into.
This highly festive video could be used for a fun take on a Working Scientifically lesson about writing hypotheses. Divide the class into groups and give each group a Christmas question to discuss:
- How does Santa get around the whole world in one night?
- Why doesn’t anybody see Santa delivering presents?
- How does he fit down the chimney?
- How does Rudolph’s nose glow?
Ask them to suggest scientific hypotheses that could explain each one. Encourage them to be as silly and imaginative as they like, as long as they can back up their idea with a real science concept.
Ask groups to pick their best hypothesis and ask one student to present it to the rest of the class. Members of other groups can then ask them questions, prompting them to defend their hypothesis.
Watching the video will show the class the hypotheses that the real scientists came up with – did they think of anything similar? Do you have any budding professors of Christmasolgy in your class?
What species of tree is best for a Christmas tree and why are they health and safety hazards? Find the answer to these festive science questions by taking a look at Christmas science – The science of Christmas trees.
By Gemma Young for Smart Learning