Wednesday, August 3, 2016

TOPS Science: Radishes: A Review

So, we finished our 3.5 weeks of TOPS Radishes today!  I'm happy we did it and very happy to be done. 

Bee (7th grade) was able to do the activities independently.  Bug (3rd grade) needed a lot of help and sometimes seemed to find the projects stressful, even though I simplified things for him.  The fact that Dot is a busy toddler and constantly needs my attention probably factored into this. 

Overall, I was pleased with my purchase and felt it was a very good value.  We fit a lot of science into 3.5 weeks.  I was especially happy with the data collection and final graph that they made, a very good experience for both of them.  They are both really interested in plants now and are excited about planting a fall garden. 

As far disadvantages, some of the experiments were a little bit dry and boring, particularly for Bug at his age.  Also, our plants didn't have enough light, so I would recommend that anyone follow the instructions carefully make sure to find a very sunny window or use a fluorescent light. 

It was great doing science every day for a few weeks.  We really got a lot done.  With Bee's robotics and environmental science classes this fall, I feel like he probably doesn't need me to do more formal science with him.  For Bug, I'm going to look into some super fun science experiments for his age to do in addition to his robotics.  Maybe we'll continue with plant science since that is most interesting to me. 

Anyway, I do recommend TOPS Radishes!