Ask A Scientist

I love the idea of being able to get questions answered.  Since the Internet and now phones that can search for answers while on a road trip, I often say, "let’s find out!" when someone asks something we are not sure about.  This is a great way for children to continue their curiosities and find out more about things they find interesting.

I asked:

I wonder what in a cell controls how cells change during dormancy or hibernation.  What tells the cells to slow or stop growth?  Do the cells just naturally react and slow or change because of the body’s or plant’s change in temperature and nutrient in take?

Unfortunately, I did not get a response yet.  However, the experience was not a total waste of time so far.  Being able to search for my question led to some other information such as the biological clock.  That is something that scientist do not know much about. 

While I am still waiting for Ask A Science to respond, I tried a different site that offers to answer questions as well.

http://madsci.org/submit.html.

Using a site where you can find out questions is a great resource.  Students often may get to a block with their curiosities and stop trying to find out.  Having resources that allows student to ask something they are wondering allows them to take charge of their learning and go further with something they are wondering.  Having student try this activity in the classroom would be a great experience.  Including a step to research their question first and then ask what they still do not know teaches the idea of being lifelong learners.  They will be able to take the experience and use it as they have more questions.