Science with Harry Potter: A Thematic Study for Teens

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, the first book in the popular series by J.K. Rowling, was published in 1997 – twenty years ago! Since then the stories of Harry, Ron, and Hermione along with their peers and mentors have fascinated people of all ages.

Engaging teens in lessons can often be a challenge, even for the most experienced educators. For an immersive summer science experience, I have put together a series of interactive, hands-on Harry Potter/movie-themed lessons and activities that are sure to grab the attention of middle and high school students.

The Science with Harry Potter hopscotch will feature a succession of scientific topics presented to students through hands-on activities and corresponding readings and video clips.

“I like science and I love gym. Oh, and I like art, but I’m really bad at it. I’m just a terrible drawer. I can’t draw a circle. Even with a ruler, I can’t draw a straight line.” ~ Daniel Radcliffe

As students work – independently or in small groups – to become familiar with many common magical plants and animals, they will create an illustrated field guide. Additionally, students will learn about the basics of acid/base chemistry (Marauder’s Map), genetics and trait prediction (parseltongue trait in families), force and projectile motion (motion of the thrown remembrall), and discover a few of the tools for navigating a course (star charts and sextants).
I will also provide suggestions for additional coursework and readings for students interested in following a topic in more depth.

Join me each day this coming week as we dive into each course:

Herbology (Botany)

Care of Magical Creatures (Zoology)

Potions (Chemistry)

Alchemy & Divination (Geology)

Magical Motion (Physics)

If you have younger children, you won’t want to miss Erin’s series, Harry Potter Fun School at Royal Baloo.

For more Harry Potter themed lessons, crafts, and homeschool ideas, check out the iHomeschool Network’s Harry Potter Hopscotch.