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Last week in Science by Email we looked at the heatwave that has affected much of Australia. In this country, where heatwaves go, bushfires often follow.

In Australia, the year is off to a sizzling start. Much of the continent has been sweltering under a record-breaking heatwave. Let’s look at what’s causing these extreme temperatures.

Although sand is a solid, did you know it can behave like a liquid? Find out how by trying this activity.

How would you find out where to strike gold? Turns out termites might have the answer.

Do you have left over fruit and vegetable scraps? One day you might be able to use them to clean up the environment!

Say cheese and flash that beautiful smile. You should be proud of those choppers; after all, teeth have been around for nearly half a billion years.

It’s a small molecule, made of oxygen and hydrogen atoms in a V-shape. It’s colourless, odourless and expands when it freezes into a solid. It’s water, and without it, we wouldn’t be here.

You’re at home, sitting on the couch. Outside, there is thunder and lightning. You notice something at the window: a strange, glowing ball of light. As you watch, it appears to pass through the glass. It wanders through the air before abruptly disappearing.

Looking for something to do this weekend? Play the time walk board game. You can download and print the instructions, game pieces and  board. Let us know what you think! If you’re after more science fun for kids, subscribe to Double Helix magazine!

At school you receive report cards to keep track of how you’re going and to identify strengths and weaknesses. Report cards are good for students – what about our oceans?