Thursday, November 18, 2010

Moon Phases with 5th Grade





The 5th grade is exploring astronomy spent the last class learning about the phases of the moon.  Using modeling clay, they learned about the relative sizes of the earth and moon.  Next, using "moonpops" they were actually able to create moon phases as the moon orbited around the "earth" (the student).

The Science of Polymers




In Kindergarten we are studying chemistry.  In a two part experiment, the students observed polymers with hydrophilic properties.  Imagine their surprise when the alligators tripled in size in just under a week!

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Owl Pellets in 2nd Grade

Second grade began their unit on owl pellets! Do you know what an owl pellet is? Ask a 2nd grade student for the answer!

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1st Grade tests Helicopter Design



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3rd Grade Mineral Field Guides




Third grade is beginning a unit on the properties of minerals.  They are testing different types of minerals to determine their unique properties.  Tests include streak, light, luster, magnetism and hardness.  The culmination of the project will be their own mineral field guide.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

The Size and Scale of the Solar System

 
If you wanted to create a scale model of the universe using a soccer ball as the sun, just how much room would you need?  The 5th graders were very surprised to find out that such a model wouldn't fit in the science room and, in fact, wouldn't even fit on our campus!  If you see a 5th grader, ask just how much space you would need!





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Special Visitors from The Academy of Natural Sciences





As part of their study of bird adaptations, the 2nd grade was treated to a presentation Michelle Bassler from the Academy of Natural Sciences.  Michelle brought three owls and a red-tailed hawk.  The students were able to see these magnificent bird up close and learn about the adaptations that raptors have that make them such efficient predators.