Little Scientists

Since 3rd quarter started we have been diving into our science units.  Our first unit was all about understanding the scientific method.  We discussed the steps of asking a question, forming a hypothesis (or making a prediction), carrying out an experiment, collecting data, and reporting the results.  We did 2 experiments in this unit to practice the scientific method.

In our first experiment we asked the question: "How can we keep bananas fresher longer?"  We set up 3 bananas: 1 in the fridge, 1 in a paper bag, and 1 with plastic wrap around the stem.  The students made their hypothesis. We observed and collected data over the course of a week.  The results between the banana in the bag and the plastic wrap were not that different.  Although once peeled, the banana in the plastic wrap looked the freshest.  The banana in the fridge became brown and mushy very quickly.

In our second experiment we set out to see if we can make gummy bears grow.  We weighed and measured each bear before putting them in water, sugar water, lemon water, and vinegar water.  We were amazed to find the next day just how much the bear in the vinegar water had grown.

Our next science unit is about engineering.  We are learning that engineers use creative ideas to solve problems.  We've also learned that engineers may create new things or take things apart to see how they work.  Our first task was to make a spaghetti tower using only 30 noodles and 25 marshmallows. The students were placed in groups of 3, and had 2 science class periods to work.

During and after building we had a great discussion about what went well and what was frustrating.  The students noted that when they used encouraging words to each other, they were able to be more creative and more productive.  When they were frustrated with each other or the project, they were not as creative or able to move forward.  We stressed how many ideas didn't work, but you just try something new.  This is such a great lesson that failure happens, but you can also continue to try a new idea.  At one point I heard a student say to her group, "Of course we can do this!  Engineering is all about problem solving!"

We noticed that some groups began building with little trouble on day 1, but found day 2 to be more frustrating because of the limit in supplies.  We also noticed that other groups were more productive on day 2 because they needed more time to think through their ideas. We talked about how these observations of working together can be used in so many parts of our day and lives, not just when we are building spaghetti towers.