Science From Scientists

We had our first visit from the scientists, Ms. Courtney and Ms. Jenna, on Thursday.  They reinforced similar concepts we do in class about working together.  The activity they presented was about stacking cups using a string and elastic contraption.  You guys did such a great job.  It reminded me of "Saving Fred" in the way that everyone has one tool and you couldn't use your hands.  You had to work together in order to complete the challenge. 

Why did they do an activity about working together and following directions? Comment below and share your thoughts. 

Saving Fred and the Scientific Method

As an introduction to the Scientific Method, we performed an investigation about Saving Fred.  This activity is a great way to start because it involves teamwork.  Most, if not all, of our experiments this year have to do with group work.  It is important to make sure we can learn strategies about working together.  This activity helps!  The directions ensured that everyone would take part in the activity.  When this activity was first introduced, many of you thought it would be impossible.
The Problem:

Poor Fred went out on his boat, and wanted to go for a swim.  However his boat turned over and his life preserver got stuck under his boat!  The problem was to help Fred get his life preserver over his body so he can go for a swim.  Sounds simple enough?  However there were some restrictions.

* You could not touch Fred, the life preserver, or the boat with your fingers. Paperclips only. * Fred could not touch the water without being in his life preserver. *One paperclip per person, cannot share.  *No poking holes in any of the objects. The rest was up to you!   Some of us were able to stretch the life preserver and save poor old Fred by having each person use their paperclip inside the lifesaver while one person held Fred with their paperclip.   However, others tried their best, but the life preserver didn't want to to cooperate.  If groups did not a chance to save Fred, it was okay!  Mistakes are a part of learning!

What was the most challenging part about trying to save Fred??   

Comment below and share your experience!

Math Workshop

Chapter 1: Place Value
We had our first few days of Math Workshop.  It is off to a great start!  The routine takes a little while to get used to, but it seems like you have been enjoying it.  Mrs. Wiles-Stasko's class (pictured below) was able to go through two rotations on Wednesday and finish the next two on Thursday.  After we got through all four rotations, we came back together as a whole to discuss the next lesson. We were quickly able to transition into the centers again and go through two more rotations.  You followed directions and made the most of our time in class.  I was very impressed. I am looking forward to more productive days of workshop!  :)

 

M

Math Facts Center

 We played Multiplication/Division Bingo to practice math fact fluency.  

 A

At Your Seat Center

 We worked together on 'extra practice' problems to show what you learned. 

T

Teacher Time Center

 We previewed the next lesson in a small group. 

(The whiteboard is taking my place as 'teacher' while I take pictures)

H

Hands-On Center

 We played a game where each group member had to read clues to solve for the 'Mystery Number'.

  

Comment below and share your favorite center!