Olga's Elementary Science Methods 1/2 Blog

  Week 14 4/24/2024 (3 of the 5 slides we had from our flip video) This week our group got to investigate the question "Why do cold drinks get water droplets on the outside?"  After we looked at 3 types of simulations and discussed them with our group we learned that the water droplets come from the air, because oxygen carries water particles that are then mixed with the cold of the can to create the water droplets you see on cold soda cans.  I would like to incorporate flip videos in my classroom. It's a great way for students to show off what they have learned and can be used for more then just science. This uses so many area like art and technology which can make this lesson more engaging for students.

 Week 13 4/17/2024                                      This week in each group we designed our own way of showing the equation density= mass/volume. Then we made multiple investigations with M&Ms. One to answer the question of what color spreads the fastest and then we tested the water with sugar. Even tested what hot and cold water would do to the speed of the color spreading. After two rounds of tests, we noticed that hot water made the colors spread faster and the cold water spread the colors slower.  As a future teacher, it was interesting how we were given little instructions about how to carry out the experiment and we all did it differently.  Compared to the second round where we were able to talk to the teacher and reflect on what things we would do differently. I think this is a great way to allow students to learn from their mistakes while giving them autonomy to ...

 Week 12 4/11/2024 What did you learn this week? This week we practiced skills like observing, investigating, and collecting data. We got to test objects and determine the weight of the object and if it sinks or floats. My group tested a cork, aluminum foil, a candle, chalk, and marble.  What are new or remaining questions? Why did the chalk bubble when it was in the water? The small chalk took longer to sink in the water, why did that happen? How can you apply what you've learned to your teaching in the future? I liked how interactive and engaging this lab was and believe that it will benefit the student learning. Students learn better by being hands-on than talking to them mainly when working with young students. I can apply a lab like this in my classroom for upper elementary, 4th-6th grade. It allows students to have a bigger role in their education, 

 Week 11 In the lab this week we did different stations.   How can you apply what you've learned to your teaching in the future? I can apply all these activities in my classroom. Depending on the grade I teach I can do one or more a day. For younger kids, I feel like they would like the M&M activity, and for older students, I feel like they would have fun with the cold soda. What did you learn this week? I learned ice melts slower on wood and faster on stainless steel. This a great way for students to make predictions, record observations, and explain and ask questions.  What are new or remaining questions?  What grade levels would each activity best fit based on what kids can comprehend?