Can you Lift a Classmate with ONE Finger!! YES!!

4th graders are learning how simple machines can make WORK easier.  We ALL would like to use less effort to make objects move.  After learning about these simple tools, we decided to put a lever to the test!!!  These kiddos tested various scenarios, but determined that by moving the FULCRUM closer to the load heavier items could be lifted with less EFFORT!!

 

Static Electricity is Electrifying!

5th Graders explored MOVING electrons with our Van de Graaff generator.  A Van de Graaff generator is an electrostatic generator which uses a moving belt to accumulate an electric charge. The students stood on a plastic crate (insulator) while touching the hollow metal dome (conductor).  This caused their bodies to become negatively charged.  Check out our results!!

Coding About Ecosystems!!

CODING is a FOREIGN LANGUAGE!!

Our 4th graders have learned EVERYTHING about ECOSYSTEMS!  It is time to Show What We Know!! We are using a coding app called PBS ScratchJr. Our challenge is to demonstrate the flow of energy in an ecosystem beginning with the sun that includes producers, consumers, and decomposers.  The kids have creative flexibility to design their own sprites within the program as long as the challenge is completed.

I honestly have been BLOWN AWAY  by the coding creativity of these KIDS!!  They understand the topic and are showing their own personalities in their coding!!!  Teacher’s DREAM!!

Thanks to the FREY Foundation for the supplies to engage children on this level!!