The Science Lab has been such a busy place the last few weeks. The 3rd graders have been learning about and practicing using the metric system. They have been measuring mass, volume, temperature, and making linear measurements, using many different scientific tools. They are learning about finding volume of irregular shaped objects such as rocks, using the water displacement method, and have been able to figure out the density from their calculations. Next week, the students will put all their measurement skills to work to observe and identify their own sunflower seed.
The 4th graders are busy investigating nitrate pollution and modeling how moving water can change the Earth's surface. The students tested tap water which contained no nitrates, and then tested the same water after running it through fertilized soil. They found out that the amount of nitrate dramatically increased. They also tested some water from one of Mrs. Z's fish tanks and found a high concentration of nitrates. Doing a little more investigating, they determined the probable cause as an accumulation of waste products from the fish. Mrs. Z. did clean the tank, and we did see a decrease in the nitrate level. Good science, kids! The 4th graders are also making river tables, and investigating how moving water can change the land surface. Next week, they will investigate what happens when salt and fresh water meet, like a river emptying into the ocean. You can see the results of these investigations and many others at the upcoming Science Fair in Mellowes Hall on April 19, 2012. Stay tuned for more information.
Ms. Keppler's and Ms. Landgraf's PK children had a visit from "Owlbert Einstein" last week. They asked some amazing questions about the owl, and made wonderful observations. One student even shared pictures that she and her Mom took of a screech owl they saw while they were out walking. "Owlbert" is still there in the PK classroom and I'm sure everyone is learning more about our resident owl.
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