October 29 - November 2

Here's what happened in the Science Lab this week:

• Kindergarten: We used our best estimation skills to predict how big around my pumpkin was, and then we checked our estimations. We also measured my pumpkin in a non-standard unit (beans) and did a quick sink/float investigation. Home extension: allow your student to practice measuring in non-standard units by providing some random objects to measure (pencil, shoe, book, table, etc.) and a non-standard measuring tool (beans, paper clips, pretzels, etc.).
• 1st grade: We spent the whole hour conducting a float/sink investigation. We tested lots of objects and learned that the shape (not necessarily the weight) influences whether it will float or sink. Home extension: give your student a piece of clay, playdough, or aluminum foil and allow him/her to experiment with different shapes to see what floats and what sinks.
• 2nd grade: Due to the Storybook Character Day parade and classroom presentations, we had a shortened lesson today. Nevertheless, we learned about salt water and fresh water on this day. We very briefly got to discuss the differences between the two types of water and some facts about surface tension, and we did a couple of quick investigations with the water. Home extension: allow your student to mix up his/her own batch of salt water and perform his/her own experiments with it.
• 3rd grade: We finished our matter unit by conducting experiments to make paper clips float in water. Home extension: ask your student to show you how to make a paper clip float in water. He/she can also explain a little about surface tension.
• 4th grade: This was week 1 of our living organisms adaptation project. Students were asked to take this hour in the Science Lab to research more about adaptations and to begin planning their project. Next week, students will use kitchen/art/craft resources to create their very own Texas organism with adaptations. Although I do have aluminum foil, some tissue paper, beans, toothpicks, feathers, and construction paper, supplies are limited, so students are welcome and encouraged to bring additional craft supplies from home next week. Home extension: talk to your student about his/her living organisms adaptation project. Ask him/her where his/her organism will live and what kind of plan he/she has created. Discuss the adaptations that organism will have and why it would be necessary for it to adapt that way.

As a reminder, the first annual OUES Super Science Sale will take place from November 26 - 30. You can read more about this sale and its parent volunteer opportunities by clicking HERE. You can also view the paper flier (sent by Heath Scientific) that lists some available items/prices and the animal purchase permission slip by clicking HERE.

Enjoy your weekend!