We had a lot of excitement this morning with yet another engaging science lesson. Today's topic was layers and how more layers make a structure stronger. Students were given a Kleenex and were instructed to pull it apart, to show that it is made out of two layers. They discussed why it is better with two layers instead of one. Then, a little experiment took place with a tin can, a tissue paper covering the top, and an elastic band to hold it in place. Then, students took turns placing metal washers on top and we counted to see how many washers it took before the tissue broke. We tried the experiment with 1 layer of tissue and then a double layer. Then, the students got to 'experiment' with a very exciting structure that is made out of many layers-- a piñata! Each student was able to have two tries at breaking open the piñata (three hits per turn) before the candy was freed! We then took a look at what different layers were used to make the piñata structure.
There were some interesting activities in math as well. We read a story called Math at the Airport, which is part of a series that demonstrates how math is everywhere! Next, we reviewed what length and height are. I had placed posters up on the board before the recess and one of the students clued in right away that we were going to work on measuring. Yes!
I demonstrated how to measure some items using snap cubes and then students worked on measuring a toque, shoe, mitten, and a scarf.
Measuring the scarves was a great adventure because they were SO long! One was 101 cubes long!
For PWIM, we did a See/Say/Spell using funny voices (deep, high pitched, spooky, sassy to name a few). Then we discussed the difference between fiction and non-fiction books. I read part of a non-fiction book about dump drunks and then a fiction cardboard book called I am a Dump Truck. We read a book together that had no pictures called I See Construction. Each student had their own copy and read aloud together. Their job was to then draw the pictures to match each of the sentences.
We made it to the 6th story from The 7 Habits of Happy Kids. This time the characters had to use each of their talents to work as a team so that they could win a soccer game. The habit is synergize, but we broke it down to working together is better and discussed why that is.
I'm excited for a new addition coming soon to our classroom- a Smart Board!! I decided it would be best to move our desktop computer to a spot that would be closer to the Smart Board, so I did some rearranging after school today.
A new reading space.
Our main group discussion area is ready for the Smart Board!
Now that I've moved that big cupboard, the students will have easier access to the art and writing center, as well. I am hoping that this will increase the writing and creating that happens during their free choice time.
It will be interesting to see how the students react when they get to school on Friday! :)
Stay tuned....
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