The seventh graders have been studying the energy transformation involving potential/gravitational energy, kinetic energy and elastic energy in a variety of phenomena–a falling ball, swinging pendulum, and rolling can. As part of this study, last week they were challenged to design and construct a spool racer that could go the fastest and the farthest on a track and analyze the energy transformation that occurs within the moving racer. Look below for their initial ideas and thinking!
The 8th graders spent a couple of weeks researching, designing and constructing models to demonstrate and better understand the different kinds of movement at tectonic plate boundaries. Each group acted as the “expert” on their particular plate boundary and shared what they learned with their classmates during a gallery walk. Students took notes, asked questions and deepened their understanding of how the Earth is changing over time.
Periodically throughout the quarter, the 7th and 8th graders read and reflect upon a current issue in science. Recently, both classes read a recent article about climate change. As they read they looked for five statements they:
They, then, documented their reactions and thinking on notecards. Their notes were used to dialogue with others about their thoughts, feelings and ideas. Using a strategy such as this leads to deeper, richer conversations and provides an opportunity for all students voices to be heard.
