Friday 14 March 2014

Weekly Update; March 14

Science class has temporarily turned into swimming lessons!  Until we get back into building, here are a few pictures from last week.  The students are really enjoying the building challenges, and the learning is evident in their testing, and redesigning.  They are all looking forward to getting back into it after swimming is done!

How much fun is styrofoam?  Yeah; LOTS of fun!

Problem solving together; well done ladies.

Time to test the water wheel; did it work?



Sunday 9 March 2014

Building Unit Update

After completing the theory of simple machines, it was time to start applying this with building projects.  This, of course, is the fun part!  There are four building challenges, each with up to four options.  Each project is designed to take one week, and require a new partner each time.  Part of the student expectation is to be able to collaborate with a partner, then be able to analyze what worked well, and what could have been done differently.  As scientists, we are reminded that the more often we try, the more we will learn, even though each project will not have the time to perfect.  Here are some pics of what we've done so far.

With two projects done, we need to pause, and make time for swimming lessons.  Not to worry though, we'll get right back at it as soon as possible during the last week of March!

When you are at the school in the next month or so, check out the large showcase between the office and the library to see all the projects completed so far, they are great!

The students have all done a wonderful job staying focused, and problem solving on the go with their challenges!

As we wait for swimming to finish, feel free to collect small boxes (from cereal, or granola bars etc.) and any other materials that the students can easily manipulate to send in.

Thank you!