We began by making predictions about our new unit of inquiry based on what we had done so far. (Visiting the Science Lab, making butter and ice-lollies, using the terms investigate and observe, following the Scientific Method, using touch to describe objects) All the children predicted that we would be exploring How the World Works. We discussed possible concepts that would be a good fit for this unit and Ray suggested "We can do experiments to test things out" as a possible Central Idea. All great thinking before beginning our inquiry. We then explored our real Central Idea of Changes in matter affect our environment. Comments included "change happens when we do something" and "matter is everywhere". To further understand the word "matter", we visited the garden classroom where the children sorted objects in various ways before we settled on Solids, Liquids and Gases. They then used the Visible Thinking routine of I see, I think, I wonder about something they could see in or from the garden. The children deepened their understanding of the Scientific Method and applied this during our visits to the Middle School Science Lab where we integrated our learning about measurement in maths and the properties of matter. We asked: Do all solids have the same mass? What happens when we put different solids in water? Can the mass or density of water change? Do all liquids have the same mass? What happens when we put different liquids in water? Do gases have mass? We noticed that solids have a SHAPE that stays the same unless we do something to it. We extended this to liquids and gases and asked do they have a shape? On Friday, we visited our Preston campus to explore what happens when we mix solids and liquids together and change then change the temperature. We read the instructions, checked we had the correct ingredients and equipment and used measuring skills to follow the cookie recipe carefully. Alongside this learning, we continued to tune into new words and build our scientific and descriptive vocabulary. The children have embraced being scientists, breaking into a scientist song of their own creation and have been overheard making comments such as "what if we add..., what if we changed the temperature? What if we stirred..? How can we measure gas when we can't hold it? It melted, I see steam- that's a gas and so on, let's check, try this....It looks like..." All wonderful scientific thinking. Independent Student Action: Sara began making a list of solids, liquids and gases that she sees.
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AuthorGrade 2.1 are a class of 7 and 8 year old students who attend ISS International School in Singapore. We learn together and play together and enjoy sharing our discoveries with you. Archives
June 2019
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