We use our sense of touch to determine an object’s texture. Scientists use texture to classify and describe objects. The following work was done in Pre-First.

After learning how aerospace engineers use their knowledge of force, motion, and energy, we did several experiments with rockets and helicopters. We took our roto-copters to the rotunda to test them. What happened when we reversed the blades, put the blades facing the same direction, and changed the weight? We returned to the lab to write our first lab reports.

After a lesson on starch, we tested for its presence in foods that we eat (cheese, rice, crackers, cucumber, potato, and flour). Iodine (brown color) will turn blue black when starch is present. Our biggest surprise?  The cheese turned dark blue. After checking the ingredients, we discovered that potato starch was added to the grated cheese. I researched why it was added and found that it is used to prevent clumping.

Oxidation occurs when an apple is cut open and the tissue is exposed to oxygen. Rust is also the result of oxidation. The lesson continued with information about how oxidation occurs within our bodies. We discussed the importance of a diet rich in antioxidants.

Many of the children had observed apples turning brown. Our experiment focused on determining the best liquid to prevent oxidation. We used the scientific method and had a control in this experiment. We concluded that we had the best results with salt water. Some of the children were surprised that the lemon juice did not work better because they had observed parents use lemon juice to prevent oxidation at home. We added a teaspoon of lemon juice to a cup of water. Would we have had different results with more lemon juice? Apple juice and Ginger Ale also had positive results.

Allie shared this information with her fifth grade class because they are studying the human body.

Second grade experimented with simple machines – pulley, inclined plane, screw, lever, wedge, and wheel and axle.

Fifth grade is beginning their study of the human body. These scientists will discover how our body is organized into tissues, organs, and systems. We will delve into the roles of each system and the organs that comprise them. I discovered this app that we will add to our iPads to enrich our understanding of our amazing bodies.

I am asking two students to help me care for our Science Lab animals each day. It will be a wonderful opportunity to have individual time with my students and to teach them the proper care of these animals. These were my first two helpers.