During our first senses lab, kindergarten scientists learned that scientists use their five senses to make observations. Sometimes they use tools to enhance their sense of sight, like magnifiers, microscopes, and telescopes. We learned how to use a hand lens (magnifying glass) correctly, so that we could magnify objects.
One of my fourth graders adopted the fish we had in our tank before school was out. I redid the tank and purchased glofish. They are beautiful schooling fish! I plan to add the other colors soon. Currently, we have two yellow, two orange, and a purple glofish. Glofish are genetically modified fluorescent fish.
After studying bridge designs and vocabulary in their math classes, fourth grade engineers were tasked with creating bridges. Collaborative groups were given Popsicle sticks, pipe cleaners, bendable rods, and glue. The students applied math, science, and engineering skills to create the designs below.
First graders reviewed the concept that white light consists of the visible spectrum (rainbow colors). Black is the absence of color. A tint is created by adding white to any color thereby making it lighter (pink or gray). A shade is created by adding black to any color, thereby making it darker. We used the primary colors to create the secondary colors with color fizzers. Then we folded dippity dye paper and dipped the corners and sides into red, yellow, and blue food coloring. When we opened the paper, we each had a unique design and the colors mixed to create orange, green, and purple.
