In week one, we began learning about the scientific process and why science is important to our lives. We then performed a hands on experiment to apply the scientific method in real life and to explicitly discuss how there are multiple ways to approach a problem. Students made observations, predictions, developed a hypothesis and thought of ways that they could extend their experiments. For the experiment, students had to rescue Fred, the (gummy) worm from drowning after his boat capsized. Using only paperclips, students had to figure out how to flip Fred's boat over, extract his life jacket, and slide the jacket onto Fred. Students were not allowed to touch Fred, or let Fred fall onto the table. Students worked through some frustrating moments, began to think outside the box, and realized they could manipulate their materials to better serve their purpose. They also realized that working together was more effective than working alone. Students finished by documenting each step of the problem solving process.
|