Ellie Behrens- Elementary Science Methods

  What did you learn this week? This week, we learned how to use particle models to help explain different scientific concepts like floating, sinking, density, and how substances spread out in a liquid or gas. These models are really helpful for visualizing things we can’t see with our eyes, such as how particles move and interact with each other. For example, we used these models to understand why temperate effects the speed at which particles move. One thing I found especially interesting was learning about wood at the particle level. When you look at wood microscopically, it’s really porous. This means it has a lot of tiny holes or spaces inside. This makes the particles more spread out and less dense overall, which is why wood is able to float in water. Even though wood might feel solid and heavy in your hand, it’s less dense than water because of all those air pockets inside. We also went more in depth about particles and atoms, which helped me better understand ...

What did you learn this week? One thing I learned is that density is mass divided by volume. Water has been defined as having a density of 1 g/ml. In the PressBooks reading, it explains that scientists did this on purpose when creating the metric system. They wanted to make it easy to calculate since water is one of the most common substances on earth. If something is less dense than water, it will float. If something is denser than water, it will sink. When discussing this, we went back to our coke float activity to try to understand it. We looked at the mass and density of the different size coke cans. The large coke was the only one that must have a density that is greater than 1g/ml. We know this because it was the only can that sank. We learned why things have different densities in the first place. This I because of particles models of matter. If the particles are close together and tightly packed, the object will have a higher density. If the particles are more spread ...

What did you learn this week? This week, I learned how different experiments can help us explore the concept of matter and how it behaves in different situations. We explore density, chemical reactions, and physical properties to provide us with a unique look into how matter interacts. I also learned how simple experiments with minimal materials can be great for sparking interest and building foundational understanding in elementary students. You do not need to have lots of expensive equipment and high-tech gear. You can create great, purposeful experiments with everyday items.  Another thing I learned this week is to be more thoughtful about how I would explain these science topics to a kid. I remember feeling flustered and shut down when previous teachers of mine have introduced a new word or concept but didn’t take the time to really explain what it meant. Speaking in a way that children can truly comprehend and connect with is a skill I want to continue to develop. How can you ...

  What did you learn this week? This week we learned more about natural selection, migration, mutations, evolution, adaptation, and more. It was interesting to learn about the difference between these. We participated in a predator/prey activity using beans to reinforce the concepts of natural selection. Additionally, we took our cumulative exam that covered units 1-3 in lecture on Thursday. I reviewed and relearned the concepts from previous life science units to prepare for the exam. I am excited to move on to our chemistry unit and continue to learn more! Lastly, we went on a field trip to School of the Wild. I really enjoyed the experience and learned a lot. It seems like a very beneficial and fun program for kids.  Which parts did you find clear and which were confusing? I found the concept of predators and prey clear, as well as the concepts from our previous units. When reviewing for the exam, I was able to refresh my knowledge easily. However, I found the difference be...