Week of 9/20

This week, students investigated and classified real leaves by using the "What Tree Is It?" website. Students had to investigate each leaf's characteristics, and then use these facts to find out the name of the tree from which each one came. We also discussed the importance of seed plants and how these plants have adapted in different ways to disperse their seeds.

Reminder: Although the leaf collection project is due on October 12, remember to start NOW! If you turn the project in next week, you will receive 10 extra credit points. If you turn it in the week of October 4th, you will receive 5 extra credit points. Remember that you can also receive extra credit for adding up to five more leaves to your collection!

Week of 9/13

This week, we wrapped up our scientific method unit and began our focus on plants. We looked at a chocolate chip cookie recipe in class and discovered that the only ingredients that didn't come from plants were salt and baking soda. We discussed how plants are classified into four main groups, and we identified the major characteristics of each one. On Thursday, students had the chance to examine and identify the basic properties of 5 different leaves. We further discussed these properties as we learned how to determine whether a leaf was simple or compound, its venation pattern, and its margin type.

On Friday, I introduced the students to their leaf collection project. The projects are due on October 12th, so students have four weekends to work at home! I will provide extra credit for projects that are turned in early, so don't delay! Please follow the project requirements that are stated in the green information packet.

9/10

We spent the week reviewing the scientific method and how to use it. Students had several opportunities to apply their knowledge of this process by examining different experiments (even cartoon characters helped us out!). Students are currently completing the "Ball Bounce Lab," which allows them to work through the 7 steps of scientific method on their own. Students will communicate their results by giving short lab presentations on Monday. Students will take their quiz over the scientific method on Tuesday. Also next week, we will finally delve into our first life science topic. We will begin exploring the wonderful world of plants!

We spent our second week of school reviewing some basic concepts that students learned last year. We focused on metric conversions and measuring mass, volume, and length. Our first lab of the year focused on the integration of both skills. We will be having a quiz over the metric system and measuring on Tuesday.

Next week we will begin discussing the scientific method in more detail, and students will be asked to write and design their own experiment based off of a question that I give them.