In 6^th grade we are learning about how scientists classify matter. We performed the amazing Bubblelcious Bubble Gum experiment where students predict whether the mass of chewing gum will increase or decrease over time chewed. The students mass the gum over set periods of time while chewing it. It is a disgusting experiment but the student’s never forget! They also realize just how much sugar is added to the gum and how quickly it dissolves.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The concepts of density and buoyancy were also explored in an activity called “Dunkin for Density” The students are challenged to get a film canister to sink, one to float and one to hang in the middle of an aquarium. Building on the formula Density = mass/volume the students calculate the density after finding the mass and volume of film canisters with various amounts of pennies enclosed in them. In order to achieve neutral buoyancy, density has to equal 1. Some students realize they need to make the mass equal to the volume and approach the problem-using math versus trial and error.

     

 

 

Seventh graders are studying bacteria and viruses. In order to appreciate the good bacteria in our lives we made yogurt. The students were challenged to come up with an experiment that proves the bacteria in the yogurt use the lactose in the milk. Students brought in soymilk, lactose free milk, grape juice and goat milk. You can read about their experiments and the results on their blogs, which are attached to this blog.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eight graders finished up their unit on the nervous system. During this unit I have each student research a street drug to find out how it affects the brain. I then invite a fellow teacher to come in and talk about his brother’s death from a heroin overdose at the age of 20. It is very powerful as he describes his brother and everything he has missed in his life. Many tears are shed and the students come away with a very real example of the devastation drugs can do to a family.