Understanding variables

A good science investigation will involve variables and controls. Without variables you really have nothing to compare your data to. However, it is important to focus on one thing (the manipulated variable) and keep all the other variables constant. Doing so will give your data validity!

In class we practiced how to choose the MV and RV by placing drops of water on a penny.

Homework: Complete questions from Drops on a Penny lab- Questions should be done on page 8 only. If you need more more add a page!

1. Compare your results with what you thought would happen before you completed the lab.
2. Looking at your data, did the variable you choose make a difference? Why or Why not?
3. Describe any variables that may have affected your results.

Making observations

Observations and inferences are a lot like facts and opinions. To practice these very important skills, we looked at 3 slides and inferred what happened to 2 different animals. Some of you had some interesting inferences!

Remember~ Observations are facts made using the 5 senses. Inferences are conclusions that you think happened based on your observation. It is important to not make opinions when making observations and even inferences.

Tomorrow we will get more practice in observations with a visit from Mr. Potatohead!

Lab safety

In class we shared ALL the things you should not do during a lab. Hopefully my entertaining lab skit and awesome safety video stick in your head during the year so no lab "mistakes" get made.

Tomorrow we will set up our science notebooks. Please bring all materials with you to class.

Homework: Identify 15 mistakes (your choice) from the picture given in class. Also, have your safety contract signed.


Scientific Summer summaries are due Monday, Sept 12. 

First day, DONE!

I enjoyed meeting all of you and look forward to a great year! Today was the typical "get-to-know" stuff. In class we brainstormed expectations of teachers and students. On Friday, we will be setting up our science notebooks. Students will receive a class outline of expectations and such then.

Homework: Complete student survey. Please have your spiral notebook or composition book by Friday.

Shake, rattle and roll!

I can now check off "feel an earthquake" from my "to do" list! I was sitting on the beach when the earth started to move.  It was definitely a strange experience.

Were you able to feel it? Luckily earthquakes are one of our topics of study this year so we will have plenty to talk about. Don'y worry too much, though. Earthquakes this strong along the East Coast are not that common.

Slow down, summer!

Back to school sales have started meaning that the start of school is quickly approaching.  If you are taking advantage of those back to school sales be sure to pick up the following items for science:

• Single subject spiral notebook OR composition book (80 pages minimum)
• Dedicated for science only, as this will become your text (details to follow)
• Colored pencils
• Highlighters
• Glue sticks or small bottle of white glue

Newton in the News

Due to technology issues I have not had a chance to update this blog. Cross your fingers the Internet continues working for daily class updates.

Two things we are working on:

1. Energy, Motion and Force Cafe ~ See links under Class Info. This is being done outside of school but I am available during lunch and afterschool for assistance. Due Friday, 12/3.

2. Newton in the News ~ See link under Class Info. This is being done in class on 11/22 and 11/23. Any work not finished in class will be finished outside of school. This assignmant is due by Tuesday, 11/30.