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Pre-k, Kindergarten Grades  Lesson 45 minutes

"Scaffolded Science Spectacular: Experiment Extravaganza!"

Esther A
K-2.AF.6.2
K-2-ETS1-2
K-2.AF.6.3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage young students in hands-on exploration and experimentation, fostering their natural curiosity and sensory awareness. Through designing and conducting simple science experiments, students will develop foundational inquiry skills and an understanding of cause and effect. This experience encourages collaboration, creativity, and communication, allowing students to express their observations and reflections while building confidence in their ability to explore and describe the world around them.

Learning goals

Students will explore and describe the world using their senses, observing changes when materials are mixed. They will develop inquiry skills by designing and testing simple experiments, using sensory language to articulate their observations. Through collaboration and reflection, students will refine their experiments, enhancing communication and critical thinking skills. Students will create visual and written products to demonstrate their understanding of material properties and sensory experiences.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] K-2.AF.6.2 - Use tools and/or materials to design and/or build a device that solves a specific problem or a solution to a specific problem.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] K-2-ETS1-2 - Develop a simple sketch, drawing, or physical model to illustrate how the shape of an object helps it function as needed to solve a given problem.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] K-2.AF.6.3 - Generate and/or compare multiple solutions to a problem.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a 'Material Mixing Mural,' using materials from their experiments to visually display the changes and reactions observed. They will also develop a 'Senses Exploration Book,' illustrating and describing their sensory experiences from the experiments. Additionally, students will assemble a 'Mixing Magic Mobile,' featuring colorful representations of the materials mixed, with notes describing the sensory changes observed.

Launch

Begin with a 'Sensory Exploration Day' where students rotate through stations using their senses to explore materials like textures, sounds, and scents. Follow up with a 'Mixing Magic Morning' where students experiment with mixing safe, colorful materials to observe changes, documenting findings through drawings. These activities will spark curiosity and set the stage for designing their own science fair experiments.

Exhibition

Organize a 'Mix and Marvel' event where students pair up with older students or community volunteers to demonstrate their experiments, explaining the materials used and the changes observed. Create a 'Science Sensation Gallery' where students display their experiment results and artwork inspired by their observations, inviting parents and teachers to tour the gallery. These exhibitions provide students with opportunities to share their learning and discoveries with a broader audience, fostering a sense of accomplishment and community engagement.