Thursday, June 2, 2011

Electricity Investigations

Throughout our electricity unit third grade scientists have asked thoughtful questions. Yesterday we sorted our questions into two groups. Some of the questions were "researchable." That means we could find the answers by asking someone, searching on the internet or searching in a book. The questions we were focusing on were "testable." That means third grade scientists could safely find the answers by using scientific equipment.

Tomorrow third grade scientists will work in groups to prepare to answer some of those questions. They will figure out which materials they will need to use. They will describe the set up and write the directions so that any other scientist would be able to repeat the investigation.

Finally, they will give it a try. Third grade scientists can use many different size batteries, different kinds of wire, light bulbs, motors, and switches to answer their questions. I look forward to seeing how they will collaborate.

Ask your third grader about their questions for an electrical investigation. :o)

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