Math and Science

Math and Science

Students have spent the past month working with integers and learning about plants.

Using a number line, integer chips, hot air balloon analogies and real-life examples, they have developed an understanding of how positive and negative numbers relate and created a set of rules for how to add and subtract using both positive and negative numbers. Creating word problems from popsicle sticks and an elevator analogy, solving magic squares of equal sums, finding the important information needed to solve a problem, using card games to challenge their knowledge, and rolling a die and a coin repetitively to build the highest sum were some of the methods we used last week to deepening this knowledge. Ask them to show you how to 'Walk the Line', add and subtract on a number line or use two different coloured items to show how positive and negative integers cancel each other out and how to create 'zero-pairs' when subtracting. Challenge them to a card game adding or subtracting integers. Playing cards and other games at home that involve number sense and strategy can improve mathematical reasoning.

Working in groups, students were provided 'Mystery Seeds' and given the challenge of discovering how best to make that grow.  Learning the difference between control, manipulated and responding variables enabled students to discover the ideal conditions their 'Mystery Seeds' require to grow and thrive. In addition, they have been researching a variety of plants and formulating presentations to present to both classes to teach everyone about these plants. Some students have been developing plans to build structures that are lightweight and can hang from the walls in our classroom or use the existing space to house the incredible plants they are growing.

Last week we all read the labels of our clothing to discover the different fabrics that are used to make the clothing we wear. In pairs and groups of three, students learned about fabrics, such as linen, viscose, polyester, cotton, rubber, nylon, spandex, hemp, and leather. They discovered what these fabrics are, where they come from or are manufactured, what they are most commonly used for and the environmental impact of each type of fabric. The importance of sustainability regarding production, manufacturing, use, and disposal led to critical discussions and connections. Discussing current events involving improvements companies are trying to make to decrease their environmental impact can connect the outside world to the work we are doing in the classroom.

If anyone has any tall planters, wall planters, sun lamps or any other plant growing equipment at home you are not using and you would like to contribute these to the classroom, feel free to send them to school. The students love the gardening they've been doing and are so excited to see their plants grow and thrive!