Investigating the Natural World Through Forces and Motion

Students were introduced to the scientific writing process by conducting hands-on experiments related to forces and motion. We laid the foundation by studying properties of materials and moved into concepts such as friction, gravity, kinetic energy, and momentum. Throughout the writing process, second graders practiced asking questions about how the world works, making hypotheses, planning procedures, conducting trials, and analyzing the results of their experiments. This work was done collaboratively with lab partners and shared as well amongst the whole class during their writing workshop. 

The current math unit on measurement has aligned with our science unit, allowing students to integrate their math skills while conducting experiments and recording quantitative data in their lab reports. Second-graders explored measurement using both traditional and non-standards tools to help understand linear measurement. Students made estimates of object lengths and then accurately measured them. They learned that it is important to make a choice on which measurement tool would be most helpful to measure an object. It may be an inchworm ruler, teacher’s foot, headstring, yardstick, or a Giant Feet equal to 3 feet. We also learned the systems for standardizing our measurements. As scientists, we made a hypothesis and then we were able to determine whether a car would travel farther on a rug or bare floor.  Students collaborated with their lab partners to use the tape measurement tool to accurately record these specific measurements. Well done!

In science students began studying the properties of materials, such as textures, flexibility, and absorbency. Students applied their knowledge of these properties to the car ramp experiment as we noticed the car travelled different distances depending on the surface. For example, the carpet was bumpy and created more friction, slowing the car down. The bare floor was a smooth surface, which allowed the car to build more momentum. Even the textures on the ramps we built affected the distance the car travelled. 

Second graders will continue experimenting as scientists and deepening their understanding of forces and motion cross-curricularly! Look out for their published lab reports coming out next month!