Sunday, September 13, 2009

1st Grade - Math & Science

Math & Science go hand in hand at all levels. This month, first graders applied their numeracy skills to an investigation on how the mass of grapes and raisins is different. We used the balance scales to compare the mass of grapes and raisins.

Instead of doing a direct comparison, we used the standard mass of a "teddy bear weight". This gave us a concrete example of comparing things using a common measurement unit.

Ask your 1st grader whether grapes or raisins have more mass.

Then ask them why? We love "why" questions in the science lab.

You could also ask them if bigger things always have more mass (think about a golf ball compared to a balloon).

Science Rules!

2 comments:

  1. This is an excellent write up. I find it so helpful to be given questions to ask my son about school. I've stolen "What was your favorite part" from Dora; but he's grown wise to me and now just says "Recess." This information gives me food for thought (pun intended) to ask open ended questions to learn more about how he spent his day. By the way, I was in the science room for a meeting on Friday. What a fun and interesting place!! Thank you! - Mary Cannon, Ben & Julia's Mom

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  2. You are very welcome. As a parent of two boys, I too struggle with getting information about their day and associated learning. Glad to hear this gives you another avenue for discussion.

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