9/28/12 Update

We have started our study of the Earth, the Moon and beyond!  This includes learning about the rotation and revolution of the Earth, what makes the seasons on Earth, how the Earth and Moon compare and other parts of our Solar System.  This week we did an investigation/demonstration of how the Earth rotates while it revolves around the Sun and also how the moon is involved.  It required some coordination!  We've also been demonstrating how the Sun affects our planet - thanks to Shummy, nicknamed "Sunny" this week as he shines the light of the sun on Earth for us.  Next week, we will make craters - should be interesting and a little messy, but that's the whole point, right?

Throughout our studies in Science this year, we will be emphasizing the scientific method - the steps taken to answer questions.  This method will take them through all of their Science studies, so they really need to have a strong handle on the steps involved.  At this point, no test is scheduled yet for Chapter 1 - I will see how far we get after the holidays and give at least one week's notice prior.  The children will have vocabulary and notes in their notebooks and I encourage them to read over their notes a few times a week to keep the concepts fresh in their minds.

Enjoy Sukkot and please email me with any questions or concerns at mlbuster@torahacademy.org

Methods of Science Test 9/13/12

Our first test of the year will be this Thursday.  The children are bringing home their study guides today and I'm recommending they also bring home their books to study.  We've discussed the importance of studying ahead of time and not waiting until the last minute to cram, which seldom works.  I sing this song at home all the time too - who knows if it's working!  For your reference, I'm including the information from the study guide here as well, just in case.  Please email me with any questions at mlbuster@torahacademy.org

Be able to define the following terms:

Microscope                              balance                           investigation

Inquiry                                    experiment                     scientific method

Variable                        

·        know the steps, in order of the scientific method and be able to explain each step 

(text pg. 20-21)

·        if given an inquiry skill, be able to explain what it means (you don’t have to memorize the list, but you should know what each means)                         text pg. 12-15

·        explain why safety in the science lab is so important (text pg. 8)