In the Science Lab, we continue to do hands-on experiments that help students learn about the world around them. In Kindergarten, we’re learning about living things and what they need to survive, and how to help our environment. Soon, we’ll be planting sunflowers in the school garden. First graders are learning how to make sounds with vibrations, and what happens to light when you shine it through various materials. Second graders are learning about pollinators with a fun simulation in which they hunt for pretend pollen in our garden. Third graders were archaeologists, and used fossils to learn about how environments can change over time. Fourth graders are making models of human body systems, including a model of the human eye that works a lot like the real one. Fifth graders are happy to start chemistry experiments (even though I won’t let them blow things up.) Sixth graders are exploring Newton’s Three Laws of Motion with some inertia, force and acceleration challenges. Soon, all classes will be going out to the garden with me to plant seeds, learn about our perennials, and look for pillbugs.
Recently I was explaining my job to someone I just met, and they said, “That sounds amazing! I wish my school had had that!” We are so lucky to have the Science Lab at OPS.