Elementary Science Methods ll: Week #4

 

Elementary Science Methods 2: Week #4

    This week in lab we continued our conversation in a lecture about the forces on a rider as they ride down a slide. The forces on it include gravity and friction. We revisited our formative assessment from last week and discussed which situations where friction was present. Next, we began by studying how weight and gravity affect the speed of an object falling to the ground. We studied the difference between paper vs a tennis ball, a tennis ball vs crumpled paper, and a wooden ball vs metal ball. From here it helped us answer the question of why the rider's weight matters. Gravity pulls harder on objects with more mass. We ended with an investigation which helped me apply the learning I gained to the real world. 

    This week in the lecture we continued to review the factors and forces that affect a child on a swing. Throughout class, in breakout groups, we discussed the force on the rider and rider weight effect on it. We found that rider weight DOES NOT affect the period of a swing. We studied how Newton's First Law plays a large role in force by maintaining the speed and direction of motion. There will always be the same force on an object by the acceleration may vary. I found the simulations and active disccussions in class helpful in connecting my knowledge to every day life, and thinking about how I can apply it to the classroom.

    This week the press book talked about pendulums and energy. I found this topic helpful for my understanding of a child on a swing, which we have been discussing this week. Similar to our activity in the lab the press book describes the pendulum that swings back and forth and then to its original spot. There is a different energy pressing on each point of the swing. Potential energy is present when the pendulum is at its starting point. As it swings kinetic energy helps it move back and forth. I found the interactive simulation and formative assessments helpful in connecting my learning.