in Science Class . . . Weeks of 3/5 and 3/12

4th Grade: Last week, students learned about the process of weathering, where earth materials are broken down into tiny pieces. We weathered pieces of granite by shaking them in a jar, producing smoother rocks and some sand. We also discussed other weathering forces, such as wind, water, waves, tree roots, ice, etc.

This week, the students will learn about the process of erosion. We will discuss formation of valleys such as the Grand Canyon, and use containers of clay and sand to view erosion occurring with water. Later this week, we will focus on the process of deposition, where materials that have been eroded land elsewhere.

• How did you weather your granite? Was it what you expected? Where can this process be replicated in nature?
  
• What is erosion? Where can erosion be observed? (Erosion is the process of earth materials being moved elsewhere. It can be observed on a huge scale when looking at the Grand Canyon, and on a small scale after the rain washes away soil from a garden or yard.)
• What is deposition? (It is the process of earth materials landing elsewhere, such as in a delta).

5th Grade: Last week, 5th graders made models of atmospheric gas molecules using Dots candy and toothpicks (a huge hit!) This was part of our introduction to our atmosphere, as well as a review of key components of our physical science unit (atoms, molecules, chemical formulas). Students also experimented with syringes and tubing, showing that air takes up space, moves, and can be compressed or expanded with a lot of effort!

This week, we'll be discussing atmospheric conditions, aka weather.