My students need hands-on practice to measure the mass and volume of cubes to understand density. Also, they can observe the properties of metal vs. wood cubes.
I would like my students to see themselves as scientific explorers, empowered to seek out answers through hands on activities! The biggest challenge in getting them there is that we do not have alot of the materials that they need in order to do hands-on investigations throughout the school year.
My students really enjoy learning Science when they have materials to do hands-on investigations about the concepts that we are learning.
Unfortunately, our school does not have an ongoing budget that includes the cost of materials to perform alot of the labs that we would like to do.
My Project
Using the metal blocks and wood blocks that I am requesting, the students will be able to observe the varying properties between these 2 materials. Students will predict what would happen if they put an ice cube on each type of block and usually they are surprised to see how quickly the ice cube melts on the metal blocks compared to the wooden blocks.
Additionally, the density blocks will allow the students to measure the mass and volume of these cubes so that they can calculate the density for each block. Then, they can check to see if their calculations are correct based on whether the blocks will float or sink in water.
This project will make a difference because the students have difficulty understanding ideas if they cannot visualize these concepts in action.
Studying density and the properties of matter is not always an exciting topic however once students have the hands-on opportunity to perform the measurements and see the results, they are more motivated to learn. We need more students to be excited about Science and when they have the chance to do a hands-on investigation, they are!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Inglish and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
