Models and Designs
Science News
Dear Parents, Our class is beginning a new science unit using the FOSS Models and Designs Module. We will assume the roles of scientists as we try to figure out what hidden systems look like and how they work. Then we will change into engineers as we try to design self-propelled carts from simple construction materials. We have an interesting and exciting couple of months ahead. In this module, children learn about scientific models. A scientific model explains a natural system or process that is not totally accessible to direct investigation. An example from geology is the ongoing struggle to figure out what our planet is like from crust to core. Each advance in scientific technology provides scientists with more information, and the model for the structure of Earth is refined. But it’s still a model—no one knows for sure whether it’s correct, because no one has been there for a firsthand look. In class we will be confronting less-imposing systems, but the processes of gathering evidence, sharing ideas with peers, creating models, and modifying them based on additional evidence are the same. We will learn how to think productively about the unknown. After we tackle models and expand our points of view and ways of thinking about systems, we will become engineers who design and create products. We will be designing and building carts from sticks, paper clips, wire, rubber bands, and the like. With each passing investigation students face more demanding engineering challenges, and I expect to see a lot of creativity brought to bear on the problems. From time to time I will be sending home/school connection sheets home with your child. These describe activities for the whole family, to share a little bit of the fun we will be having at school with models and designs. If you have any questions or comments, call or come in and visit our class. |