The Lightning Leopards are Scientists!

For the past few weeks, the Lightning Leopards have been wearing their Scientists Hats. As part of our Forces and Motion unit, we have been conducting different experiments to test the effect of different factors (force, weight and friction so far) on motion.

The very exciting thing about this unit is not just that we get to do experiments (though that is definitely very fun). It's the fact that through scientific experiments, we have been able to learn so many other things. In order to present our data, we've had to learn how to create bar graphs and pictographs and more importantly, how to read the data that they represent.

Similarly, in order to be able to understand and conduct an experiment, we've had to explore what expository writing is all about. We've learned how it's different from the narratives we've been working on, and how exactly you need to structure an expository piece.

The beauty of integrating units of inquiry is that you get a richer, more meaningful learning experience. Life isn't separated in very neat compartments where you read for a little while, then do math, then do something else. It stands to reason that we shape our school day to reflect real life as much as possible. That's what has been happening with this unit, and it's been really rewarding watching the Lightning Leopards bring in all their knowledge and apply it to think scientifically.