Evaporation and Condensation

We had a blast exploring condensation and evaporation with chemistry students from L.S.U.  Evaporation and condensation are two processes by which matter changes from one state to another.  We loved creating vapor clouds and shrinking balloons in liquid nitrogen.  It was interesting to observe the amount of liquid present inside the balloons once they had been in contact with the liquid nitrogen. Several of my friends concluded that they would like to become a chemist when they grow up. What a great day filled with so much learning and fun investigating in K!

Learning about Biodegradable Products

     Before our Thanksgiving break, we brainstormed materials used in packing the gifts that so many of us ship and look forward to receiving from family and friends during the holidays.  We discussed the packing peanuts (Styrofoam) as one type of packaging material.   We conducted a simple experiment to test and see if Styrofoam is good for the environment.  I for one have been guilty of throwing the packing materials out immediately upon taking the gift out of the box.  We predicted what we thought would happen  if we added H20 to the peanuts.  We used regular Styrofoam peanuts and compared and contrasted them to starch peanuts.  When immersed in water (H20), as my friends like to call it, the starch peanuts (Starch Tech), immediately began breaking down and dissolving.  After, observing and attempting to break down the Styrofoam peanuts with H20 and other materials we had on hand, such as vinegar and alcohol, we concluded that the Styrofoam peanuts did not dissolve or disintegrate which means that they wouldn't be a "friend" to the environment.  We came to the conclusion that we can help the environment if we use the starch peanuts, when we have a choice.  I introduced the word "biodegradable" to my friends.  I will continue to build upon this and we will continue discussing what products will biodegrade, when we return from break.
     I have discovered that when I immerse my friends in science for an entire year, they develop a love of it, as well as becoming excellent problem solvers and critical thinkers; this in turn greatly enhances their reading and math abilities.  Until next time, wishing you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Experimenting with Dry Ice

A few weeks ago, my friends had a blast investigating dry ice and making ice cream using liquid nitrogen.  When dry ice is placed in warm water, it immediately, starts to turn into carbon dioxide gas and water vapor, forming a really cool cloud, which is safe to touch and feel.  My friends were fascinated observing how the cloud spilled over the edge of the bowl.  We discussed how dry ice can be used as part of theater productions and performances to create a foggy effect. Through the process of investigation, I attempt to scaffold my friend's learning by asking questions,
providing hints and modeling, as needed. Research has shown that experiences with new types of activities or stimulation can generate growth in the brain within only a few hours after the experiences begin.  By giving my students varied activities and many new experiences, I feel confident that they are making new "brain connections".   I hope you can take time to celebrate all the new learning and growth that takes place this amazing year.  
 

*Important Reminder: Dry ice will burn.  Only an adult using protective gloves should handle dry ice. The clouds are harmless, however students should never directly touch dry ice. 
 

Going Green is So Much Fun!

 It's so exciting to be a small part of North Live Oak’s CPS project, Conserve, Preserve and Serve.  As part of the project our school has entered the "Go Green Challenge".  My friends were super excited this morning when asked to name the Strawberry Patch that North Live Oak is starting.  We brainstormed many, many names and then someone suddenly came up with the perfect name, Busy Bees Berry Patch.  I honestly can't recall who came up with the name because as soon as we all heard it we cheered loudly and knew instantly that it was the perfect name for our school's Strawberry Patch.  My friends discussed how the bees would be so busy pollinating the berries that they would indeed be very busy bees.  This led to a review of pollination and what would occur without it.  We were overflowing with excitement and had to go and share our name with our fourth grade friends.  We think they liked the name we picked for the Strawberry Patch, as well.  Mrs. Hastings took our picture in front of the new composter that was recently purchased for our fruit trees.  Going green is so exciting, fun and educational.   Thank you Mrs. Hastings and Mrs. Vellier for including us this morning.  We can't wait to taste the yummy strawberries from "Busy Bees Berry Patch".  I am certainly enjoying all the fun, excitement and new experiences that come with my kindergarten friends.  Every day is a new and exciting educational adventure!

                                   

An additional note:  On Friday, we were invited by Mrs. Hastings to paint the school composter, which was named the "Fertile Beast".  Thank you, Mrs. Hastings! My friends had a blast taking turns painting the composter during our Fall Carnival Day at school.  We are so excited to be part of the CPS project at North Live Oak!