Mr. T.'s 4th Grade Class Website
Old Hammondtown School Mattapoisett, Massachusetts USA
Hi, and welcome to our class website. This is a place where we will share information about what's happening in our classroom.
Scroll down below to our Classroom Happenings section.
Several pages on this website are password protected for student use only.
Use the Contact Form to send us an email and we will be
happy to share the password with you.
Use the Contact Form to send us an email and we will be
happy to share the password with you.
Don't forget to check out the Website of the Week.
How many fractions can you place on the number line correctly?
Give it a try!
Classroom Happenings
Exploring the parts of a flower.
It's time to celebrate!
Thanks to a generous grant from the Tri-Town Lighthouse Foundation our courtyard garden is getting a much needed make-over.
The garden has given us a bounty of vegetables over the past 7 seasons.
It's time to give it the refresh it deserves. Stop by and watch us grow.
Grow plants without soil? Are you crazy?
Beautiful basil growing without soil in our hydroponic grow system.
Electromagnets
What do you get when you combine an iron nail, wire, and a battery?
Circuit Spin Art
D Cell, Wires, Electric Motor, Masterpiece
Switching Circuits
Series and Parallel Paths
Electrifying Circuits
Round and round the electrons flow, lighting the bulbs as they go.
There are 80 days left in the school year. To celebrate, we investigated facts about the number 80. These are some of the interesting things that we learned about the number eighty.
Mirror Writing with Leonardo da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci was a true Renaissance man. He was an artist, sculptor, philosopher, and inventor. He was also left-handed which caused him great pain when writing. As he wrote from left to right, his hand would smudge the ink before it had time to dry. To alleviate this problem, da Vinci devised a system of writing from right to left and backwards. Some believe that da Vinci used this form of writing to keep his ideas away from his rivals. Whatever the reason, it sure was fun writing in da Vinci style.
Magnificent Magnets
Opposites Attract and Likes Repel
The Science of Snowflakes
See how snowflakes form as they fall from the sky.
Thanks to Adam Dylewski at the American Chemical Society.
Changing Matter: Physically, and Chemically
Making a stained glass candle holder
Today we learned that changing the state, or dissolving matter is a physical change that does not create something new. Physical changes are caused with forces like motion, temperature, and pressure. We also learned that a chemical change takes place when molecules interact to create new molecules. Something new is created and the original matter cannot be recovered.
To make our stained glass candle holders, we started by tearing large sheets of paper into smaller pieces of paper. The pieces were different shapes and sizes but the paper was still paper. This is an example of a physical change.
We also diluted white glue with water. This is another example of a physical change.
Candles will be placed into the holders. When the wick of the candle is lit, a chemical reaction will take place when the fiber of the wick reacts with oxygen. The melting wax undergoes both a physical change, and chemical change. When heat melts the wax, a physical change occurs. When the wax burns, the wax reacts with oxygen and something new is created. This is an example of a chemical change.
Thanks to Mrs. Barrows for making this project possible.
To make our stained glass candle holders, we started by tearing large sheets of paper into smaller pieces of paper. The pieces were different shapes and sizes but the paper was still paper. This is an example of a physical change.
We also diluted white glue with water. This is another example of a physical change.
Candles will be placed into the holders. When the wick of the candle is lit, a chemical reaction will take place when the fiber of the wick reacts with oxygen. The melting wax undergoes both a physical change, and chemical change. When heat melts the wax, a physical change occurs. When the wax burns, the wax reacts with oxygen and something new is created. This is an example of a chemical change.
Thanks to Mrs. Barrows for making this project possible.
Mixed Up Mixtures
Is it a solid? Is it a liquid? You decide.
Today we made a water (liquid) and cornstarch (solid) mixture called a colloid. A colloid is a mixture that acts like a solid and a liquid at the same time. It is also called “non-Newtonian” since its viscosity also depends on the force applied to the liquid or how fast an object is moving through the liquid. Viscosity describes the resistance of a liquid to flow. We learned that other non-Newtonian fluids are ketchup, silly putty, and quicksand.
Density In A Bottle
4 different liquids. 4 different densities. How will they "stack up"?
View our slideshow to find out.
Matter All Around Us
Investigating Mass, Volume, and Density
What do the Pilgrims, butter, and molecules have in common?
I wonder if the Pilgrims knew that when they were making butter they were actually making an emulsion? To celebrate the Thanksgiving season, we changed a liquid into a solid and made butter.
Milk is a mixture of water and little globs of fat and protein. When cows milk is left at room temperature, the watery skim milk settles to the bottom, and the less dense fatty cream floats to the surface. If you agitate the molecules in the cream, it fools them into mixing with other molecules that they don’t usually bond with. This mixing together changes the state of matter from a liquid into a solid.
Butter is a mixture of milk fat and water in a type of colloid known as an emulsion. A colloid is a stable mixture of two materials (solids, liquids or gases) that don’t usually mix. Substances that don’t mix are known as immiscible. An emulsion is a stable mixture of two immiscible liquids. The protein acts like glue that binds the water, fat, and proteins together. Check out our video gallery to see the students in action.
Milk is a mixture of water and little globs of fat and protein. When cows milk is left at room temperature, the watery skim milk settles to the bottom, and the less dense fatty cream floats to the surface. If you agitate the molecules in the cream, it fools them into mixing with other molecules that they don’t usually bond with. This mixing together changes the state of matter from a liquid into a solid.
Butter is a mixture of milk fat and water in a type of colloid known as an emulsion. A colloid is a stable mixture of two materials (solids, liquids or gases) that don’t usually mix. Substances that don’t mix are known as immiscible. An emulsion is a stable mixture of two immiscible liquids. The protein acts like glue that binds the water, fat, and proteins together. Check out our video gallery to see the students in action.
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A Trip to New Bedford: Past and Present
What a special day it was today. We traveled to nearby New Bedford and visited the New Bedford Whaling Museum, and the New Bedford Ocean Explorium. It was a trip back into the rich history of whaling and the connection to Mattapoisett. And the present where we learned about the importance of taking care of our oceans and the wonderful creatures that roam the seas.
We hope you enjoy this short slideshow that highlights some of what we experienced today.
We hope you enjoy this short slideshow that highlights some of what we experienced today.
What's the matter with matter? It's Element-ary!
November 16, 2012
Prime or Composite?
Snail and Whale helped out in math class today. We were investigating prime and composite numbers so Snail and Whale jumped right in to give us a hand. In there travels around the world, they both learned a few things about prime and composite numbers. They lead the discussion and told us that prime numbers are positive integers that have only one pair of factors. Whale was a big help explaining that composite numbers are positive integers that have more than one pair of factors. When we broke up into groups to find the prime numbers in our zero to one hundred grids, they visited each group and answered questions. They even helped out making prime and composite posters for the wall. We sure are glad Snail and Whale stopped by the classroom when they did. We can't wait to see what else they have to teach us.
What's in the box?
Using indirect evidence to solve the mystery of what's in the box.
Today in science lab, we used prior knowledge, indirect evidence, and our senses to solve the mystery of what was in 6 different packages. The students broke up into groups of 3 and had five minutes to carefully examine each package. The recorder in the group wrote down their observations. Each package was measured and identified for shape. Faces, edges, and vertices were also recorded. In the end, each group used their descriptive words and recorded observations to make an “educated guess” as to what they thought was inside each package.
Hats off to Bethany for correctly identifying the contents of package D. Bethany deduced that there was a hexagonal barbell in box D. Great sleuthing Bethany.
Today in science lab, we used prior knowledge, indirect evidence, and our senses to solve the mystery of what was in 6 different packages. The students broke up into groups of 3 and had five minutes to carefully examine each package. The recorder in the group wrote down their observations. Each package was measured and identified for shape. Faces, edges, and vertices were also recorded. In the end, each group used their descriptive words and recorded observations to make an “educated guess” as to what they thought was inside each package.
Hats off to Bethany for correctly identifying the contents of package D. Bethany deduced that there was a hexagonal barbell in box D. Great sleuthing Bethany.
Happy Halloween
The fifth grade celebrated Halloween with a monster mash. From the pictures, I think
you will agree it was a smash. Thanks to all of the parents who helped make this afternoon a great success.
you will agree it was a smash. Thanks to all of the parents who helped make this afternoon a great success.
Up, Up, and Away!
What do air pressure, gravity, and buoyancy have in common?
Each day, we move through the air that surrounds us and don’t even feel a thing. Because air has mass, but not shape, it is constantly moving and pressing down upon the earth. At sea level, we learned that there is 14.7 pounds per square inch pressing down upon us. That’s an amazing amount of force.
We also learned that warmer air rises in cooler air because warmer air is less dense. This is why hot air balloons are able to rise high in the sky. Buoyancy is an upward force exerted by a liquid, gas or other fluid. Differences in air pressure cause an upward buoyant force which helps the balloons rise. We wanted to test this out so we constructed tissue paper balloons and gave them a ride. The less dense warm air filled the paper balloon and lifted them off into the air. As the air inside cooled, gravity pulled the balloon back to earth.
See the students in action and the balloon launch in this short slideshow.
Each day, we move through the air that surrounds us and don’t even feel a thing. Because air has mass, but not shape, it is constantly moving and pressing down upon the earth. At sea level, we learned that there is 14.7 pounds per square inch pressing down upon us. That’s an amazing amount of force.
We also learned that warmer air rises in cooler air because warmer air is less dense. This is why hot air balloons are able to rise high in the sky. Buoyancy is an upward force exerted by a liquid, gas or other fluid. Differences in air pressure cause an upward buoyant force which helps the balloons rise. We wanted to test this out so we constructed tissue paper balloons and gave them a ride. The less dense warm air filled the paper balloon and lifted them off into the air. As the air inside cooled, gravity pulled the balloon back to earth.
See the students in action and the balloon launch in this short slideshow.
Where Reading Can Take You: A live webcast with Taylor Swift
Our class participated in a live webcast with singer/songwriter Taylor Swift.
Swift shared her thoughts on “where reading can take you” and how great literature has inspired her writing. Taylor also answered questions from students and performed a song from her new CD. It was a special treat to round out today.
Swift shared her thoughts on “where reading can take you” and how great literature has inspired her writing. Taylor also answered questions from students and performed a song from her new CD. It was a special treat to round out today.
Oath of Office: Affirmation Day
Our class President and Vice-President were sworn in today by Chief Justice Davy of the Supreme Court. Both Ali and Lilah took the oath in front of the US Capital. The oath, outlined in the US Constitution, must be taken before the President and Vice-President can begin the execution of each office.
To view the affirmation of the President's Cabinet, members of the Senate, and House of Representatives, visit our Clas Government 12/13 page in the drop down menu.
I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
To view the affirmation of the President's Cabinet, members of the Senate, and House of Representatives, visit our Clas Government 12/13 page in the drop down menu.
I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.
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Congress in Action: Confirmation Hearings and Vote
Both the Senate, and House of Representatives convened today and confirmed the President’s nominees for her Cabinet. In separate votes, both House and Senate confirmed Hailey for Secretary of Agriculture, Nick for Secretary of Defense, Kate for Secretary of State, and Lauren for Secretary of the Interior.
After the confirmation, a swearing in ceremony took place on the steps of the US Capital. Chief Justice Davy of the Supreme Court administered the oath of office.
Both the Senate, and House of Representatives convened today and confirmed the President’s nominees for her Cabinet. In separate votes, both House and Senate confirmed Hailey for Secretary of Agriculture, Nick for Secretary of Defense, Kate for Secretary of State, and Lauren for Secretary of the Interior.
After the confirmation, a swearing in ceremony took place on the steps of the US Capital. Chief Justice Davy of the Supreme Court administered the oath of office.
Freshman Senators and Representatives Take Oath of Office
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The person with the most votes wins.
Or do they?
Electing the President of the United States: The Electoral College
The popular vote vs. The Electoral College.
Today we learned about the power of the vote and how the Electoral College process works.
Unlike most elections, the person who becomes president is not necessarily the candidate who wins the most votes on Election Day. Instead, the election of the president of the United States it is a two-step process.
On Election Day November 6th, 2012 voters will cast ballots in each state.
Then , the "electors" from each of the 50 states gather in December and they vote for president. The person who receives a majority of votes from the "Electoral College" becomes President. The candidate who receives 270 electoral votes, wins the election.
To learn more about the Electoral College, watch this short video from the CBS Sunday Morning show.
Symmetry Scavenger Hunt
We set out in search of symmetrical shapes today and here are a few examples of what we found.
Seasonal Symmetry
We took a break from algebra today and explored the world of symmetry. Below is a sample of some of the seasonal symmetrical shapes the students created. Each student's creation is unique and truly one of a kind, and no two are quite the same. To view each student's creation, visit their individual blog page in the QuadBlogging Pals drop down menu.
Scholastic Student Vote 2012
The results are in and our class has voted.
Recently, our class participated in Scholastic Student Vote 2012.
Scholastic Student Vote 2012 invited young people under the legal voting age of 18 to cast their vote for President in a mock election. They could vote online or by mailing in paper ballots. Almost a quarter million (250,000) students voted from August 15 until the online poll closed on October 10.
The Scholastic Student Vote may not be official, but its results have often indicated who eventually wins the presidential race. Scholastic has conducted the student mock vote during every presidential election since 1940. The results of the student vote have mirrored the actual outcome of all but two elections—1948, when kids voted for Thomas E. Dewey over Harry S. Truman, and 1960, when they selected Richard M. Nixon over John F. Kennedy.
In our classroom vote, President Obama received 9 votes, Mitt Romney received 7 votes, and 1 vote was cast for a third party candidate. To see the results from the Scholastic Student Vote, and state by state results click on the graph below.
Take our POLL and let us know who you would choose to be the next president of the United States.
You can link to the poll by clicking on the green highlighted word POLL in the previous sentence.
Recently, our class participated in Scholastic Student Vote 2012.
Scholastic Student Vote 2012 invited young people under the legal voting age of 18 to cast their vote for President in a mock election. They could vote online or by mailing in paper ballots. Almost a quarter million (250,000) students voted from August 15 until the online poll closed on October 10.
The Scholastic Student Vote may not be official, but its results have often indicated who eventually wins the presidential race. Scholastic has conducted the student mock vote during every presidential election since 1940. The results of the student vote have mirrored the actual outcome of all but two elections—1948, when kids voted for Thomas E. Dewey over Harry S. Truman, and 1960, when they selected Richard M. Nixon over John F. Kennedy.
In our classroom vote, President Obama received 9 votes, Mitt Romney received 7 votes, and 1 vote was cast for a third party candidate. To see the results from the Scholastic Student Vote, and state by state results click on the graph below.
Take our POLL and let us know who you would choose to be the next president of the United States.
You can link to the poll by clicking on the green highlighted word POLL in the previous sentence.
Class Presidential Election 2012
The results are in, and the winner is . . .
The votes were cast for a second time and the results are in. As you may recall, our first class presidential election ended in a tie. The candidates regrouped and after a week of campaigning, and debating were ready for the results.
After the votes were counted, it was determined that a majority of students voted for Ali and Lilah to be this years class president and vice-president.
I would like to congratulate all four students for their effort and maturity during the process. I was most proud to learn that both had agreed before hand to invite the losing team to be part of the winning team's cabinet.
A positive sign that our class government is going to be a great success.
Lunch with J.K. Rowling
Imagine what it would be like to have lunch in Edinburgh, Scotland with Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling. Well, that’s exactly what our class did today. We were treated to a special webcast live from Edinburgh, Scotland. The students shared their noon time lunch with the popular author via a live streaming feed. During the lunch, Rowling discussed her inspiration for the books, where she got the ideas for the characters, and the impact the books have had on children’s lives all over the world.
Throughout the lunch, the author answered student’s questions, and as a special bonus, read an excerpt from her first book entitled Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Rowling read from the chapter when Rubeus Hagrid escorts Harry to Mr. Ollivanders Wand Shop to get his first wand. Listening to Rowling read the text was mesmerizing. It has inspired us to start our own Harry Potter Lunch Bunch where we will read the Sorcerer’s Stone together. It was a very special day in B126.
Imagine what it would be like to have lunch in Edinburgh, Scotland with Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling. Well, that’s exactly what our class did today. We were treated to a special webcast live from Edinburgh, Scotland. The students shared their noon time lunch with the popular author via a live streaming feed. During the lunch, Rowling discussed her inspiration for the books, where she got the ideas for the characters, and the impact the books have had on children’s lives all over the world.
Throughout the lunch, the author answered student’s questions, and as a special bonus, read an excerpt from her first book entitled Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. Rowling read from the chapter when Rubeus Hagrid escorts Harry to Mr. Ollivanders Wand Shop to get his first wand. Listening to Rowling read the text was mesmerizing. It has inspired us to start our own Harry Potter Lunch Bunch where we will read the Sorcerer’s Stone together. It was a very special day in B126.
ScootPad
Today our class explored the world of ScootPad. Each student used a pre-assigned login name and password to enter the online world of math and reading practice. This ad free website will allow us to log in from school or home on just about any device, and launch a custom practice session in reading or math. The website will track our progress on skills that are aligned to the Common Core standards recently adopted by the state of Massachusetts.
Today our class explored the world of ScootPad. Each student used a pre-assigned login name and password to enter the online world of math and reading practice. This ad free website will allow us to log in from school or home on just about any device, and launch a custom practice session in reading or math. The website will track our progress on skills that are aligned to the Common Core standards recently adopted by the state of Massachusetts.
The Great Debate: Class Government in Action!
October 3, 2012
Today our class held its first presidential debate. The candidates answered questions from classmates, and used this opportunity to give the reasons why they should be elected class president and vice-president. Over the next two days, the candidates will campaign in preparation for Fridays vote. Stop by the Class Government page to watch video clips from the debate.
Stay tuned to see which candidates win the election.
Today our class held its first presidential debate. The candidates answered questions from classmates, and used this opportunity to give the reasons why they should be elected class president and vice-president. Over the next two days, the candidates will campaign in preparation for Fridays vote. Stop by the Class Government page to watch video clips from the debate.
Stay tuned to see which candidates win the election.
"The wind began to switch, the house to pitch. . . " Dorothy Gayle, The Wizard of Oz
Today in science lab, we made tornadoes in a bottle. In our ongoing study of weather we learned about what causes tornadoes, and how they form. We learned that tornadoes form when air masses meet with just the right amount of wind, moisture, and atmospheric instability.
To learn more about tornadoes, visit Weather Whiz Kids
at http://www.weatherwizkids.com/weather-tornado.htm
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Weather All Around Us
In our ongoing journey learning about weather, we learned about two new weather instruments. In class today we built our own thermometers and barometers. We will use them to forecast the weather and make predictions about how air pressure influences weather. Please stop back soon to learn more about what’s happening in our part of the atmosphere.
Happy Fall!
The Autumnal Equinox takes place at 10:29 AM EST.
Get ready for shorter days, cooler nights, and the changing of the leaves.
Visit our What's Going On Blog page and share your thoughts about the season we call Fall.
Get ready for shorter days, cooler nights, and the changing of the leaves.
Visit our What's Going On Blog page and share your thoughts about the season we call Fall.
September 11, 2012
North, South, East, and West
As part of our unit on weather we will be learning about weather instruments, what causes weather, how weather begins. We began by learning how to use a compass and finding North.
We then built wind vanes, and used them to determine which way the wind way coming from. Stop by soon to see what other instruments we will be making and using to explore the weather around us.
June 13, 2012
On Your Mark, Get Set, GO!
Let the games begin. The 2012 OHS Field Day Celebration was a great success. Despite the rain, and having to move the games inside, the competition was fast and furious. Even though we did not win the tug-o-war, we still had lots of fun. Check out the photos of the all of the action.
Click on the Team T picture to link to the photos.
On Your Mark, Get Set, GO!
Let the games begin. The 2012 OHS Field Day Celebration was a great success. Despite the rain, and having to move the games inside, the competition was fast and furious. Even though we did not win the tug-o-war, we still had lots of fun. Check out the photos of the all of the action.
Click on the Team T picture to link to the photos.
June 12, 2012
Oh What A Day It Has Been
Getting Dirty in the Garden
They say time flies when you’re having fun and today was one of those days. First we started out in the garden. We planted corn, yellow squash, cucumbers, eggplant, and lots of tomatoes. It looks like it’s going to be a very fruitful in the garden this year. The potatoes have busted through the soil, and the peas and beans are reaching for the sky. Stay tuned to watch our garden grow.
A Teachable Moment
The second part of our busy day started with a bus ride to Center School. We traveled over to visit our first grade buddies in Mrs. Hughes class. Our mission was to share our knowledge of simple machines with the first graders. We introduced the six types of simple machines and then broke up into five workstations. Each first grader had an opportunity to explore levers, pulleys, a screw, incline planes, wheel and axles, and gears. The students had a great time teaching and sharing their knowledge with their young counterparts.
Scroll down to see photos of our fabulous day.
Oh What A Day It Has Been
Getting Dirty in the Garden
They say time flies when you’re having fun and today was one of those days. First we started out in the garden. We planted corn, yellow squash, cucumbers, eggplant, and lots of tomatoes. It looks like it’s going to be a very fruitful in the garden this year. The potatoes have busted through the soil, and the peas and beans are reaching for the sky. Stay tuned to watch our garden grow.
A Teachable Moment
The second part of our busy day started with a bus ride to Center School. We traveled over to visit our first grade buddies in Mrs. Hughes class. Our mission was to share our knowledge of simple machines with the first graders. We introduced the six types of simple machines and then broke up into five workstations. Each first grader had an opportunity to explore levers, pulleys, a screw, incline planes, wheel and axles, and gears. The students had a great time teaching and sharing their knowledge with their young counterparts.
Scroll down to see photos of our fabulous day.
Planting in the Garden
Simple Machines With Our First Grade Buddies
Third Grade Visitors From Center School
Our third grade buddies from Center School came over to OHS today to take a tour of our school. Four third grade classes will be transitioning to a new building next year and so it was good for them to get a peek of their new school and learn about some of the topics they will be studying.
The students wrote, edited, and produced skits to present to the third graders as they visited our classroom. We hope you enjoy the show and learn about some of the science topics we studied this year in the fourth grade.
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Venus. We Hardly Knew You
The last time it happened was 105 years ago, so we decided that we should try to spot Venus as it’s orbit took it in front of the Sun. The safest way to view the transit was to construct a pinhole camera. A pinhole, or small opening, was used to form an image of the sun on a screen.
Tuesday's transit was only the eighth since the invention of the telescope, and was the last until December 10-11, 2117.
Venus appeared as a small dark dot crossing sun’s face for last time this century on June 5-6, 2012. It was the last transit of Venus in our lifetimes.
( Click on the highlighted words for an explanation. )
May 22, 2012
Round and Round and Round She Goes
We continued our journey into the world of simple machines. Today we learned about the wheel and axle. We learned that a wheel and axle is a simple machine that is made up of a smaller cylinder (the axle) joined to a larger cylinder (the wheel). We experimented with a special kind of wheel and axle called a gear. Gears are wheels that have teeth. The teeth fit together so that when one gear turns it also turns the other gear. Sometimes the gears fit right together, and sometimes they work together through a chain or a belt. We also learned about ratios, driving gears, and gears that are driven. Check out the photos and videos to learn more.
Round and Round and Round She Goes
We continued our journey into the world of simple machines. Today we learned about the wheel and axle. We learned that a wheel and axle is a simple machine that is made up of a smaller cylinder (the axle) joined to a larger cylinder (the wheel). We experimented with a special kind of wheel and axle called a gear. Gears are wheels that have teeth. The teeth fit together so that when one gear turns it also turns the other gear. Sometimes the gears fit right together, and sometimes they work together through a chain or a belt. We also learned about ratios, driving gears, and gears that are driven. Check out the photos and videos to learn more.
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May 18, 2012
Pulleys Make The World Go Round
We continue to explore the world of simple machines. We learned that simple machines are devices that affect the force or effort needed to do a certain amount of work. We also learned that Work is equal to Force times distance. (W=F*d)
Today in class we learned about pulleys and pulley systems. The four pulley systems we constructed were the single fixed with effort down, single movable with effort upwards, combination single fixed, and single movable with effort down, and lastly the single fixed and single movable with effort upwards. We also used a spring scale to measure the force needed to lift a load. We measured the force in Newtons. We recorded our data and made conclusions based on the data. We concluded that the combination single fixed, single movable system required the least amount of force to move the load.
Check back soon to what’s new in the land of simple machines.
Pulleys Make The World Go Round
We continue to explore the world of simple machines. We learned that simple machines are devices that affect the force or effort needed to do a certain amount of work. We also learned that Work is equal to Force times distance. (W=F*d)
Today in class we learned about pulleys and pulley systems. The four pulley systems we constructed were the single fixed with effort down, single movable with effort upwards, combination single fixed, and single movable with effort down, and lastly the single fixed and single movable with effort upwards. We also used a spring scale to measure the force needed to lift a load. We measured the force in Newtons. We recorded our data and made conclusions based on the data. We concluded that the combination single fixed, single movable system required the least amount of force to move the load.
Check back soon to what’s new in the land of simple machines.
Tales Of A Fourth Grade Nothing
Our class just finished reading Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume. The story is about a 9-year-old boy named Peter Warren Hatcher and his relationship with his 2-year-old brother Farley Drexel. Farley can’t stand the sound of his legal name, and wants to be called Fudge. Fudge is a handful and Peter must cope with his little brothers shenanigans. The students formed groups, selected their favorite scenes from the book, and created skits.
In the first scene, Fudge thinks he can fly like a bird. He jumps off the jungle gym and loses his two front teeth.
In the second clip, Peter has just discovered that Fudge has ruined a poster for his school project.
We hope you enjoy the show.
May 16, 2012
Making Work Easier With Simple Machines
We began our unit on simple machines this week. We have been discussing the benefits of simple machines and how they reduce the amount of force needed to do work. Work is done when you push or pull an object and the object moves. We also learned that all machines are built from one or more simple machines, and those simple machines are categorized into two families. The Lever Family is made up of levers, pulleys, and wheel-and-axles. The Wedge Family is made up of the wedge, screw, and inclined plane.
Today we learned about the 3 classes of levers and the difference between the three.
We discussed the importance of the location of the fulcrum and its affect on force.
We used a lever, paper clips, hex nuts, and a fulcrum to record how moving the fulcrum towards the load reduces the amount of force needed to move the load.
Stay tuned for more information as we explore the world of simple machines.
Click on this link to explore the world of simple machines.
Making Work Easier With Simple Machines
We began our unit on simple machines this week. We have been discussing the benefits of simple machines and how they reduce the amount of force needed to do work. Work is done when you push or pull an object and the object moves. We also learned that all machines are built from one or more simple machines, and those simple machines are categorized into two families. The Lever Family is made up of levers, pulleys, and wheel-and-axles. The Wedge Family is made up of the wedge, screw, and inclined plane.
Today we learned about the 3 classes of levers and the difference between the three.
We discussed the importance of the location of the fulcrum and its affect on force.
We used a lever, paper clips, hex nuts, and a fulcrum to record how moving the fulcrum towards the load reduces the amount of force needed to move the load.
Stay tuned for more information as we explore the world of simple machines.
Click on this link to explore the world of simple machines.
Another Chat Across The Pond
This morning we video chatted with our friends in the Kittiwakes class at Flamborough Primary School in England. We divided the class into small groups and chatted with our buddies. We asked questions about school, and life in Flamborough. We continue to learn about the differences at each school, but more importantly despite being thousands of miles apart and on two different continents, we are learning just how alike we really are. We will be blogging about what we have learned on Thursday so stop by and read all about it.
A picture is worth a thousand words.
Our new friends in the Kittiwakes class at Flamborough Primary School in England have been very busy exploring the world around them. From the Goathland Rail Station, the very one used in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone as Hosgmeade Station, to the lighthouse, cliffs, and beaches that outline their beautiful village.
We are learning so many things about our new friends. We’ve discovered that we share many things in common. It’s been fun to learn new words and sayings, and use them in our day-to-day conversations. Stay tuned for more news from the blogoshere.
Be sure to check out their website to view the amazing photos of their adventures.
http://kittiwakesflamborough.primaryblogger.co.uk/
The distance across the pond just got a little bit closer.
This morning, our class had the pleasure of video conferencing with our new friends at the Flamborough Primary School in Flamborough, England. As part of a coordinated effort between our 4 quadblogging schools, the students took the first step in learning about their new friends from across the pond. The chat began at 9:00 EST and lasted a little longer than an hour. After introducing themselves, the students took turns asking questions of their new blog pals. It was exciting to put a face to the name of the friend we have been blogging with. We can’t wait to video chat in the upcoming weeks.
Stay tuned to see what we learn about our new friends.
These are some of the things that we learned today during our Skype session with the students from Flamborough.
· Netball is like basketball but you play with a “soccer” ball and you have to pass instead of running and dribbling with the ball. To learn more about netball, watch this short video.
· Their school is close to their houses. Most students live within a mile of the school. They walk to school, or ride their bikes.
· There are 98 students in the school and the classes are mixed age.
· Their day starts at 9:00 BST and their hometime is at half past 3.
· The school year is from September to July.
· We call British football, soccer.
· They have a lighthouse in their town and there are 119 steps to the top.
· They can buy a snack at break time.
· Their ages are 8 and 9 years old.
· Their classes are called years instead of grades.
· We chatted with a Yr3/4 classroom.
· They can swim at the beach just like we can.
· They wear uniforms to school.
· The school they attend has one floor just like ours.
· They play the same games as we do.
Fish, Amphibians, Reptiles, Mammals, and Birds, Oh My!
Over the past few weeks we have been learning about vertebrates, food chains, and food webs. Each student zoologist was assigned a special task. The task was to create a new vertebrate by combining two animals that already exist in nature. The students were also responsible for creating a healthy habitat for their newly created vertebrate. The new creatures will make their debut on May 3rd at 5:30 PM at the OHS Family Zoo Night.
To see a video introduction of each student's project, visit the individual student page in
the Quadblogging Pals drop down menu.
The Smithsonian Institution's Tree Banding Project
Our class began the first step in joining students from around the world tracking how trees respond to climate. Students around the globe are already monitoring the rate at which their local trees grow and comparing it to Smithsonian research and to other student’s worldwide. Student participation in this project will help create the first global observatory of how trees respond to climate!
With the help of members from the Mattapoisett Tree Committee, the Town Tree Warden, and The Smithsonian Institute’s Tree Banding Project, the students selected trees for banding. Each tree was tagged with a unique registration number. A device used to measure growth called a dendrometer was secured around each tree. Students will use calipers to measure the gap in the dendrometer 4 times a year and record the data online. Each student will also collect data on weather conditions, and temperature. Over the course of the project, the students will be learning how to identify trees by species using the Latin names, as well as, leaf identification. Each student has agreed to participate until they graduate from OHS.
To learn more about Shout and the Tree Banding Project, click on the Shout logo above. You may also watch a short video outlining the program.
The Smithsonian Institution's Tree Banding Project is part of Shout, collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution, Microsoft Partners in Learning, and TakingITGlobal. ,
With the help of members from the Mattapoisett Tree Committee, the Town Tree Warden, and The Smithsonian Institute’s Tree Banding Project, the students selected trees for banding. Each tree was tagged with a unique registration number. A device used to measure growth called a dendrometer was secured around each tree. Students will use calipers to measure the gap in the dendrometer 4 times a year and record the data online. Each student will also collect data on weather conditions, and temperature. Over the course of the project, the students will be learning how to identify trees by species using the Latin names, as well as, leaf identification. Each student has agreed to participate until they graduate from OHS.
To learn more about Shout and the Tree Banding Project, click on the Shout logo above. You may also watch a short video outlining the program.
The Smithsonian Institution's Tree Banding Project is part of Shout, collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution, Microsoft Partners in Learning, and TakingITGlobal. ,
North America's Sometime Forgotten Island
On Monday, April 23 at 1:30 PM our class participated in a live video event from Greenland.
PolarTrec teacher / scientist Tim Spuck discussed his latest research on the NASA IceBridge mission in Greenland. Mr. Spuck is working with the NASA IceBridge Project, the largest airborne survey of Earth's polar ice ever conducted. IceBridge is a six-year NASA mission to record data on the thickness, depth and movement of ice features.
Through cooperation with the U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen, the Danish Ministry of Education and the National Science Foundation's PolarTREC program, five teachers—two from Denmark, two from Greenland and one from the United States—were chosen to join Operation IceBridge. The teachers were embedded with the IceBridge team for sixteen days, staying with IceBridge personnel in the KISS facility, riding along on survey flights and attending daily science meetings. The teachers traded off days flying and days on the ground, with activities such as a glacier field trips and excursion to a nearby fossil site.
During the hour long presentation, Mr. Spuck discussed his research and experiences, and several students
were able to ask questions using a USB microphone.
For more information on the mission, visit http://www.polartrec.com/expeditions/airborne-survey-of-polar-ice
On Monday, April 23 at 1:30 PM our class participated in a live video event from Greenland.
PolarTrec teacher / scientist Tim Spuck discussed his latest research on the NASA IceBridge mission in Greenland. Mr. Spuck is working with the NASA IceBridge Project, the largest airborne survey of Earth's polar ice ever conducted. IceBridge is a six-year NASA mission to record data on the thickness, depth and movement of ice features.
Through cooperation with the U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen, the Danish Ministry of Education and the National Science Foundation's PolarTREC program, five teachers—two from Denmark, two from Greenland and one from the United States—were chosen to join Operation IceBridge. The teachers were embedded with the IceBridge team for sixteen days, staying with IceBridge personnel in the KISS facility, riding along on survey flights and attending daily science meetings. The teachers traded off days flying and days on the ground, with activities such as a glacier field trips and excursion to a nearby fossil site.
During the hour long presentation, Mr. Spuck discussed his research and experiences, and several students
were able to ask questions using a USB microphone.
For more information on the mission, visit http://www.polartrec.com/expeditions/airborne-survey-of-polar-ice
Impacts of the Larsen Ice Shelf System on the Weddell Sea
We are following Teacher Amber Lancaster and the LARISSA Project Team's interdisciplinary effort to address the rapid environmental changes occurring in the Antarctic Peninsula region as a consequence of the abrupt collapse of the Larsen B Ice Shelf in the fall of 2002.
To learn more about this project, click on the link below.
Followers from Around the World
Thank you to all our new friends from around the globe.
We received 124 visits from 16 countries in the first 24 hours.
Click on the map below to see who is checking in, or leave us a message
in the What's Going On Blog section.
Each dot on the map represents a visitor.
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