Through strategic implementation of a science based unit, children will be developing and practicing skills in all areas of the curriculum. Through the experiments your class will perform, students are learning the scientific method. By providing many opportunities to utilize the principles of the scientific method, children are required to think critically about materials and the ways they are using them. As your students work through the activities in this unit, they will need to call upon a variety of skills. Math skills will be used throughout, children will be learning new mathematical concepts as well as practicing concepts they have already learned. Students must challenge themselves to apply concepts in non-traditional and interesting ways. Throughout the entire unit teachers are presented with many tools to promote literacy. There are numerous opportunities for relevant reading and writing activities. Teachers can really vary the format of these activities from independent to interactive reading and writing. Having children work in small groups and present their finding to the class beautifully extends some experiments, and allows students to utilize communication, problem solving and interaction skills.
This unit provides a unique opportunity for students and teachers to experiment, explore, wonder and learn together. Successful implementation will prove rewarding and educational for all involved.
List of materials
This list provides only an outlines the materials you will need for this unit. Additional materials are detailed in the descriptions of specific activities.
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Magnets
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Horseshoe magnets
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Magnet wands (Available from school supply catalogs)
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Bar magnets
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Other magnets
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Materials to use with Magnet experiments
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Paper clips of different sizes (You will probably use a lot!)
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Steal wool
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A variety of metal objects to use with magnets
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String
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Small plastic soda bottles (20 ounce size works well)
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Shallow plastic or cardboard containers with clear tops
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Coins
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Old computer disk
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Old cassette tape, old VCR tape
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Tin foil
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Metal scissors
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Tie tack
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Hair barrette
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Tag board for Magnet board game
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Materials for experiments on static energy
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Small plastic combs
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Balloons
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Materials for use with Tape player
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Functional cassette tape
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Functional tape player
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Broken tape player
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Small screw drivers
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Old cassette tape (to take apart)
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Needle nose pliers
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Wire cutters
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Children's scissors
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Additional materials
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1 ½ volt battery (A size D battery is all you need)
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Covered copper wire
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Erector set with motor
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Old computer disk (to take apart)
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Butter knife
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