Sixth Grade Science/Tech

Students work in teams to make posters
showing their findings based on evidence.

Campus Microclimates

I'm trying a new project this week based on an activity I found in NSTA's Science Scope magazine. Basically, students are collecting weather data (temperature, wind speed, humidity, etc.) for various locations around campus over three days to find which is the best picnic spot based on the weather. Students are using special digital tools (anemometers and psychrometers). This has added to student excitement and authenticity.

Next they are analyzing the data to decide which campus microclimate will be the best for a mini picnic based on the evidence they've collected. In math, Julie Hanson will be working with them to translate their data tables into histograms.

Back in science, they're using the data and histograms to make posters that state their teams' recommendations (pictured). I'm surprised at how seriously students are taking the assignment. I think it's because it is so tied in to their everyday experiences and because the idea of a picnic is fun. I know it's fun and meaningful to them, but I think other experiences this year will focus on deeper issues.

A student uses an anemometer to measure wind speed.

Students keep data sheets daily.

Above, another team talks out what to include on the poster.