Science News at YOSS with Mrs. Fitzpatrick

The boys at YOSS have been having a great time in science class! Each grade has been applying their learned scientific concepts to create and perform fantastic hands-on activities!

First Grade has been learning about the Magic of Sound and sound effects. Most recently, students investigated vibrations as a source of sound effects. In one activity, students used their hands and feet to create a "rainstorm," and then used rulers to create a “boing” sound for a cartoon bouncy ball, along with other sound producing objects…it was so much fun!

The Second Graders have been learning about the properties of Insulators, and how important blubber is for an arctic animal to keep warm! They considered the insulating properties of different materials and put on blubber “gloves” made up of various insulating materials (foil, play-doh and crisco) and compare/contrast cold water with an uncovered hand, as opposed to being encased in “blubber”.

The Third Graders have been trying their hand at testing bridge strength, as well as learning about the importance of structural integrity and support. They were CAPTIVATED by the “Galloping Gertie” story! Check out THAT historical phenomena!

The Fourth Graders have been working tirelessly on Rube Goldberg and energy models!

They have been working collaboratively to formulate an actual Rube Goldberg machine! What’s a Rube Goldberg machine? It is a chain reaction, energy transfer/cause/effect machine that is engineered to accomplish a specific goal. This coincides with their “energizing energy” unit, and will continue over the next few lessons .