Catching up!

Hi All,

Here is where we are in class......

Thank you for your efforts on Amazing Journeys today. We will take time on Thursday to share that work while it is still fresh in our minds. The film visits a number of different ecosystems, making some expected and unexpected connections between living things and their environments - that's cool ecology!

Tomorrow is field day, when we can continue our efforts at Chaparral House and on our field projects.

Time permitting on Thursday, we will resume our geology studies as we discuss characteristics of minerals before more hands-on learning next week.

Reminder for those doing the second phase of the Lawrence Hall study with Sherry, the second card's journal entries and photos are due tomorrow. See you then!

This week in Science

Hi All,

This week, we will be continuing our studies of rocks, minerals, and soil.

Wednesday will be a chance to wrap up that work for some, while others will take some time to meet with the folks from Lawrence Hall of Science on their validation survey (step 2).

THURSDAY, WE HAVE A QUIZ ON THE ROCK CYCLE. We will be reviewing this material and discussing some studying startegies in class on Tuesday.

LHS Validation Study

Hi Parents,

For those of you participating in the Lawrence Hall of Science survey, thank you!

There is also currently an option of taking part in a qualitative survey, which will enable students to explore their use of science in their everyday lives. Of the 16 engaged in the first part of the survey, it is our hope that seven or so may choose to participate in this next step.

Please ask your sixth grader about this. If you choose to have your child participate in this second survey, please make sure the student and parent consent forms are in by this Friday.

Thanks!

Rocks, Minerals, and Soil

Hi All,

While half of you are in the field with me today, the other half are working to complete some background information on rocks, minerals, and soil. Please make sure you are working to complete the following

Rocks and Mineral Packet
* Read and Highlight the important information.
* In the Classwork section of your binder, answer all of the circled questions with as much detail and description as possible.

Soil Packet
* Read and highlight important information.
* In the Classwork section of your binder, answer all of the circled questions with as much detail and description as possible.
* Answer the following prompts with as much detail and description as possible:
1. Describe how soil is formed.

2. Some scientists say the “soil is alive.” What do they mean by this statement?

3. Why are pore spaces important for good plant growth?

4. Describe a typical soil profile.

5. Compare the following types of soil particles:
gravel, sand, silt, clay.

There is no homework.