The Engineering Process
11/14/2020
This trimester, students researched and explored different animal systems, functions, and adaptations. This week used their new knowledge to think like an engineer, and developed a model of a new invention that mimics an animal system and solves a real-world problem. To set students up for success in designing a solution to a human problem by mimicking how plants and/or animals use their external parts to help them survive, grow, and meet their needs, students read about and researched different organisms, their parts, and their functions. They labeled animal parts, explored examples of some animal and plant adaptations, and met with an engineer. They also researched, made inferences, and wrote their own scientific article about animal teeth. These were compiled into an online book that includes audio of the students reading their article aloud. You can check out the amazing job students did by clicking on the link below! https://read.bookcreator.com/LfNizcUQzcgQvlKQAMMu4c7qhmH2/wtxso4xTTaS49Z7dO0aewg After gaining knowledge of animal systems and functions, students started reflecting on inventions already made. They drew the invention and reflected on how it mimics something in nature. Below is an image of clothing inspired by nature. Next, students were given a problem and began working their way through the engineering process to solve the problem. After choosing a problem, students began brainstorming and planning a solution to their problem. Next, they began creating their new inventions with items like tin foil, plastic bottles, feathers, pipe cleaners, and stuffing to complete their task. After creating their inventions, students tested them out. Some tested their invention in water to see if it would float and move. Some tried using their invention to dig in the frozen ground outside. Others dropped eggs to see if their invention would keep their egg from breaking. And the remainder took their inventions outside for some time to see if their design would keep their egg from getting cold and freezing. At last, students reflected on their inventions. What worked? What could they improve? Some had the chance to improve and test their inventions multiple times, while others chose to continue the process at home. Either way, students knew it was the process that was most important, and they had a blast! Worksheets & Engineering Process found at: www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Complete-1st-Grade-NGSS-Life-Science-Unit-4930148.
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Hali TuomiMs. Tuomi has over five years experience in ASD, where she taught first and fifth grade classrooms. An avid skier, Ms. Tuomi is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Alaska Pacific University’s Bachelor of Arts in K-8 Education. Archives
April 2021
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