GEMS Science Class Summary 4/15/13

Well, the jury has deliberated and the results are unanimous. After much discussion and debate the class has agreed that Kendra and Vera had something to do with Felix’s murder. Seven out of eleven of the students also think that Felix isn’t really dead and somehow got Kendra and Vera to join in with him to stage his own death!

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BUT, we have a problem. The students had a lot of trouble getting evidence to back up their theory. Many could generally say why they came up with their theory, but kept getting confused when asked questions about the other evidence. SO, we actually HAVE HOMEWORK this week.

I think what the students really needed was to spend some time putting the pieces of the puzzle together. I told them what they needed to do was write a story about what happened that day, using as much evidence as possible. I told them there would still be questions left unanswered (which is very common in real life), but for the most part our most important pieces of evidence should be included in their story. I offered them any notes or worksheets we used in class to take home in order to help them. Just in case some students still need reminders, here is a list of the tests we conducted in class. (All of them are familiar with the results.)

• The Brown Stain on the paper towel test = candy coating
• Cola Test = Regular cola matched Alfredo’s cup, but not Felix’s.
• Fingerprints - This test had a lot of different results based on each student’s observation.
• Smells = There was some discrepancy with this test as well. Many students thought
• Gene’s cologne was on the towel. Some thought it was Felix’s.
• White Threads = The mystery threads found at the scene match cotton threads, not wool.
• DNA Testing = The hair found on the comb matches Felix’s hair
• Ice Cube Test = The ice water found at the scene did not match regular tap water.
• Secret Note = Dear Martha, The deed is done. Felix is dead. I’ll be rich soon. Love, Vera (but the note was written in Kendra’s handwriting)
• Powder Study = The blood drops were actually red food coloring mixed with a mysterious white powder that matched white powder found on Kendra and Vera’s shoes.
• Tape Lift = Dog hair was found on Gene and Kendra’s shirts.

The photos are from our Clue Board and highlight the evidence that the class has decided is very important to the case, somewhat important, and not related to the class.

Spend some time this week having your child tell you what their theory is and what pieces of evidence lead them to that conclusion. They are welcome to embellish the story as long as it’s used to explain the evidence. If you have any questions please feel free to e-mail me at [email protected].

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Gearing up for Ecology

After we share our theories at the beginning of class next week we will be taking a walk outside to our area of study for our Ecology Unit. If there is time the students will be making a map of the area. Here is a list of things that students should have:

• A notebook or binder paper for an ecology journal (I will have clipboards available for those who would like to borrow one)
• Rain boots, jacket, and hat
• Any field guides they would like to use

I look forward to spending some time outside studying this world that is waking from it’s winter slumber! There’s a lot going on out there to explore and discover.