Tuesday, September 23, 2008

September 11

Today we discussed the difference between common, everyday terminology and the meaning of those words in science. For example, most people would consider that a theory is like an opinion. But, in science, a theory is an educated guess that has undergone plenty of testing. However, even theories can undergo changes like in the last year scientists figured out that dinosaurs actually carried themselves differently. It is important for us to know and understand these terms so we can help our students to better understand them.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Discussion- Temperature

This activity we did in groups of four. My group consisted of Aaron, Mallory, and Lindsey. In this activity, we tried out the LabQuests with the temperature calculator. We observed the temperature change in a regular cup of water. We then added ice to the cup and observed the temperature change. Finally, we tested the temperature of each person. I believe this activity was to help us use a LabQuest and observer how fast the temperature changes due to outside influences.

Discussion- Time

Our first science activity involved time. Each group was required to make 3 paper helicopters for the test. One was the control and the other two were for your experiments placing weight on the paper. Brandon and I found that all objects did not make much of a difference in the time it took to hit the ground. So, this proves that objects will fall at the same speed minus any resistance.