I thought this would be really great in class and relate to probability in Math. we were doing probability, the timing was perfect and we have prior knowledge from Malama Aina and Social Studies about how species change due to environmental changes...what i didn't expect....students to make paperclip necklaces ....somehow, i don't think it is the material so much as perhaps classroom mgmt...however, I was relieved at our TSI group follow up to learn that my class was not the only class to decide to make paperclip necklaces...yay!
Mon, 04/01/2013 - 19:18
So I'm finally getting to this one tomorrow. I'm wondering if I will end up with necklaces as well. Perhaps we will review the 'demeanors' upfront and avoid the jewelry. We'll see.........
Thu, 03/28/2013 - 15:05
As it turns out, I tried this lesson with a different class than my "focus" group and found that a group of boys did make chains with the paperclips. I think that this lab could be done with something other than paperclips too (maybe chocolate/vanilla chips, beans or beads) and that might help the issue. Also, as students were making the chains we have a very light conversation about behaviors of scientists. Although students weren't "scolded" I think having a conversation about behavior that clearly conflicted with their own drove the point home.