CHANGE IS SIMPLE

The fourth graders worked with an environmental group called Change Is Simple this week. We have been studying renewable and non-renewable resources. CIS was able to bring this to life with two hands-on activities. The students got to build a working wind turbine that produced energy to power a light! Then, the students worked to measure how much energy a solar cell is able to produce in different lighting conditions.

MIDWEST MAPPING MAGIC!

As part of  4K's study the Midwest Region, we learned about many tourist attractions and historical locations in this part of our country. We became experts on just a few. Click on a location to get a guided tour. 

VALENTINE'S VORTEX

MRS. KLIPFEL HAD A VALENTINE'S DAY SURPRISE FOR THE STUDENTS OF 4K TODAY!
DANTE SAID "TODAY WE HAD FUN WITH THE GREEN SCREEN!!!" LANCE:RIGHT CLICK THEN SELECT LOOP MOLLY SAID:TODAY WE WEN TO VALENTINE'S SPACE!!!! WE HAD A  CANDY CRAZE!!!!!! WE GOT SUCKED INTO A VORTEX WITH FLYING HEARTS 
THANK YOU MRS. KLIPFEL AND DOINK!

PASSION PROJECT PRESENTATION

What is better than spending time doing something you LOVE? That is the idea behind Passion Projects. Students in 4K were given some time each week for 9 weeks to investigate ANY topic they were CURIOUS about. Along with learning more about the topic they have a high interest in, the purpose was to engage them in learning researching skills,  how to persevere and to work independently.

There was a wide range of passion topics in 4K. Topics included: "How did lacrosse start?" "Who wrote the first book?" Rollercoasters, famous artists, polar bears, cheerleading, kissing bugs, computer programming of games, and more.

The students got a chance to show their hard work off to their parents. 

UNCOVERING THE WHOLE

4K learned a new game! This fun activity helped us practice equivalent fractions. The class used the fraction tiles they made to "uncover the whole" after rolling a die with 1/2; 1/4 ; 1/8; and 1/16 on it. Starting with their wholes covered with two halves. Then, depending on what fraction was rolled, the halves would be traded in so the fraction could be removed. 

DESIGNING FLOOD SOLUTIONS

We have been studying all about natural hazards. Volcanoes, earthquakes, hurricanes, tsunamis and floods are among the events we explored. The essential question for the unit is:

•  How are people and property affected by natural disasters?

To wrap up this unit, the students were asked to design solutions to floods. They worked in teams to design, plan, test, observe and record results. Every team was able to put what they learned about natural hazards into practice. The teams were able to successfully protect the homes in the flood path. 

STEAMBOAT PENNY CHALLENGE

Students had the chance to collaborate on another STEM challenge. They were asked to build a boat that could support the weight of 25 pennies and remain afloat.

The Challenge: To build a boat using only straws and plastic wrap that will support 25 pennies. The boat must support 25 pennies without sinking.

Time: Teams will have 3 minutes to collaborate and 10 minutes to construct.

Sound Impossible?

Not for 4K! Just take a look....