Hi ReSET'ers: If you're interested in working with students on the experiment Wayne describes (below)let me know (johnmeagher@cox.net). I have some mineral sets in the ReSET supply stock. John
Hi John,
This is just a brief note to bring you up to date on my 2010 ReSET
classroom activities. This afternoon I finished the fourth session on
Geology---Properties and Identification of Minerals. I was pleased how
well the 5th grade students in all four classes and especial the last
class mastered the techniques for 1.) making streaks from the minerals
on a black or white Streak Plate, 2.) determining if the mineral
scratched their thumbnail, a copper penny, a piece of glass, or a
ceramic streak plate, and 3.) inventing descriptive words that
characterized the appearance of the minerals as they saw them e.g. the
Luster: shiny, metallic, dull, waxy, sparkly, etc.
The four one-hour sessions included all 110 or so fifth graders at Key
ES and two teachers. The streak plates, glass, and pennies show their
use after this years intense use. They will need some replacements for
the next go around. I also invested in some good rock samples such as
gabbro, oolitic limestone, anorthocite, granite with biotite, etc. at a
cost of $45. Students felt that they were easier to use than the small
thumbnail size. When students left the classroom for their next class
each one received one of my Lake Superior Agate with a Hardness 7,
which means it will stay polished if they carry it in their pocket or
purse with of change, pens, etc.
Next up are experiments on Electricity and Magnetim and/or Light.
I also tried Key ES lunches.....interesting.
Cheers,
Wayne
