3rd Grade Science

In April, Mrs. Makarewich’s third grade students began their science unit on rocks and minerals. Each child brought in a rock or mineral that they particularly wanted to study. They have been keeping a journal in which they have been recording the observations they have been making. Their descriptions include size, color, luster, hardness and weight as well as specific characteristics such as whether their rock sinks or floats. Using magnifying glasses to find some of these details has been especially exciting.



In April, Mrs. Makarewich’s third grade students began their science unit on rocks and minerals. Each child brought in a rock or mineral that they particularly wanted to study. They have been keeping a journal in which they have been recording the observations they have been making. Their descriptions include size, color, luster, hardness and weight as well as specific characteristics such as whether their rock sinks or floats. Using magnifying glasses to find some of these details has been especially exciting.

	Recently the students completed their first experiment on sedimentary rocks. Each child was given a sample of sand, silt, and potting soil.


		The children then used their magnifying glasses to examine the properties of these three types of sediments.

Following the steps of the scientific process, each child completed a lab sheet. First they had to form a hypothesis telling what they thought would happen when their sediments were mixed with water. Their hypothesis was based on their soil observations. Next, they added water and stirred.



The students waited a few minutes for their mixture to settle and then they recorded their findings by drawing a picture.




Careful observations were made.

			The students then discussed their findings and recorded them on their lab sheets. This hands-on experiment helped the students understand exactly how sedimentary rocks are formed.

Next the students will be performing experiments to find out how igneous and metamorphic rocks are formed as well as continuing their rock observations.

Kent Center School 9 Judd Avenue, P.O. Box 219, Kent CT 06757 860-927-3537
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