The end of term coincides with the end of unit, which coincides with the 'test'. Bottom-line, students need to recognize science language in test form and perform. With all of the activities they have participated in throughout the term they usually have no problem completing this portion of the unit. And to prepare them for this next learning experience again we work together in conversation reviewing all three chapters and creating possible questions. The preparation of the questions extended their science knowledge and literacies as well as stretched it to include the language of evaluation. Together in their groups they prepared their questions on the computer and sent them to me as attachments. I compiled them 'as' they sent them, printed them and photocopied them to model how to distribute workload and then jigsaw it back together.
Preparing for and Taking of The Test
We talk about ways to prepare for a test, set a schedule for studying, take time in class to learn and practice different study strategies. And then finally, we take the test. During the test I give them several gifts. I allow them to talk to the people sitting in their table group for a minute on one or two occasions, and once I allow them to get up and ask anyone in the class anything in regard to the test. In the end almost all of the students in the class are able to 'pass' the test - which reflects the science knowledge they have added to their stores as the term progressed.
As we prepare for the test the seed of our project is planted. The project that follows this unit is the creation of a constellation and a myth or fable to accompany it. The constellation is poked into one end of a shoe box and an eye hole is poked in the other. The story is written and performed for other groups in the class in preparation of performing for other classes. Oral language is a goal at our school and any chance we can get to perform or talk in front of our class or other classes we take. I am always amazed at how diverse the stories are. The students work together and everyone is involved. Pride shines from their faces when they present, and literacies knowledge flows through their stories.
Preparing and Practising Constellation Stories
Finally, we took a field trip to the Space Centre. At the centre we built and launched rockets, using our knowledge of triangulation to measure the 'highest' flyer.
We spent time in the gallery continuing our inquiry and enjoying the opportunity to 'play' with the installations. We took a simulated trip to Mars, we participated in a quiz show about the extreme environments of outer space in the planetarium and we witnessed how we as humans prepare ourselves for trips to outer space.
And now we are done the first term and the first unit. They are proud of the work they have accomplished and they are excited to start the next unit - after Christmas. They are interested, confident and inquisitive - well on their way to 'being scientists', each and everyone of them.