Week 14: Particle Models of Matter

 

Today in lab, we talked about the different characteristics of the different states of matter. We also talked about the particle makeup of each state of matter. Each group drew models of how particles look in each state of matter. We then talked more about the plunger experiment we did in week 1. We experimented and discussed with our group to come up with an idea as to why we think that a plunger sticks to certain surfaces and not others. Each group was then given another experiment from week 1 to investigate. My group looked into the question of why cold drinks get water droplets on the outside. We learned that when the warm air particles come in contact with the cold can, they cool down, which in turn makes them slow down. As the air cools down, it can not hold as much water, so the excess water forms droplets on the can. 

I could relate this to previous knowledge because I have experienced a cool can getting condensation on it on a warm day. I had never known why this happens, so today's lab was helpful to help me think about it more and investigate why this happens. The simulations we looked at in lab today helped answer the question we were investigating. 

I can apply this learning to my future classroom because it involved a lot of hands-on activities. Hands-on activities are very helpful when teaching elementary students science topics. I liked having the opportunity to do an experiment to help us answer a scientific question. I like the idea of giving students some control over their learning as they are trying to figure out the answer to the question by themselves without the teacher's help. 

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