Engaging Science Activities for Building a Collaborative Classroom Environment

Christy, a middle school science teacher, shares her strategies for engaging students in the first three weeks of school. Week one focuses on team-building activities and growth mindset discussions. Week two revisits the scientific method through practical testing of paper towels. Week three introduces the engineering design process with a coffee cup challenge. These activities aim to set a positive tone for the school year and encourage active learning.

What is the main goal of the activities in the first week of school?

• To focus solely on individual work

• To establish a competitive environment

• To introduce complex scientific theories

• To build excitement and a foundation for learning

In the 'Save Fred' activity, what are students not allowed to do?

• Use paperclips

• Work in teams

• Use their hands to touch the gummy worm

• Talk to each other

What is the key lesson from the growth mindset activities?

• Failure should be avoided at all costs

• Only famous people can succeed

• Mistakes are a part of the learning journey

• Success is achieved without any failures

Which famous person is NOT mentioned in the growth mindset section?

• Jay-Z

• Albert Einstein

• The Beatles

• Maya Angelou

What do students create during the get-to-know-you activity?

• A research paper

• Personalized lab coats

• A group presentation

• A science project

What is the purpose of the forensics activity?

• To learn about historical events

• To practice claim evidence reasoning

• To memorize scientific formulas

• To write a fictional story

What do students test in the paper towel experiment?

• The color of the paper towels

• The price of the paper towels

• The strength and absorbency of the paper towels

• The brand popularity of the paper towels

Why do students switch directions with another group during the paper towel experiment?

• To confuse the other group

• To ensure the directions are clear and replicable

• To save time

• To avoid writing their own directions

What is the main objective of the coffee cup challenge?

• To test different coffee brands

• To design a cup that keeps coffee hot

• To learn about coffee production

• To create a new coffee flavor

What materials are students encouraged to use in the coffee cup challenge?

• Plastic cups

• Pre-made ceramic mugs

• Store-bought thermoses

• Recycled materials from home