Support Think Tank with your holiday/birthday/just because purchases!

A few weeks ago I sent home a flier with information on a few companies that make many great, inquiry-based learning toys. Fat Brain toys was one of these. This morning I recieved confirmation that we are now able to recieve 6% commission on any purchases you make when you access Fat Brain Toys through the clickable link on the right side this blog! All  money raised will go to support Think Tank or other inquiry-based initiatives at Maury! Every little bit helps as we work to build this great program at Maury!

Thank you for all of your continued support as we grow our Think Tank!

-Mrs. Ford

Make it MOVE!

Although it has been a few weeks since my last entry, I hope you have heard from your children about the exciting Lego based Think Tanks that have been happening! At this point, all students have had the opportunity to explore the Lego Simple Machines or Early Simple Machines kits, figure out how to use their components and complete a few challenges. The next step in the Lego unit is for them to build specific simple machines and complete a series of tests to determine how and why they work so well!

Lego Education uses a 4C approach: Connect, Construct, Contemplate and Continue

CONNECT: This is a story that places two Lego characters in real-life situations that most students will recognize  ( ie: on a see-saw). I read this aloud to the students. There is also a picture that goes with the story for students to analyze.

CONSTRUCT: Using building diagrams, students build models covering the concepts related to the simple machine focus.

CONTEMPLATE: This stage involves investigating the models they constructed. Through these investigations, students will learn to observe and compare results from tests that they make, and to report on their observations.

CONTINUE:  Students are asked to extend their learning, add and change features and investigate the content further. This phase encourages students to experiment and apply their knowledge creatively.

So far this unit has been a huge success! Students are exploring, being creative, problem solving and using many of their "smarts"! Please take a look at the bulletin boards on the first floor for the your child's work!

And now for more pictures:)

As always if you have any questions, comments or concerns, feel free to find me!

Until next time....

Mrs. Ford