What I learned this thrilling week

This week I learned oh so much. I was reminded how important it is to work together in a team. We preformed an experiment testing friction. It was a simple experiment that would work well in grades 3-6. I cannot wait to try it out.

More technology fun

Working on our Technology Project

New technology makes learning about heat fun again!

       I am a third grade teacher and in order to teach Standard 5, objective 3 concerning friction I have come up with an innovative technique.  The materials needed are:  a computer with the logger program, a temperature wand, and groups of students in 5.  

Our main objective was to compare the amount of friction created when using different surfaces.  The surfaces we chose were:  wood, linoleum, polyester, cotton, and metal.  We wanted the students to physically see the differences that exist with friction when using different surfaces.  

        We preformed all of the experiments and quickly realized that we need a control temperature.  The control temperature that we used was 74 degrees F.  This was the temperature of the room.  We used this number to compare the amounts of heat produced by the friction.  Our first experiment was with the linoleum surface.  The temperature changed from 74.5 to 76.0 degrees Fahrenheit.  Our next experiment was with the polyester surface.  Our temperature started at 74.7-90.4 degrees.  This shows a rise in heat by 16.3 degrees.  The next surface we texted was with cotton.  Cotton started at 74 degrees and we ended with 84 degrees Fahrenheit, displaying a 10 point change.  The next experiment was with metal.  The temperatures ranged from 74-72.8.  The temperature actually went down 1.2 degrees in Fahrenheit.  Our last experiment was with wood.  The temperature started at 74 degrees and it ended on 75.5 degrees.  This is an increase of 1.5 degrees.  

      Our conclusion is that different surfaces create different amounts of friction.  The students will be able to clearly see and measure this through the computer program logger.  The thermometer gives the students to interact with technology and expand their horizons.    

Boy oh boy... TPAK

This week has been another stressful one in my technology class. I am first of all not sure if I have to submit another assignment besides this one, but in the case I am lucky I will just describe my experience with TPAK and hope for the best. TPAK enables teachers to use technology in a well-rounded atmosphere. It's goal is to create a balance in teaching with technology!

Another week of technology terror

I have learned this week that asking questions really does work.  I am just loving life every time I come to my technology class! 

Second Week of Technology Class

Well, here I am still alive after my second technology class. I am a bit confused on how everything works though. I am not sure I am getting credit cuz I don't know my blog and moodle are connected. Somehow I missed that detail. I learned how to use RSS this week!

Cheryl is nervous about new technology class @ BYU

Today is my first day in my new technology class.  Those of you who know a little about my background in this area might already have a smile on your face, those of you who do not know about my area of expertise, just know that it is a miracle that I have made it this far.  I will be documenting my ride through this class.  I cannot tell you how thrilled I am.  Finally... my own blog full of technological discoveries!!