Penderlea’s third graders are buzzing with excitement about science! Using the new Carolina Science curriculum from Smithsonian, our students have been exploring the fascinating world of motion patterns. This week, they conducted an investigation to answer the question, “Which materials are attracted to a magnet?” By experimenting with various objects, they observed and identified patterns in the data, learning that magnets exert a magnetic force and attract specific metals. The students recorded their findings and analyzed the patterns to determine which materials magnets do and do not attract.
In addition to our curriculum, our students are also benefiting from hands-on learning with the Pender County Master Gardeners. This year, they’ve explored topics such as the different types of soil, composting, and, most recently, growing potatoes using compost. The master gardeners have guided the students through investigations to understand plant structures and functions, emphasizing how essential plants are for life. Our current focus is examining how environmental factors impact plant growth and survival, as we continue to nurture plants from seed to fully grown specimens. Next month, we will learn about pollinators and even get to speak with a local beekeeper!
Having strong science experiences in third grade helps students with critical thinking and it encourages curiosity. Our students are able to ask questions and seek answers through observation and experimentation. These skills are not only important for science but also for other areas of learning and everyday life.