Orientation Week - What is an investigation?

What a whirlwind of a week!  We were very busy making friends and learning expectations this week.

Students were introduced to the investigation process through a variety of problem solving challenges. 

Can you build a tower with marshmallows and spaghetti

Stack cups into a pyramid using only rubber bands and string.  

Putting all the investigation vocabulary together with our first scenario - Acme shoe company wants recyclable shoes.

Our first focus questions!

Each student decides how they want to connect with the scenario and what is important to them.  These kiddos wondered how to make popular styles, if the shoes could be waterproof, would the shoes be durable and safe to wear, or even appeal to the public.  So many connections to learning from one idea.

Students construct their theory - what they think will answer their focus question - and then test their ideas to see if it works.

Going above and beyond - excited to finish the project.

Students were so excited to continue the project beyond the time we had that they brought back their finished model the next day.  It features a popular design, waterproofing on the sole, and its own commercial, presentation ready.