Earth Model Update

Last week we started working on our Earth models. Right now, the focus is on the interior layers. The students calculated how thick each layer should be so our models will be to scale. Next, they marked the layers on the ball then painted. All the models are off to a great start! Thank you to everyone who made a donation to help support this project!

The Earth's Interior

Over the past few days, we've been focusing on the interior of the Earth. We learned that scientists use seismic waves to determine that there are layers. When the waves pass through a layer that has different properties, the waves bend. We also learned about the 4 main layers of the Earth...the crust, mantle, outer core and inner core. They all have very different properties. Refer to your notes if you can't remember how they're different from each other. In addition, we learned about 2 very special layers: the lithosphere and the asthenosphere. The CRUST AND THE UPPERMOST MANTLE make up the brittle outer layer called the lithosphere. This layer is broken into large pieces called plates. We'll be learning more about these in the weeks to come. The asthenosphere is a thin layer directly below the lithosphere. This layer is slightly melted and acts kind-of like silly-putty...moving very,very slowly.

We also learned that there are convection currents in the asthenosphere and in the outer core. The currents of the outer core create Earth's magnetic field.

Have anything you want to share about the interior of the Earth? Did you find anything to be particularly interesting?

Our Dynamic Earth!

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Making Observations

This week we started learning about some skills that scientists use. Being able to record accurate observations is one of these skills. Scientists need to record both qualitative and quantitative observations. Below are some photos showing students as they practice making observations.

7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens

Last week we were focusing on skills that would help us be successful middle schoolers...in science, on the playground, in PE, language arts, and every other aspect of school. The skills you learned will also be beneficial as a high schooler, college student, and adult. I know that several of you have already tried using a few of these skills and indicated that they have been helpful. It is my goal (begin with the end in mind!) to continue to re-visit these habits throughout the school year.

Did any of you hear something last week that really made you think about your life? Next time a difficult situation comes up, do you think you will handle it differently? Any thoughts about the 7 habits you'd like to share?