During this CELL, students will perform activities and conduct experiments that will introduce them to the concept of using numbers when making and recording observations in the lab and when analyzing results from experiments. Through their explorations, students will come to a better understanding of different types of observations that can be made by counting objects, of ways by which samples collected in the lab can be compared, and of the use of addition and subtraction when performing experiments. In addition, they will have an opportunity to use three new tools in the lab and determine their functionality.

Students begin their investigation by collecting different colors and numbers of marbles. Students are encouraged to use counting to make observations of how many marbles they can collect. In addition, students are later asked to determine if the color of the background influenced the collection of different colors of marbles. As a result of their experiments, students learn that counting is one way in which data can be recorded so that it can be later compared and analyzed.

As a part of their investigations, students also collect two solids and one liquid with three lab tools and compare the quantities of the solids and liquid using the terms, “more than,” “less than,” “most,” and least.” Through this experiment, students will discern that each lab tool functions differently, resulting in the collection of different amounts of each solid and the liquid.

Students end their investigation by exploring the concepts of addition and subtraction and some of their roles in the field of science. As a part of their experiments, they will add and subtract small manipulatives to a falcon tube to see if it will float or sink. Through experiments, observation, and participation in class discussion, students will begin to comprehend that their natural curiosity and declaration and recording of observations provide them with the procedures they need to conduct investigations of the biological and physical world and to share the findings of these experiments. This Core Experience will promote students’ awareness of the mathematical processes used when making and recording observations as well as of the behaviors they perform on a daily basis, building continuity between laboratory investigations and real-world applications and encouraging independent investigation.

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Investigation 1: Counting

Investigation One introduces students to the idea of using math to make and record observations as they collect different amounts of marbles from a container of water. Through observation and experimentation, students will discover that counting and assigning a value to data allows them to compare different sets of data. In addition, they will begin to understand that the color of an object may allow that object to hide within its surroundings.

Investigation 1: Teacher’s Video (8:25)

 Investigation 1: Student’s Video (11:39)

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Investigation 2: Comparing Amounts      

In Investigation Two, students will add to their mathematical experience by investigating three different types of lab tools. Students will use a lab scoop, forceps, and plastic dropper to collect two solids and one liquid. Students will then compare their collected samples by using the terms “more than,” “less than,” “most,” and “least.” Their observations will enable them to realize that the structure and function of each tool result in differences in its ability to collect various solids and liquids.

Investigation 2: Teacher’s Video (7:39)

Investigation 2: Student’s Video (13:34)

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Investigation 3: Addition and Subtraction      

During Investigation Three, students will be introduced to the concepts of addition and subtraction. While performing several simple tests, students will determine whether a falcon tube sinks or floats as objects are added and subtracted from inside of the tube. As a result of their observations, students will learn that there is “more” when objects are added and that there is “less” when objects are subtracted.

Investigation 3: Teacher’s Video (13:03)

Investigation 3: Student’s Video (7:36)

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