Based on feedback from teachers last spring, we have planned a series of after school sessions supporting new content in the K-7 science curriculum. Each session will look at the learning standards around a specific grade and content area and teachers will experience both the curricular content and competencies through an inquiry-based approach. Connections to the core competencies and First Peoples Principles of Learning will be also be woven throughout the sessions.

Our third session (which we held two of due to high demand) looked at the grade 1 physical science content – light and sound.

Teachers were presented with provocations to invite them to think and play with ideas about light and sound.

Teachers paired up to look at an informational picture book which they summarized for their colleagues.

Some classic sound investigations were shared (i.e. different sized elastic bands taped over a yogurt container – plucking them invites students to think about pitch, tone and volume) and then each teacher received a light jar (available from thinkined.com).

Teachers were invited to investigate the materials and think about how the materials might inspire inquiry, investigations and an uncovering of curricular content.

As with our other sessions, we compiled ideas from teachers attending the sessions.

The darkness of winter days and all the celebrations that happen this time of year make it a great time to investigate and think about the properties of light and sound!

Grade 1 Light and Sound – curriculum information

Grade 1 Light and Sound Resources – links and book list

sound and light provocations – question prompts

~Janice