submitted by Erin Clary, Communications Specialist, New Lebanon CSD
With lab tables, microscopes, goggles, a Smart Board, even an eye wash station, the new science room at the Walter B. Wood Elementary School has the makings of a complete high school laboratory. The new science classroom was installed this summer and fall.
What is normally reserved for the junior and senior high school level, is available at WBH for k through 6 students. The elementary school students will study science through participation in hands-on and observational activities.
Students will have the opportunity to conduct real experiments because they no longer have to pack everything up after the allotted 30 to 40 minute assigned science time.
According to Elementary Science Coordinator Becky Griffith, the room is truly innovative as most elementary school programs do not include this kind of classroom.
“Kids learn the best when they have hands-on activities, not just hearing about science from their teacher,” she said. “The fun part about learning is the experimental aspect and discovery; it sparks their interest in investigation.”
The room features moveable furniture to allow students in the room to build and create. For example, third grade students recently used the space to create and collapse structures.
Griffith said the room will be used year round by all grade levels. Primary grade levels will use the space just as much as the older students.
Future projects will include the use of a grow station for a plant unit where students can control the variables by different light sources. Students in grades five and six will also participate in lessons that incorporate their math curriculum.
“The room allows students to get a real STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) experience from the start,” said Griffith.