Links:
SEE THE GLASS BECOME SEA GLASS!
OBJECTIVE:
Develop a method to create sea glass using regular glass.
Write the method as a lab experiment.
Run the experiment and attempt to make sea glass.
PRIOR LEARNING:
Seventh grade middle school science instruction should include the mechanisms of weathering and erosion.
Following directions in a lab exercise is should be part of seventh and eighth grade middle school science instruction.
MATERIALS:
Computer with internet access. (For research.)
On hand: broken glass in colors (check out local recycling center or grocery store), baby food jars with lids, empty glass jars with lids, beakers, pebbles, sand, vinegar, salt, water. *Materials students request!
Goggles
WEB SITES/SUGGESTIONS:
http://westcoastseaglass.net/about_seaglass.html
www.americancraftworks.com/TheStoryofSeaglass.html
https://secure.downeast.com/store/product.php?id=245
http://www.tulane.edu/~sanelson/eens211/weathering&clayminerals.htm
http://www.geography4kids.com/files/land_weathering.html
http://www.geography4kids.com/files/land_erosion.html
ROLES IN LESSON:
STUDENT:
Independently design an experiment to create faux sea glass.
Formally write the method and conduct the experiment.
TEACHER
Provide materials students request.
Ensure safety of students during experimentation.
Guide students in research and experimental process.
Maintain focus of classroom.
WRAP UP:
Students will have created sea glass replicas.
A formal lab is written with instructions on the creation of sea glass. (Format of formal lab is at the teachers discretion.)
Students decide the fate of their sea glass.
ASSESSMENT:
See the glass become sea glass rubric.
Allow students to evaluate their work using the rubric as well.
NEW YORK STATE STANDARDS:
STANDARD 1
Students will use mathematical analysis, scientific inquiry, and engineering design, as appropriate, to pose questions, seek answers, and develop solutions
Key Idea 2:
Beyond the use of reasoning and consensus, scientific inquiry involves the testing of proposed explanations involving the use of conventional techniques and procedures and usually requiring considerable ingenuity.
Major Understandings
2.3a Hypotheses are predictions based upon both research and observation.
2.3c Development of a research plan for testing a hypothesis requires planning to avoid bias (e.g., repeated trials, large sample size, and objective data-collection techniques).
PRENTICE HALL LE REVIEW BOOK:
Topic 8
Scientific Inquiry and Skills
EXTENSION IDEA:
Ask students what they would like the fate of their sea glass to be.
(silver cord to make jewelry, decorate, display case and story in school display cabinet, etc.)