SAVY Saturday, Week 1, Space Academy (3rd-4th)
What an exciting first day of Space Academy: A Study in Exploration! SAVY Space Cadets were eager to learn about everything from daily routines in space to the challenges and physics of space travel.
Our key learning today was about the Scientific Method. Throughout the day, we applied the scientific method during two experiments. Our first experiment tackled the question, “How do astronauts eat fresh food in space?” We learned about plant farming in space from a NASA Aerospace Engineer, and students were surprised to learn that plants do not actually need soil to grow! To put this new knowledge to the test, students created mini hydroponic greenhouses and are currently growing various plants in our SAVY classroom to simulate how astronauts grow fresh food during space travel. Students will observe their greenhouses over the next few weeks, analyze any changes, and report progress. Ask your student how they made their greenhouse and which seeds they planted!
Our second experiment aimed to explore the following questions: “How do astronauts entertain themselves in space?”, “Do toys behave the same way in space as they do on Earth?”, and “What role does gravity play in toy behavior?” Using the scientific method, we developed hypotheses and conducted experiments to investigate these ideas. Astronauts interacted with five toys—a boomerang, marbles, a top, a soccer ball, and a yo-yo. First, we observed and recorded how these toys behaved on Earth. Then, we analyzed videos of NASA astronauts playing with the same toys in space, noting key differences. By comparing our observations, we sparked engaging discussions about the effects of gravity on Earth and in space.
Toward the end of the day, we put our physicist hats on and studied the four forces of flight, Bernoulli’s principle, and aerodynamics. Students applied their knowledge by comparing airplanes and birds– noticing that the four forces of flight apply to both, and each share a similar design.
Our overarching theme for this SAVY session is Exploration. If you want to extend learning this week, consider reading some Space Poetry. I recommend “Moonlight” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, “Moon” by Amy E. Sklansky, or “Science-Fiction Cradlesong” by C.S. Lewis. As you read, look for connections to space and exploration!
It’s going to be a fantastic couple of weeks at Space Academy! Next week, we will embark on an extensive exploration of the Solar System with stops at the International Space Station, the Sun, and the Moon. Until next time, stay safe and reach for the stars!
Ms. Jahn