Pendulum Investigation

An inquiry investigation to launch our study of physics:

what are the properties of a pendulum? We thought about several questions:

·        Will the period (one back and forth swing, or oscillation) be different for different masses?  If so, will it be less (swing faster) or greater (swing more slowly) if a heavier mass is used?

·        Will the period be different for different length pendulums?  Will it decrease (swing faster) or increase (swing more slowly) if a longer string is used?

·        Will the period be different for different starting angles (amplitudes)?

·        What factors are involved?

·        How will control those factors that you are not testing?

A large part of the work involved in this investigation was thinking about how to measure and record data, as well as the actual physics involved. A great start to a fascinating unit of study!

Greek Architecture

A little hands-on exploration (and art integration) of the three orders of Greek architecture:

Auction Art Project

This year, while taking swimming lessons at the Norpoint Center, the Olympians admired some abstract artwork hanging on the walls. In the lobby, we found coaster tiles made with the same poured paint technique, which everyone thought looked pretty cool. We liked it so much we decided to contact the local artist who made the pieces, Darlene LeMaster, to see if she would help us with our art project for the Seabury auction.

Darlene was delighted to help out, and she started by spending a lot of time explaining the process and helping the teachers identify the supplies needed. Then she came in to lead us through the process.

Each student chose three colors of paint to "pour," turning a cup upside down on each tile to make a swirled or marble effect.

Every set turned out beautifully!

The second step was pouring a thick resin over the tiles to give them a gleaming sheen.

Every student was really pleased with what they created. Many said it was the best art project they had ever done.

After making our individual coaster sets, we used the same technique to create a large triptych, which was sold for a tidy sum at the Seabury auction.

Thanks so much, Darlene, for helping us create some amazing art!

UW Engineering Day

An inspiring day spent celebrating science and scientific discovery at the University of Washington in Seattle - we hope to make this an annual occurrence!