Washington GT Magnet Elementary School

3-5 Electives

Science

AERONAUTICS - AG
The characteristics and composition of the layers of the atmosphere will be studied. Students will demonstrate, through experiments, Newton’s Law of Motion and the Bernoulli Principles. The study of air pressure and how balloons, jets, rockets, and propeller planes fly will be emphasized. Manned and unmanned flights from the Montgolflier Brothers' balloons to the present-day space shuttle will be explored. Students will have the opportunity to launch flights of their own.

ARCHAEOLOGY – AG
Archaeology is the study of past cultures and a popular subject with elementary students. This elective is designed for gifted students or high-achieving learners because of its complexity of content, its interplay between science and humanities, and its abstract ideas which require critical thinking and creativity. Critical thinking skills are emphasized as students engage in experiential learning, scientific inquiry, productive thinking, experimentation, and the simulation of an archaeological dig. Students are introduced to the skills needed for an independent research project and are given a choice of topic, in keeping with each student’s particular interests and learning styles. Children will learn to appreciate the science of archaeology and realize that we all are “stewards of the past.”

BLOOMING BOTANY
In this course students will dig in dirt, play with plants, sample seeds, look at leaves, and explore ecosystems. Students will learn all plant parts, names, functions, plant uses,
plant propagation and how they interact with their surrounding environment.

BUZZ ON BEES
This course is a fun “hands on” learning experience for 3rd, 4th and 5th graders. In this elective students will learn about the value of honeybees to man and nature. Throughout the elective students will learn how a beekeeper works the honeybees and how the honeybees work for themselves in a social community. This elective uses beekeeping equipment and tools, videos showing honeybees and beekeepers at work, books, and a honey tasting party to end the elective. No live bees are used.

GEOLOGY - AG
Rocks, Minerals, Volcanoes, Earthquakes and Crystals! In Geology, students will dig in and learn about the Earth, its movement throughout history, the rumblings within and the varieties of rocks, minerals, and crystals, which are created underneath the Earth’s surface. This elective is full of hands-on projects to keep the students on their toes and motivated to learn. Come join the fun!

INSECT STUDY
Eight of every ten animals on earth are insects. This course introduces the student to the world of insects and their kin. There will be an opportunity to collect, observe, and investigate the common insects found in our area. Students will learn about beneficial and harmful insects and the role they play in the environment.

KITCHEN CHEMISTRY
Students will have the opportunity to observe, estimate, experiment, and record chemical and physical changes using common household items.

MAMMALS ARE AMAZING
From this course, students will develop an appreciation of mammals and their natural habitats. Through integrated activities, they will study mammals such as chimpanzees, raccoons, giraffes, bats, kangaroos, platypuses, and whales.

RAIN FOREST
Do you know the difference between a jungle and a rain forest? Can you name more than one type of rain forest? In this course learners will be studying about the different types of rain forests and where they are located. They will research a variety of animals that call the rain forest home and determine which layer of the rain forest they live in. By the end of the course, learners should have an appreciation of the many products that originate in the rain forest and the importance of protecting its existence.

RECYCLING
We don’t all love things that are rotten, raggedy, and rusty like Oscar the Grouch. So, what do we do? Did you say throw it out? Oh, no my friends. Now more than ever we must use the 3 R’s: Reduce, reuse and RECYCLE! In this class, students will learn that it is our responsibility to recycle in order to save our natural resources like oil, minerals, trees, animals and water. We will learn that by reducing trash we can “starve the landfills” protecting other natural spaces. We can save energy and space by reusing products. We will explore composting, recycling, and material recovery facilities. So, don’t be a “grouch” like Oscar. Join with us and do your part-RECYCLE!

SIMPLE MACHINES
Students will learn about machines the old fashioned way: BY BUILDING THEM! Using Lego kits, students will explore the world of simple machines. They will demonstrate a real understanding for what makes things work by constructing machines with moving parts.

VOLTS, OHMS, WATTS
Volts, Ohms, and Watts provides a look at how magnetism and electricity is produced, allows opportunities for experimentation with circuitry, and encourages construction of several simple electrical devices. Students will also create their own compass and electromagnet through hands-on experiments.

WATER, OH PRECIOUS WATER!
Although listed under science, this elective integrates math, social studies, language arts, and science focusing on the subject of water. Instruction provides an interesting integration of earth cycles, mixtures and solutions, and the use of natural resources. The course is designed to involve students in hands-on experiences which will strengthen process skills. Children will develop an ongoing portfolio of their work during this elective.

WHAT MAKES IT TICK?
Students will be taking apart and analyzing a varied assortment of items, such as a watch, or a clock. They will be taught how parts are interdependent and how the parts of a simple item can be correctly assembled.

ZOOLOGY – AG
Zoology deals with animal life, growth, classification, and behavior. Wildlife conservation and careers in working with animals will be studied.

Washington GT Magnet Elementary School
Phone: (919) 856-7960 / Fax: (919) 856-7985