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What is a Scientist?

Class Title: What is a Scientist?
Audience: Kindergarten
Offered: 1st Quarter
Length: 1 hr. 25minutes (look-around time in the Exploration Hall included)

Preparing for this Class:

1. A portion of the class will be outside, so participants should dress accordingly.
2. In case of inclement weather, alternate activities will be held inside.

I. Class Description

Students will begin by using their observation skills in our Exploration Hall for 10 - 15 minutes. After moving into the classroom, students will share observations and perhaps ask a few questions about what they observed. The introductory discussion will relate to the nature of science and the kinds of things scientists do. Students will practice making observations, a basic science skill, and then, Sammy the Squirrel puppet, will interact with the students and help them focus on the rest of the scientific method, i.e., making observations (including measuring), asking questions, and doing experiments. Students will them move outside and rotate through two activities:

1. Kindergarten Basswood Tree Visit - Students will make various observations & measurements of a nearby Basswood tree, focusing on its shape and characteristics of its leaves (a set of laminated leaves will be used). Students will practice using tools, a magnifier and ruler, like a scientist.
2. Unnatural Trail Hike - This hike is an exercise in observing, remembering and describing. Students will use their sense of sight to silently search for various unnatural/man-made familiar objects that Quarry Hill staff have placed along a trail. Students will finish their hike by trying to remember and describe as many of the objects as possible. A twin set of objects will be available to confirm students' descriptions.

II. Correlation to MN Science Standards

1. Use observations to develop an accurate description of a natural phenomenon and compare one's observations and descriptions with those of others. (0.1.1.2.1)
2. Sort objects into two groups: those that are found in nature and those that are human made. (0.1.2.1.1)
3. Sort objects in terms of color, size, shape, and texture, and communicate reasoning for the sorting system. (0.2.1.1.1)
4. Differentiate between living and nonliving things. (0.4.1.1.3)
5. Observe a natural system or its model, and identify living and nonliving components in that system. For example: A wetland, prairie, garden or aquarium. (0.4.2.1.1)
6. Recognize that tools are used by people, including scientists and engineers, to gather information and solve problems. (1.1.3.2.1)

III. Science Vocabulary (*denotes a Quarry Hill vocabulary word)

scientist experiment color

science experimenting plant

observation measure size

observing *natural *unnatural

IV. Classroom Extension

1. Read the book What is a Scientist? By Barbara Lehn

After completion of one of these programs please fill out and submit our evaluation form. You may fill it out and submit it online, or print it out and mail it to Quarry Hill Nature Center. Thank you for your time!