dirt and water

Grade:	Kindergarten
Topic:	Characteristics of Water
Instructional Materials:	Earth’s Land & Water (DW)
*Special Instructions:	This assessment builds on activities detailed in the instructional materials and will need about two 45-minute periods. One component is a demonstration; the second is the assessment. The demonstration is essential. Note that you may get different results than we did (the soil passed the most water, followed by the sand then the clay). For the demonstration, set up 3 funnels (lined with coffee filters), as depicted in the ORKQ. The students should discuss anticipated results, as what happens may be unexpected. Then, pour a measured amount of water (taking this opportunity to discuss ‘fair testing’ as it applies to scientific investigations) slowly into the funnels, one by one, carefully watching until water stops dripping. Again, it is appropriate to discuss the results. For the assessment, have the students complete the ORKQ by marking up the sheets. Some students will need the explanations written for them.
MA LS (96 version):	Inquiry: Observe and describe familiar objects. What would happen if? Properties of Objects: Identify properties of matter. Give evidence that objects are made up of different materials.
MA LS (01 version):	K – 2 Earth Science: Recognize that water, rocks soil, and living organisms can be found on the Earth’s surface.
BPS LS:	Water flows, pours, is absorbed, etc.
Technology Connection:

*The teacher should encourage students to elaborate, give more than the minimum, and strive for a Level 4.

In order to achieve a Level 4, a student must go above and beyond what is asked. For example, the student gives more than the required minimum or makes additional connections.