Description
Although this terrific interdisciplinary, cooperative-learning science experience began primarily as a language arts assignment to compare the leadership skills of two fascinating men, it grew to encompass an exploration of ice's properties and taught students important cooperative-group skills and science concepts. As a result of this experience, students gained a newfound respect for life and an appreciation of the importance of a work ethic, goal setting, problem solving, taking informed risks, working in a group, and communicating effectively. This free selection includes the Table of Contents and Introduction.
Ideas For Use
Although the investigations were conducted with advanced students who were able to design their own experiments, variations on the ice-block investigation could be adapted for students of different learning levels. For example, rather than having students design their own investigation, cooperative groups might compete to see which group cold melt the ice the quickest. The challenge for the students would be to choose the materials and procedures they feel will melt the ice the quickest and solve the problems.