This unit is designed to get first grade students involved in hands-on sensorial experiments. My hypothesis is that young students need to actively participate as scientists, not just observe demonstrations by the teacher or look at examples in books. Too many young children today are exposed to "information" from the world of computers, television, video games, and other synthesized media. Their knowledge is based on limited sensorial experiences, or even experiences with the wrong sense, for example seeing food being cooked on television or watching someone petting a dog. This curriculum unit will provide learning through true sensorial experiences. By giving students a chance to have these experiences, their brains will truly "grow smarter" as a result.

(Developed for Science, grade 1; recommended for Science, grades K-2)