Grade 3 Arcade Game Open House: Science in Action!

To begin the unit, students explored different types of forces through engaging, real-world experiences. With the help of Ms. Dearden in Outdoor Education, learning came to life outside through activities such as tug-of-war (muscular force), sled pulling (friction), and designing parachutes (gravity). Students also observed forces in nature, like the wind pushing leaves, and even tested their understanding of strong and stable structures by building snow chairs sturdy enough for their teachers to sit on! Collaboration was at the heart of every activity. Students learned about four important group roles: the Director, the Doer, the Inquirer, and the Inspirer. Using these roles, they then worked in teams of three to four to design and build their own arcade games.

Each game had to meet specific criteria: it needed to demonstrate at least two forces and be strong and stable enough to stand on its own. From brainstorming ideas to constructing their designs, students were fully involved in every step of the process. They safely used specialized tools to cut cardboard, secured structures with screws, and brought their creations to life with paint, decorations, and creative names. Each group also created an informative poster explaining their game, the forces involved, and how to play.

The project culminated yesterday in the Grade 3 Arcade Game Open House, where the entire Junior School was invited to come and play. The event was a huge success! The Grade 3 students eagerly shared their games, explained the science behind them, and celebrated their hard work. This project was a wonderful example of creativity, collaboration, and applied learning - well done, Grade 3!

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