SGES Kindergarteners Learn about Weather and Transportation
by Edie Jensen
May 26, 2008
Dr. Chris Culbertson, KSU Chemistry Professor, joined his son's class one morning while they were learning about weather. He entered the room in an "Indiana Jones" hat and the adventures began! He shared the coldest and hottest temperatures in the world as well as the universe. We should all appreciate the weather we have here!
The students gained a better understanding of what takes place in a cloud throughout the various weather seasons as Dr. Culbertson showed them what happens to the air inside a balloon when exposed to different temperatures. He stuffed seven large balloons into a styrofoam chest filled with liquid nitrogen as he compared the coldness of the liquid nitrogen to cold places in the world and our universe. Just seeing him fit the balloons into the chest was magical. It looked impossible! The students watched, in awe as he removed seven smaller, raisin-like balloons from the cooler chest. This is what happens to invisible water molecules when they get cold. They get smaller.
Students were taught about the odors emitted by various plants and bugs which protect them from pests and predators.
This was especially timely with the arrival of Spring and growth of new plants in the area.
A few days later Mr. David Brown joined Mrs. Jensen's class for his son's Star Student presentation. He brought along his big rig, which he uses to move houses from all over the country.
It is very big and has a specialized hitch to allow him to adjust to the house he is hauling. The motor was the biggest anyone had ever seen! It could pull a mega-sized load. Best of all, everyone had a turn at pulling the cord to sound the horn. It was a real "blast"!
