6th Grade Ecology
Students are applying what they learn about experimental design to their science fair projects as they continue to develop their ideas. It becomes apparent that some ideas are interesting but may not be measurable, while other ideas may seem mundane but can yield good data and have real-world importance.

7th and 8th Grade Physical Science
Students are learning the basics of how vectors and scalars are used in physics. Addition of simple vectors at 90 degree angles using the Pythagorean theorem is used to explore how vectors can help us understand complex interactions between airplanes and crosswinds or boats and water currents, as well as multiple forces interacting with a single object.

Field Trip
Students in grades 6-8 participated in a field trip at Lost Hill Park, 4705 N Farm Rd 151, Springfield, MO 65803, to learn about local history, ecology, and community. Students learned how to use hammers and splitting wedges to make split-rail fencing out of cedar trunks that had been cleared out of the forest. It was explained to students that Native Americans once set regular, controlled fires throughout the forests that kept cedar tree populations from dominating the area and allowed for more biodiversity. Using the trunks as fencing is a way to utilize an otherwise untapped resource. A hike allowed students to see some of the interesting geology in the area, as well as a remarkably old burr oak tree. Park representatives shared examples of spear points that have been found in the area, evidence of over 10,000 years of human habitation. Students unleashed their inner lumberjack and filled their brains as they gave back to the community.