5th Grade Inquires: Can We Bear Proof a Trash Can?

As part of their Where We are in Place and Time unit, 5th graders inquired into building a bear proof trash can.  

To investigate the line of inquiry, human exploration and discovery through the scientific process, students learned about the design process and how to test a product.  To begin this study, students responded to the scenario of needing to keep bears away from human food and trash in a national park.  They worked collaboratively in groups to sketch a design, build a model and present the model to the class.  To extend their learning, students then collaborated to create their own testable question with one variable.  This group tested their predictions using cars, a ramp and measuring stick.  Check out some of their ideas!