Inspiring Scientific Inquiry in IB PYP Grade 3
Our IB PYP Grade 3 students recently experienced an unforgettable day of hands-on learning as we welcomed a special guest, Mr. Ivan, a dedicated physics and mathematics student with a passion for making complex ideas accessible and engaging for young minds.
During this interactive session, students were introduced to the fascinating world of invisible forces through practical demonstrations designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding. With a strong focus on inquiry-based learning, Mr. Ivan encouraged students to observe, question, and experiment like real scientists.
One of the highlights of the visit was the creation of a “mini-universe.” Using a blanket to represent space, students explored how planets move by rolling balls around heavier objects, discovering how curved paths and balanced forces can create orbits. By using oranges as model planets, they learned the core concept behind gravity – that larger objects exert a stronger pull, and that gravitational force increases as objects move closer together.
The session was filled with meaningful scientific exploration. Students developed hypotheses and tested their ideas through hands-on experiments, including:
- Measuring the height of falling objects
- Testing the speed of rolling balls
- Exploring forces of attraction
- Investigating air friction
- Discovering static electricity
These activities allowed students to observe cause and effect, analyze outcomes, and draw their own conclusions, strengthening both their scientific thinking and confidence as learners.
The classroom was alive with curiosity, thoughtful questions, and moments of genuine discovery. It was inspiring to see students actively engaged, collaborating, and sharing ideas as they explored new concepts.
We extend our sincere thanks to Mr. Ivan for his time, enthusiasm, and ability to bring science to life in such a memorable way. Experiences like this play an important role in nurturing a lifelong love of learning, and our students are already excited for the next opportunity to explore science together.
