February 22nd, 2021

Science: Journey or Destination?

The science team was presented with a fun challenge of creating a key for an assessment sample from the Wonder of Science.  Fifth grade teacher-extraordinaire, Lynn Story reached out requesting the solution to identifying the mystery location presented in an assessment from theWonderofScience.com.  She explained that her students were engrossed in the exercise and were looking for confirmation.  

Lightbulb!  The science team offered to meet with Ms. Story’s students the following week so they could present their evidence that supported their answers. We couldn’t wait to meet the students to hear their responses, but there was something big missing - we didn’t know the REAL answer!  How exciting!  And what a great opportunity to dive into the reality of scientists all over the world!  Of course, we wanted to give it a go. So on a Friday evening, with puzzled looks from our spouses, we started to work.  After Googling any possible answers unsuccessfully, we rolled up our sleeves and engaged in the exercises of the assessment.  Texting back and forth, the team couldn’t come to an agreed upon location and ended with high hopes that the 5th graders at Leawood could set us straight. ​

Where was this video shot?

The time-lapse video provides clues that guide students to identifying the location of the video.  Additional data such as length of shadows at specific times throughout the day, compass direction of the shadow, and temperatures offer further hints to help narrow down the location.

 We won’t ruin your own fun, but rest assured the students at Leawood provided convincing evidence for their responses.  Lynn Story also reached out to Paul Anderson, creator of the assessment from the WonderofScience.com and Bozeman Science on YouTube, who confirmed her students’ responses!  

If your students want to stump the science team or share their learning adventures, please reach out!

Yay Science,
Megan Hurley and Cathy Goodheart