Science in the Classroom (Magnificent Magnifiers)

I was unable to see science take place in the classroom on Wednesday, but I was able to see what they had done the previous day on this subject.  They focused on a topic called "Magnificent Magnifiers."  This is where they had observed different objects, sorted them into different categories and used that information to find a conclusion/decision. For their lesson, they were provided with key vocabulary, these words included; magnifier, transparent, and hand lens.
For the activity, each group was given a plastic magnifier, a glass jar you can see through and one you cannot, with a picture of a bird taped on the back.  They were asked to then collaborate with one another to figure out why you could not see the bird through one and why you could see the bird through the other using their magnifying glasses. Below is a picture of the objects they were given.

The students were given a data sheet to complete and put into their science journals.  The sheet gave them five different objects and it asked three questions for each.  These questions were; can you see through it?, is its top surface curved?, does it make things look bigger?.  Below, is an example of the data sheet a student had completed and pasted into their journal. 

This activity, Magnificent Magnifiers, is especially good for 1st graders because they are in a stage of cognitive development.  Cognitive development would be practiced by sorting all objects in a set by one property or pattern.  I am excited to see what other hands-on science activities the first graders will get to experience.  Hopefully, they will also enjoy the ones I will have for them to do!