Curiosity in Motion: Investigating Energy Through Hands-On Science

Maegan Banicki exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated and adaptable educator.  When Riverview Elementary School needed a new fourth-grade teacher mid-year, Maegan, a seasoned special education teacher, didn’t hesitate to step up!  She embraced the challenge of leading a brand-new class with energy, enthusiasm, and a commitment to student success.  

Faced with the task of teaching the 4th-grade science standards for the first time, Maegan turned to the Grade Level Certified (GLC) curriculum for guidance. This teacher-friendly curriculum, packed with structured, easy-to-follow, hands-on lab lessons and simple materials, allows Maegan to confidently guide her students through exciting science explorations.

“I like science because we get to do experiments and test things like a real scientist.”

In the Fast and Slow Bowling lab lesson part of the GLC Energy Explorers Unit, students investigate the relationship between the speed of an object and the object’s energy. Excitement fills the air as students use a marble, small wooden blocks and rulers to experiment with force, speed, acceleration and energy.  Working with their partners, students make predictions, run tests and document their observations in their GLC Student Data Notebook, just like a real scientist!

“It’s amazing how much information the kids have retained from labs they did weeks ago!”

Maegan witnessed firsthand the impact of GLC’s hands-on, inquiry-based approach. Students became more engaged in science and retained knowledge from previous lessons, recalling concepts weeks later with ease. The discussion questions in the teacher’s edition foster organic conversations, encouraging students to think critically and articulate their ideas with confidence.

Through her dedication, adaptability, and passion for student success, Maegan Banicki has created an environment where learning is active, curiosity is encouraged, and every student is empowered to explore, question and discover. Her journey is a testament to the power of teacher-driven, student-focused learning, proving that with the right tools and mindset, even unexpected challenges can lead to incredible growth and achievement.

Thank you, Maegan! for your commitment to inspiring young minds and making science come alive at Riverview Elementary!