Incredible Melting Ice

For this activity, students were asked to predict how a variety of objects would be affected by heat.  To start off I divided the class into four groups and gave them a 'Jigsaw' paper with pictures of objects glued to the center.  Each group predicted and recorded what they thought would happen if heat was added to those objects.  After a few minutes we came back together as a class and shared our thinking.  Then we sang the Science Rock song, Changes.
Now it was time to explore!  Each group was given the challenge...Which group could melt their ice the fastest?  They were asked to brainstorm creative ways within their group and then a time keeper for each group was chosen.  Then the race was on!  Oh my goodness, what student engagement!!!
After about 4 minutes, we had a group winner.   Everyone came back together as a class to discuss the changes in matter that took place.  We also had a great discussion which involved additional notice/wonder questions. Now that everyone had a opportunity to participate in this great learning activity they have now become the experts on this subject, so...
Mrs. Walker, a first grade teacher in Houston sent an email asking my class for their help.   I projected her email on my whiteboard so they could all read it.  Once again they were up for another challenge and got right to work.  Without much guidance many of my students chose the app Educreations to show/explain their thinking to her students of how heat can change matter. They did an incredible job.  I am very proud of them and I had a GREAT formative assessment!