GPS Summer Shark Splash Week 5

Can you figure out what melts fastest in the sun? Let’s become scientists and find out.

🧪 Your Mission:
Design and run your own melting experiment to explore how the sun’s energy affects different materials.

🔍 What You Need:

• A sunny spot & a shaded spot

• Timer or clock ⏱️

• Plate or tray

• A few small items (choose 3–5):

• Ice cube

• Crayon

• Chocolate chips

• Mini marshmallow

• Cheese slice

• Butter

Steps:

1. Predict: Which item will melt first? Which will not melt at all?

2. Set up your experiment: Place your items in the sun and/or compare with a shaded area.

3. Observe: Start your timer and record how long each item takes to melt—or if it melts at all.

4. Analyze: Which item melted fastest? Slowest? Why?

5. Extend: Try covering one item with foil or a paper towel to test insulation. What happens?

Bonus Extension

Create a solar cooker to make a s’more! Please send a picture of your creation to gps_summerschool@greenwich.k12.ct.us

Reading together at home—even just 15–20 minutes a day—can make a huge difference in your child’s academic growth and confidence. Here are some research-based strategies to support reading and make it a joyful part of your routine:

📖 1. Let Your Child Choose the Book
Research shows that choice increases motivation. Let your child pick books that interest them—even if it is a comic, graphic novel, or nonfiction book about sharks.

👂 2. Read Aloud, Even with Older Kids
Reading aloud builds vocabulary, comprehension, and a love of language—even in upper elementary and middle school. Take turns reading or model fluency by reading with expression.

🧠 3. Pause to Talk About the Book
Ask open-ended questions like: “What do you think will happen next?” “How do you think the character feels?” “Would you have made the same choice?” This builds comprehension and critical thinking.

🗣️ 4. Make Connections
Help your child relate the story to their own life, another book, or the world. This deepens understanding and helps them see the purpose of reading.

🔁 5. Reread Favorites
It might feel repetitive, but rereading boosts word recognition and fluency. Each time, kids notice something new.

💬 6. Talk About Words
Pause to explain tricky words or find them in other books throughout the week. Building vocabulary happens one word at a time.

📚 7. Be a Reading Role Model
Let your child see you reading for fun. Talk about books you love, magazines you read, or articles you found interesting.