I have tried taking whole classes out and either purchasing a soda from machine while they record observations. This year I showed a photo some students took with digital camera, mainly to give them a perspective shot for drawing the cube model shape. Solution might be established. Draw the model shape on 8.5X11 paper. I found that most 7th graders need lesson in drawing 3D cube shape.
Students proceed at very different speeds.
Great time to visit with small groups and individuals, finding natural cooperatives, and getting to know how they think, express, work. In terms of actual content I want to reinforce, this is important for me as we will move into weather studies, and the water cycle specifically. 6.Give students large drawing papers as they solve problems effectively on drafts. About this point it is homework, and I give them several days. I've found that if I set up the next couple class days with activities that students finish at different times, students will take out their models and add detail, color, etc.