Experiences like this make science come alive for children, and they are better able to move beyond seeing it solely as a classroom subject. They are on wheels so that they can be shared among classrooms. The whole class can then view the image at the same time. Some of the interactive CD-ROMs I use include Cell Search from Science for Kids, Exploring Aeronautics from NASA, The Plant That Wouldn't Grow from Science Sleuths, and The Magic School Bus Inside the Earth from Microsoft. In The Plant That Wouldn't Grow , the class is presented with a mystery about a plant with stunted growth.
Students have to perform various tests on the plant to decide what the plant's problem is.
Each child takes a turn at the board, performing the necessary tests or accessing information on the CD about plants. When someone thinks he knows the answer, he enters it to see if he is right. This activity allows the students to use what they already know about plants and apply that information in a fun way. The creative instruction made possible by technology motivates students and encourages independent learning. At our school, the biggest thing that the 4th graders look forward to in 5th grade is getting their laptops.