Fire Island Students Become “Scientists in the Sand” with Interactive Learning Experience

Woodhull School students turned their classrooms into lively science labs this week as teachers partnered with BOCES environmental educators to bring hands-on science to life on Fire Island for their recent environmental education days.

First and second graders dove into the characteristics of matter, using their senses and a little imagination to explore the world around them. Blindfolded, they identified rocks by touch alone, comparing textures, weights, and shapes like budding geologists.

The excitement continued as students churned their own homemade butter, observing how liquids transform into solids. The best part came at the end as they taste-tested their scientific success.

Then came a question that had everyone guessing: “What state of matter is oobleck?” With sticky fingers and curious minds, students experimented with the mysterious substance: a slime-like mixture of cornstarch and water that switches from a liquid to solid form when applied with pressure. The experience led students to discover that science is just as much about asking questions as it is about finding answers.

Meanwhile, third and fourth graders took on the role of junior naturalists, practicing how scientists classify objects found in nature. Using observation and reasoning, they learned how to group and name items based on shared characteristics. Their lesson ended with an unexpected thrill as students took an a close-up look at a real snake skin, sparking lively discussions about animal habitats, adaptation, and the wonders of the natural world.

“This kind of hands-on learning helps our students see science as something they can touch, feel, and explore,” said Superintendent/Principal Travis Davey. “It connects classroom lessons to the real world in ways that stick with them.”

From butter to oobleck to snake skins, Fire Island’s young scientists are proving that curiosity is the best classroom tool of all.

To learn more about the Fire Island Free School District, please visit the District's website at https://www.fi.k12.ny.us/. Happenings in the District can also be followed on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/FireIslandSchoolDistrict/.