The Challenge:  Across Kentucky, concern about science performance continues to grow. As Education Commissioner Robbie Fletcher stated, “We need to see improvement in our science scores across all grade levels.” Kentucky Academic Standards for Science Focus Standard: 4-PS3-4 – Apply scientific ideas to design, test, and refine a device that converts energy from one form to another.  At local elementary schools, teachers observed a key issue: while 4th grade students could memorize science facts, they struggled to apply those ideas in real-life contexts—especially when learning about energy conversion. Science often felt abstract and disconnected from their everyday experiences.  

 The Action Plan: To bridge this gap, Extension 4-H Agent Gary Druin launched a hands-on, project-based learning unit called the "4-H Physics Zoo." Rooted in the 4-H philosophy of helping youth discover their "spark"—a passion or skill that drives learning—the unit was designed to ignite students' curiosity and make science meaningful.

Using the 5E Instructional Model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate), students:

• Explored simple machines to understand energy transformations
• Built simple electric motors using magnets and electricity
• Investigated light reflection and refraction to understand how we see the world
• Learned about fluid mechanics and how fluid movement affects energy and force

The hands-on activities were deeply connected to students’ daily lives, helping make abstract concepts more tangible.

Outcomes:  

Student Engagement Soared: 100% of students actively participated in discussions, investigations, and device design iterations.
Science Scores Improved: End-of-unit assessment scores increased compared to the 2203 previous unit, with most students demonstrating proficiency of energy concepts.
Collaboration & Communication: Students shared feedback with peers using proper scientific vocabulary, deepening understanding.
Real-World Connections:

“Now I know how circuits are connected in my home and why they're important for our everyday lives!” – Kayla, 4th Grade Student

Teacher Reflection

“This was the first time I saw every student genuinely excited about science. By giving them ownership and a hands-on experience, they became problem solvers and critical thinkers.”
 – Mrs. Porter, 4th Grade Teacher, Beaver Dam Elementary

Next Steps:  Following the success of the 4-H Physics Zoo unit, local schools plan to integrate more 4-H Science, Engineering, and Technology (SET) challenges. These will support the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science while preparing students for more complex middle school science content.