What are the parts of a scooter and how does it work?

As part of inquiry into how things work, we pulled apart a scooter. We had to collaborate and work together as we dismantled it.

A few days later we had to put it back together. We made some hypotheses before we began, then reflected on our learning after we completed it.  We were surprised at how much we had learned about tools, scooter parts and how to put all the parts together. It didn’t take as long as we thought to put it back together, and apparently it now goes better than it did before.

Hypotheses and reflections about putting the scooter back together:

Hypothesis: I think it is going to be difficult because we would not know where the bolts and clamp go.

Reflection: My hypothesis was wrong because it was easy. Next time I would keep the bolts in the right place so we don’t get confused. I felt very scared because I thought we couldn’t put the scooter back together.
Frankie

Hypothesis: I think it is going to be very hard because there are lots of bits and bobs, and we don’t really know where everything goes.

Reflection: I was incorrect because it was quite easy to put the scooter back together. Next time I would listen to Dawn so I know what to do better because she told us where everything goes like the bolts and the wheels.
Topaz

Hypothesis: Miss Collins didn’t think the scooter would be put back together. She thinks there will be parts left over.

Reflection: Gianni enjoyed being a part if the group and helping to put the scooter back together. Miss Collins’ hypothesis was wrong. The scooter is back together better than ever. We all had a turn at trying it out. Next time we should all listen to each other more and try each other’s ideas. Gianni is learning to take turns and to join in with the class.
Gianni

Hypothesis: I think it might be hard because we might forget where the wheels go.

Reflection: But what actually happened was that it was quite easy. Next time I would put the bolts in the right place so I would know where they go.
Eva

Hypothesis: I think its going to take a while because we won’t know where all the parts go. 

Reflection: my hypothesis wasn’t correct because taking it apart wasn’t very hard at all. It was fun and hard at the same time and we figured out where all the bolts went. I needed help from everyone to tighten all the bolts. A new thing I learned was where all the bolts and parts go. Next time I would share the task a bit more with others.  I needed to get the back wheel off. I got help from Mrs. Ritchie when she told me it doesn’t matter what end the wheels go. I was worried that we would not be able put it back together. 

Dawn