Totally Tubular Tornado

I taught a science lesson using a tornado model.  To begin the lesson I used small-group discussion to access the background knowledge of my students.  We wrote key words on the board about tornadoes and discussed in detail what they look like and what they sound like.  I was surprised at the amount of information my first graders knew about tornadoes. 

After the discussion the students constructed the model and began to manipulate it.  I didn't tell my students how to create a vortex, I just told them that I wanted them to create a water vortex inside of the 2-liter bottle.  During this discovery phase, I encourage them to look on the board for key words that might help them with their challenge.  Finally, they manipulated the model to form a vortex. It was very exciting and they were very proud of their accomplishments.  Even during the frustrating times, the students remained interested and engaged in the activity.  We also discussed "tornado alley" and how tornadoes develop and where they occur most often.  Students drew pictures of tornadoes and learned essential tornado survival tips.