Wiscasset Elementary School fourth graders have been examining slow and fast changes to the Earth. As they learn about the causes and effects of weathering and erosion, they have been taking a close look at landslides.

They have read several books and articles about landslides, watched videos and learned how scientists and engineers make plans and designs to limit the damage done by landslides. After all this research, fourth grade researchers put on their engineering hats and designed a plan to protect a house from a macaroni landslide.

They tested their plans, considered the results, and then made followup designs. The students were determined to successfully protect their houses. Then, just as scientists do, they recorded their work so that it could be replicated.