Grade 3 Students Explore Space Rocks Up Close

Sometimes understanding the universe starts with holding a piece of it in your hands. Grade 3 students were in for an out-of-this-world treat by seeing meteorites up close during a recent unit lesson in David Beshk’s science class. 

The guest speaker, Scott McGregor, a well-known and passionate meteorite collector and St. Margaret’s parent of alumni, brought planetary science down to Earth by sharing four individual meteorites from his personal collection. Grade 3 students examined polished slices displayed in glass cases before getting a rare hands-on experience, passing around real meteorite fragments from both the moon and Mars to observe their weight, texture, and patterns up close. 

“Seeing the looks of excitement and awe made this experience one of the most memorable class presentations I have ever had the privilege of hosting,” shared Mr. Beshk, “I am grateful that Mr. McGregor so generously donated his time and his extensive understanding of the solar system.”

Mr. McGregor donated multiple meteorites to the Lower School science laboratory so all Tartans may share in the amazement of viewing the specimens under magnification.

The learning went even deeper as students viewed smaller samples under a microscope for closer detail. With a collection of a variety of specimens and a reputation for sharing his expertise through the meteorite community, Mr. McGregor combined the unit lesson into scientific concepts about space and planets into something tangible and exciting.