Today we created nests using clay for our Rock-hopper penguins. We talked about how Rock-hopper nests are above the ground (unlike the African penguin, which burrows their nest underground). We compared different types of scales (floor scale, food scale and our classroom scale). The children mentioned that the scale and the classroom clock's dial looks almost the same. They both are circular in shape and have numbers on them. We noticed that the small lines on both the scale and the clock count in 5's.
Buddies: Today in Buddies we read the story "When will it be spring?" (by: Catherine Walters). We talked about the different seasons and how it is no longer winter, but rather spring. Our buddies read short essays that they wrote about spring and what spring means to them.
If you could, would you like to be a penguin? The children did a small writing assignment, answering this question. Everyone said that they would like to be a penguin for different reasons (ie. to waddle, to eat fish, to whistle to their family, to grow feathers, etc.).
Science Co-Op: Today the children participated in a blubber experiment. They wore a Crisco mitten on one hand, and on the other hand they had nothing on their hand. They put both hands into a bucket of ice cold water. Then they reported back which hand felt warmer. All of the children said that the one with the Crisco mitten felt warmer. We discussed how the penguin feels warm when in the water, because their blubber (fat) keeps them warm.
Specials: Spanish & Art
Wednesday:
Today we made tissue paper fish! The children chose to add them to the top of their project from yesterday.
Today we got to go to the Elementary School's science fair. They had so many wonderful ideas. We learned a lot about electricity, colors, light and taste!
Thursday:
Science Expo is today! :)
Penguin X-Ray's! Today one of the children asked if Penguins have bones. We looked it up on Google (as one of the children said "Google knows everything!". We found out that they do have bones. The children created a penguin x-ray using Q-Tips, glue and black paper.
Specials: Sports Plus
Friday:
It was great to see all of you last night at the Science Fair. The children worked hard and learned a lot about penguins.
Cape Cod Alphabet Book: Today we worked on the letter E page (eel grass).
Random Acts of Kindness: We started our cards for Mrs. Mills. We talked about what her job is here at the Laurel School. The children talked about what they like about her. We will continue this on Monday, as we think up some questions to ask her.