What a wonderful week back after the long spring break. The week started with a special solar eclipse viewing party. After lunch, the children gathered for a launch about what causes an eclipse and why this week’s eclipse is so special. The children were surprised when they had the realization that they will be in their late 20’s the next time such an eclipse comes around. Where and who will they be?! We watched the first 30 minutes of the eclipse, went back to work, and came back for peak coverage. The children were fascinated with how dark, cool and eerie it was outside.
The Discovery heroes kicked off the “Community Gardening” quest this week. For the next several weeks they will explore both the science and art of plants and planting. On day one, they explored vegetables, herbs and flowers through their senses. How do they look, taste, smell, feel? Based on their observations, the children did further research on how much space each plant would need to grow, how they would need to be planted (transplant or direct sow), which plants do best together, and how they can use flowers and herbs to deter pests and attract pollinators. They then researched different locations around the school for successful gardening, and made a planting plan for later in the quest. The next task is to plant seedlings which they will keep under grow lights in the studio for the next several weeks! They also explored the concept of photosynthesis and modeled plant cells with colorful air-dry clay, labeling each part.
In Civilization, the children are continuing to explore the middle ages and complete weekly research on interesting questions. They are learning about reliable sources and paraphrasing their findings with their own words, then presenting to the group.
The children enjoyed the warm weather this week as well. For PE, the children hiked to a place they call “rock park” (Glenway Children’s Park) where they had lunch and explored the canyons, hills, and ledges of the unique park!
This session, art will tie into the gardening quest. The children celebrated spring by creating the components of their indoor community garden which they display for the exhibition.
Finally, this week ends with the Acton Children’s Business Fair happening this Saturday. Several heroes are participating and all will be shopping! We can’t wait to see the creations the children have made!
