This week in small group work we started to talk about reusing materials, in order to help our planet. As we already have our workshop in the classroom, we talked about all our different materials and how the new arrivals of materials started to look messy. Therefore, the children decided to sort them so we can build more efficiently in our maker space.
Cardboard, plastic, wood, and metal were all discovered, as well as some materials were sorted by their properties (for example: can you bend that material?)
While doing this, the children had some creative ideas of what they would like to build and two interest groups were established: robots and musical instruments.
We worked the rest of the week on these and the children were excited to use some real nuts and bolts as parts of their robots and the music group could even perform some songs as a band with drums, trumpets, and flutes.
One of our small groups was very interested to create musical instruments using recycled materials from the workshop. They created a variety of instruments including drums, trumpets, "three-headed drums," and shakers. The students were able to perform for the high school drama teacher, Mr. O, who was very enthusiastic about the performance!
Another group built robots using recycled materials. A natural question that arose was "how can I make my robot move?" We returned to an expert we know, Mr. Miller. After continuing to develop plans and work on our robots, we may be able to add motors with his help. Very exciting!
Here are some more photos from our week together:
The bubble machine turned into a bubble bath for our "human" toys. Using hand soap to create bubbles also gives the opportunity for the children to practice hand-washing technique!
Children implementing "math language" at the workshop.
Revisiting balls and ramps through play; sharing knowledge from past units.
Next Week:
The students will continue re-using materials in the workshop. We will finish our math unit, "counting to 20 and addition and subtraction stories."
Reminders:
Please be sure to pack your child's library books and bag each Sunday. Thank you!
End of year dates for students from the library:
May 8-10 Used book sale, starting at 2 pm on May 8
May 15 Last day for check out
May 22 Last day for classes; All books are due
May 29 Summer check out starts
Used Book Sale, May 8 to 10:
We are getting ready for our annual used book sale, this year from May 8 to 10. We welcome donations of used books for all ages in saleable condition. This is a good time for departing families to dispose of books before packing. There is a donation box at the front gate. We’ll accept books until May 7. Clean out your bookcases to refresh your home book collections!
Upcoming Events:
Our next and final parent community meeting is May 13th. Please mark your calendars for a fun "circle," the more the merrier!
Student-led conference day is May 21st. Please be sure to sign up for a conference time.
Parents' Corner:
The language we use with children is one of our most powerful tools in their development. We can empower them regularly with simple word choices. Before you speak, take a moment to think about what you wish to convey and how your child will hear you. Are you advocating for a strong, independent child who is capable and confident? Does your child know you believe in him/her?
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