Second Graders Learn to Make Scientific Observations
Did you know that we have 27 scientists in second grade?
This year, our scientists will make careful observations of our special second grade tree, a pin cherry, in each season: summer, fall, winter, and spring. They will record their observations in the form of a scientific sketch.
For our scientific drawing, we:
- Asked a question: What does a pin cherry tree look like in the fall?
- Made a hypothesis: The tree will be full of leaves and pin cherries.
- Observed our tree, using both our eyes and magnifying glasses to observe important details.
- Recorded our observations, capturing exactly what we saw.
– The Second Grade Team
Fifth Graders Look At, Share What America Means to Them
In their humanities class, fifth graders have been working on a group project called “What Makes America, America.” In this project students brainstormed, analyzed, and researched what they thought were some defining characteristics of America. From their perspective, topics that make America, America are: diversity, sports, culture, immigration, our government, and symbols. Students researched their topics using books, and online databases. Once their research was completed students collaborated with their group members to make a creative physical representation of their research. Finally, students presented their projects to their classmates and visiting faculty members. Students learned and used many different skills during this project and made some amazing presentations.
– Vaniecia Skinner, fifth grade teacher
Pre-K Enjoys A Potato-Tasting Party
Last Friday, pre-kindergarten students in Ms. Edwards’ and Ms. Siverls’ classes hosted a potato-tasting feast! They crafted a potato-printed tablecloth, cut flower arrangements, and sent invitations to several of our BDS administrators. Then, they helped set the tasting table. Chef Lightbody and Chef Vlad arrived with roasted potatoes–the very same ones harvested by the children earlier this fall –and explained all the steps involved in creating the dish. First, they chopped the potatoes; then, they added some oil; next, they sprinkled some salt and pepper; finally, they roasted the potatoes in the oven. Each child took a taste, and, for some, it was their first time trying potatoes. Many children asked for seconds and even thirds! It was an event filled with food, community, and joy, and the children were so proud of all the hard work they put into it.
– Kim Edwards and Nicole Siverls, pre-kindergarten teachers
