Setting the Ladies Free

One aspect of our insects unit came to a close when the students set our Painted Ladies free to enjoy fresh flowers in the prairie, and to start the circle of life all over again.

Having hands on experiences like these will go a long way too!

Picking Pumpkins Off the Vine at Windy Acres

Before our ride out to the pumpkin patch, the children learned how they have been growing pumpkins at Windy Acres for 32 years. The staff of WA were very impressed by the questions and manners of our students, which they shared in a followup email. The children were able to connect our classroom studies to the actual pumpkin patch where we were picking pumpkins right off the vines. Priceless experiences which make for lasting memories and great schema (the file folders in your brain).

More Windy Acres Fun

Windy Acres Full of Fun Experiences for All 10/22

We had many different experiences to draw on with our follow up writing activities. From large motor fun to interesting animals, we had two solid hours of "awesomeness" before getting to the pumpkin patch.

Strategy Posters and Adult Butterflies - 10/16

We worked on breaking down our math practices to highlight strategies we use to solve word problems in math. We also got to meet some pretty little ladies who came out of their chrysalids this week.

Walk a Thon a Huge Success - 10/9/15

We raised more than $12,500 in the fund raising portion of the Walk a Thon endeavor. The children loved getting to run and walk the course for two laps. We stretched, completed the journey, and then had a few games to finish off the event. Thank you for joining us on the walk, and for supporting us through the donations. Our PTO will build a pavilion on campus for the children.

Fifth Grade Reading Buddies Begin

Mrs. Foster's fifth grade class joins us for some reading activities where the children read books to their new buddies and they discussed the strategies they use to figure out sticky words. Retelling is another important first grade skill to work on besides good fluency. We try to practice both with this cooperative grouping.

Preparing for the Walk a Thon

We went out of our way to be "neighborly" by helping prepare the course for the Walk a Thon on Thursday. Our work was appreciated by all of Grace McWayne School. We capitalized on the discussion of how it is important to volunteer, and it can be a lot of fun!

Pupa Have Arrived! 10/8

We now have observed our painted ladies grow to become pupae. This is the "sleeping bag" stage where they are going through metamorphosis. Looking forward to seeing how they transition!