This week the Sprouts had fun exploring snowflakes, ice and types of crystals. We learned last week that snowflakes themselves are made from ice crystals. At our new ‘science lab’, we looked at sugar and salt crystals under our microscope and discussed the differences; noticing that salt crystals are cubic and sugar crystals look hexagonal. We then used those two substances to do some experimental ice melting in our sensory bin. Students noted that salt melts ice the faster than sugar, but when sugar, salt and water are combined the process is even quicker. Throughout the week they used sugar, water and salt to free different objects from ice blocks. We did a final analysis today using separate pieces of ice for each substance and left them all day to melt at their own pace. What we coined “The Sprout Combo” won the race, though salt on its own came in second. We also compared the amount of liquid left behind by a full jar of snow vs one of ice cubes. Though the snow jar looked more full, the students learned that ice contains more molecules and therefore when it melts into a liquid there will be more water in the jar than that of snow. The students are throughly enjoying being little scientists and exercising that “curious why”. ☺️
During Letter & Number Magic centres, different snowflake shapes were explored using our geo-boards and directional lines (vertical, horizontal and diagonal). In our readings last week we learned that snowflakes can have traditional points and some can be ‘plate-shaped’. They continued to work on their animal track recognition, letter blends, addition & subtraction, journal writing and all completed a snowflake life cycle worksheet. A new centre focusing on Pine Medicine was introduced as we continue through our Pine Fairy book. Students learned the medicinal uses for white pine needles and resin (sap).
We had 5 badge work poster presentations today! These Sprouts are working hard to reach the goals they’ve set for themselves. It’s wonderful to witness each of them working at their own pace and taking breaks when needed.
For the last two weeks we have been playing a new (currently literacy) game called “boom, clap”. Students get to listen to movement instructions and also for me to say a letter or letter buddy sound, for which they then grab for. They are loving it! This game can be played with any topic so I am looking forward to incorporating it in other subject areas as well.
It will be Jude’s turn for Mystery Bag on Monday.
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