This week, our focus shifted from big, hungry dinosaurs to soft, fluffy clouds. The children had the opportunity to figure out what they already know about clouds to extend their knowledge about through some fun activities!
At an activity station that was organized by our student Jenna, the children got to experiment with how rain clouds work.
Each child was provided with a sheet of paper with a space for a hypothesis for what they thought would happen during the experiment and then a space for a conclusion after the experiment. Although this may seem simple, this very basic structure for investigating and acquiring knowledge is a stepping stone for more complicated scientific methods.
By providing writing materials in this experiment, Jenna allowed for the activity to go from what could have been a simple exploration of materials into a writing exercise for the children.
Intently watching as the rain falls from her cloud! The clouds were made of shaving cream and the rain was made of food colouring.
Each child had a chance to squeeze colour into their own cup allowing them to strengthen their very important fine-motor muscles. Fine-motor muscles are crucial for proper pencil grip and buttoning buttons. Refined use of small muscles allows young children to gain more independence.
Some children decided to explore clouds another way; through art. As a class we read the book "Little Cloud" by Eric Carle which provided the children with a little inspiration for their clouds.
He really felt funny about using his fingers to paint. At first, he would only use the tip of one finger. Then I encouraged him to try two fingers, five fingers, one hand, two hands. Each time he added a new finger, he would call me over to see how messy he was getting.
On a very windy Wednesday, we decided to fly some giant paper airplanes!
Someone's ready for take off!
We had a few dedicated volunteers filling the planes up with gas.
Directing traffic.
And they're off!
She spent the entire outdoor time flying that giant paper plane. She figured out that in order for it to fly higher and further she had to launch it in the same direction that the wind was blowing.
I reminded her that standing in front of where the airplanes were being launched might not be a great idea so she decided to casually lie down.
The planes took some serious beatings from the ground. I watched the children fixing the tips of their planes to keep them aerodynamic.
We needed some guides for smooth landings.
Nice shot!
A layover at Churchill to fill up the tank!
An ants-eye view!
What happens when you launch against the wind! I love the shadow!
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