We've had a busy few weeks with Camp Collins and at school we've been infusing ecology lessons in with our little people storyline. We had fun on Tuesday using linker cubes for a game that simulated what happens with carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms during photosynthesis. In reading reflections after the lesson, many students wrote that 'now I finally get it'. I think we'll leave it at that for now and I won't throw the Krebs cycle at them. From photosynthesis we'll examine cellular respiration, the carbon cycle, and the nitrogen cycle.
We deepened our understanding of ecosystems by learning about limiting factors, stimulating factors, and carrying capacities and how those principles affect populations of organisms.
On our field study today we explored animals of Reed Canyon, used leaf morphology to identify some native plants, and used the characteristics of old growth forests students learned at Camp Collins to determine what stage of succession the forest is in at Reed. For the most part students were well behaved, but their ability to be respectful of other people when they are talking is in question. They are building that trust up with me again by writing letters about their behavior and what I can expect to see from them next time.
Speaking of field studies, we desperately need chaperones to come with us. It was just me and Laura yesterday. I understand that people have busy schedules, but if you could look into the future trips and try and come on one it would be greatly appreciated!!! Here's what's coming up:
Oct. 18 Yellow Bus Ivy Removal 10:30-3
Oct. 25 Tri Met Jean's Farm 9-2:30
Nov. 1 Yellow Bus Tillamook Forest Center 9-3
Nov. 8 Yellow Bus Hopkins Tree Farm 9-3
Nov. 15 Tri Met Hoyt Arboretum 9-3
Nov. 29 Tri Met Reed Canyon 10-2:30
Student are signing up for shifts to help at the Harvest Faire next Saturday the 20th. This is a great opportunity for students to get school-based service hours. Our class is running the giant spider web and the lollipop tree. We need some parents who can be there...any takers?!
Students can also get garden hours by coming to garden at the school during the late start on Wednesday; they need a total of 8 for the school year.
Homework over the weekend for Sarah B:
Due Tuesday ~ photosynthesis packet (questions & comic strip); Reed Canyon field study assignment; letter to me about behavior
We will be adding more characteristics to our little people on Tuesday, students are asked to bring in stuff if they have it -- cool fabric, pipe cleaners, raffia, googly eyes, etc.
Yesterday, we wished Amaya a speedy recovery for her back surgery she is having on Monday. She will be out of school for about a month. If students would like to visit her while she is gone, they can ask me for her phone number.
Lastly, here's a link to see some photos students took of the important forest structures when we were at balch creek and also some pics of the structures they created for their little people yesterday.
