Scarecrow

The class did an amazing job both creating their own personal scarecrows, and using teamwork to create our classroom scarecrow. It will be great weather today for the festival.

Day Three at JOS

We all got to experience a true OUTDOOR school today. The weaker elements threw some curve balls at us, yet the students didn't get down. Instead, they celebrated the 1/4 inch hail mixed with lightning and thunder by dancing in it. Then we headed for shelter!  One group, up on the mountain during their hike during the sudden downpour, had such positive spirits that they received a special hot chocolate when they returned to warm them up. Lots of learning still took place with close to a half day tomorrow to squeeze in a little more. 

End of Day 2 at JOS

As the afternoon progressed, as rain sprinkled down on us, students didn't let that get them down. Groups headed into the forest, with at least two groups making it to the top of Bald Mountain. On their way, one group was able to take a side trip to a quartz outcrop. Some groups were able to try their hand at the sort of archery. At the challenge course, some groups made it to the high ropes course, with two groups working so well together that they were able to climb the Alpine Tower. After dinner, pasta and a favorite to many students,  Trail groups headed into the forest to experience the "night experience". Without flashlights, they learned about adaptations of nocturnal animals. A highlight was some of the science dealing with the eyes and light. 

First 1/2 of Day 2

Weather was great this morning. Student Trail groups went all throughout the forest this morning. Here are some photos of archery and pond ecology. 

(Backup) The Start to Day 2

Lots of happy and excited faces this morning. The students are smiling and ready for what today has to offer. A warm morning, at 50 degrees and plates full of eggs, sausage, French toast, fruit, oatmeal, and juice. Stomachs are full and minds are ready to learn. 

Day One at JOS

Day one at Journeys Outdoor School was a success. Trail groups worked on team building activities to prepare them for the challenge course, which many groups begin on day 2. Dinner, as can be imagined, was a highlight, with only 6 pounds of ort (wasted food) for the entire group of over 80 of us. Our goal for breakfast is 3 pounds, which was set by the students. The evening activity, Active Science, surely captivated their attention and led to a multitude of science concepts learned. 

On Our Way to JOS

We are officially excited and on our way to Journeys Outdoor School. Kids are excited and everything got on the bus (as much as we know). We are ready for a diet-floor learning experience. More posts to come!

The Science of Tie Dye

This week we investigated a little bit with chemistry. We learned all about the science of tie dye, all the way down to the bonding that occurs. Students then got to put the science into practice by dying their own shirt. All aspects of the science were reviewed as we dyed. Students then get to follow directions to rinse out their shirt, which also review the science taking place. We all get to reveal our new masterpieces next Friday at Journeys Outdoor School when all wear them.

Food Chains

This week in science we have been learning about food chains in preparation for Journeys Outdoor School. On this particular day, we learned a food chain song. Next, students created food chains using a variety of cards with different organisms on then. Finally, students put their creative juices to work to create their own, original food chain.