Our last few weeks were filled with friendship and learning fun!
Fairy Tale STEM stations allowed students to work collaboratively
to solve a problem involving the stories “The Three Billy Goats Gruff”, “The
Three Little Pigs”, and “Goldilocks and the Three Bears”. Funding for these stations was provided through a Floyd County Retired Teachers Association mini-grant.
Students first read the story cards and identified the challenge.
Then students sketched a plan of action based on the
challenge and materials provided.
Students set to work creating their models. They quickly
learned there were not enough materials for everyone to build a model that
would meet the challenge. Teamwork was
necessary to complete the task at hand!
Students tested creations for success or failure and used problem solving skills to modify as needed.
Students were able to realize how a failed test provided
useful information and is an important part of the learning process. By going
through each step in the design process, students gained useful experience and
knowledge that allowed them to rework the original design or create a new one,
eventually engineering a successful solution!
“Goldilocks and
the Three Bears” and “The Three Little Pigs” STEM Stations
Students were able to use characters
and materials from the STEM kits to read and retell each fairy tale, using the
beginning, middle, and end structure. The characters in these tales allowed
students to use voice and expression as they retold the events.
During math, students identified
fractions of a set using Goldilocks and the Three Bears.
As noted below, three out of four
characters are bears!
Students also set to work planting in our school garden. Students pre-sprouted peas in paper towels.
After they had plumped up, it was time to plant!
During Commit to Graduate Day each
student completed a pledge committing to graduate and receive their high school
diploma. Students had discussions and wrote about about
their future aspirations including thoughts about who could support them along
their journey.
The afternoon concluded with the FCHS Class of
2017 taking a “Senior Walk” through our hallways. The first graders eagerly awaited their arrival!
A proud moment of brotherly love...
Field Day was devoted to having fun as students,
teachers, and volunteers enjoyed games and events through the morning.
Embracing our last few hours together on the
last day of school….
I wish for my class a summer full of endless
smiles, family time, and exploration. Think,
create, and imagine daily! Adventure
awaits!
