First graders have launched into first trimester science and social studies topics. Yesterday, as an introduction to our study of the environment, we enjoyed sharing in the Dr. Seuss favorite, The Lorax. Making connections to the book, we will begin learning about natural resources, energy sources, causes and effects of pollution, and our individual roles in caring for our planet. We will find that our socials studies topics are intricately woven into the story as well as we begin learning about goods, services, needs, and wants. In addition to providing a solid foundation in which to build our content area learning, we are using the story to further our understanding of basic story elements including characters, settings, problems, and solutions. Thus far, students have focused on elements of character and setting. First, students completed a cut and sort comparing the two main characters, the Lorax and the Once-ler. Then, they examined the setting comparing scenes from before and after the Once-ler. In the coming week, students will participate in several writing activities relating to The Lorax. Be sure to check out the student links page for additional online activities relating to The Lorax.
How It’s Made: Maple Syrup
First graders just began a new unit learning about world cultures. The first continent we are studying is our home, North America. Today we learned