Have you dived into the halls of Emerson lately? It’s a 3-D marine marvel; a riot of fish, octopi, sea horses, jellyfish, starfish; a profusion of color and a whole lot of fun. What’s going on?!
It’s the Coral Reef, of course! Ask any Emerson first grade “scientist” about that natural wonder – you’ll get an enthusiatic response. Over the past two months the classes have been busy with an in-depth study of the reef, using science, language arts, math, social studies, art and music in their explorations. The stunning showcase in the school hallways brims with their knowledge, creativity and passion.
Some Coral Reef Learning Opportunities:
As a scientist …
- Learn about four types of scientists and decide which one to be
- Study an ocean animal, researching in books and on the Internet
- Simulate an oil spill
In Social Studies …
- Study the Great Barrier Reef, including locating it on maps and globes
As a artist …
- Create posters about animals and about saving the reef
- Create sea creatures, that go to “live” on the 3D coral reef the students create in the hall
With numbers …
- Be a Marine Mathematician!
With words …
- Write and read fiction and non-fiction in an array of activites about the ocean
Working together …
- Create a sea lab, working in collaborative groups
Telling the world …
Plan and prepare for a show for parents!
A special thank you to first grade teachers Jill Nolan and Jennifer Conn, and to Jennifer Tanau, art teacher. They worked together to create the fabulous learning experience of the Coral Reef!
