Welcome Friends!
I love this time of year when the world is washed in the colors of green grass and bright yellow sunshine again, so I've chosen three thematic Pinterest ideas to feature this month! Sure.....April can be a little wet and a little muddy, so why not incorporate those topics into your instruction?!?!
MAKE IT RAIN IN A CUP!
My second grade scientists are going to love conducting this simple experiment as we begin our study of the water cycle next week! My friend Marcy over at Saddle Up for Second Grade has outlined simple steps and an easy supply list that will make learning hands-on and fun at the same time!
You'll find some great mentor texts that will help you extend and integrate your Science and ELA lessons in a post I wrote last year {HERE}. One of my favorite rain stories to share is Verna Aardema's Bringing Rain to the Kapiti Plain. This story, set in Africa, has a "build on" pattern and is rhymed and repetitive. The musical, rhythmic pattern of the text makes it a wonderful Reader's Theater activity. My second graders have great fun adding the sound effects! You can watch it {HERE} on YouTube!
What's a study of the weather without a discussion of the squishy, squashy, smooshy, and soft mud that is made when you mix rain and good old dirt, right? This awesome anchor chart model from Chrissy over at Buzzing with Mrs. B is the perfect way to launch a study of figurative language or descriptive writing!
EXPLORE FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE WITH
MARVELOUS MUD MENTOR TEXTS!
Click {HERE} to see original pin from Buzzing with Mrs. B.!
Mentor texts I plan to use during our class exploration of all things soil-related include...
MUD IN A CUP!
It's always fun to wrap up a thematic unit with a special snack, and this recipe for Dirt Cups from Shari at Shari Blogs is simple and easy! I am going to make it even more convenient for myself by purchasing the Jello ready-made six-packs of pudding. It might be fun to serve and enjoy them in honor of Earth Day, or while your students take turns sharing their own mud stories and poems!
A special shout-out goes to Lisa from Pawsitively Teaching, Ashley from Just Reed, and Marissa from The Inspired Owl's Corner for hosting such a fun and useful linky party! I hope the ideas help you celebrate the new season in your classroom!
As always, thanks so much for sharing my story. Continue to hold a song in your heart and teach your children well!
Peace out,
