Twitter: Room36Homework...
Posted by
MsYork in
Nightly Homework on
August 14, 2010 |
No Comments
So, after a very unnecessary delay, I was finally able to take the remaining school year photos off of my phone and transfer them to my computer. 
In doing so, I found the Room 36 Flags we created this past school year! After reading about the CA Bear Flag Revolt and discussing the value of state and country flags, we decided to create a flag that exemplified the uniqueness of our classroom. All students drew things they felt were the most accurate representation of our class or things unique to our classroom that they enjoyed most: morning yoga, Pinwheels for Peace, interactive science notebooks, VIP Club, music, our class website, recycling, nature journals, and more! As they were drawn in May, many of them were up for display during Open House!
When I was a child, my mother ordered two personalized books as Christmas gifts for my brother and I. I no longer know where mine is, but I’ve kept my brother’s safe for quite some time. It was a wonderful Christmas tale that incorporated the names of our pets, my brother’s friend, and the two of us. I still think it was an amazing gift.
Today, while prepping for the new school year, I stumbled across MeeGenius. This is a new beta site that, in mere minutes, replicates the gift my mother gave us. Choose a free book from their list, add in your own names and a few choice details, and you’ve got a personalized book in seconds. I had to make one myself, just for fun! What a great way to engage your reluctant reader!
After reading many books in recent years about environmental education and the need to get our kids outdoors, I have been itching to begin an environmental club here at Wilson. I even created EarthSaversClub.org in order to get the ball rolling and have a means of collaboration for club members and their parents! Unfortunately, due to numerous time constraints, it may just have to wait a little while longer!
Why do I mention this? Just because I can’t involve students in a club format quite yet, I still understand the importance of children experiencing the natural world! Aside from statistical data (children experience less symptoms of ADD/ADHD, have lower stress levels, play more creatively, have more active imaginations, etc.), it is plainly obvious that children who experience nature have a greater respect for themselves, for others, and for the environment!
The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) has a program called “Green Hour” in order to help combat what Richard Louv cleverly coined as nature deficit disorder. It’s concept is very simple: get children outdoors for at least one hour a day! Their website includes a discovery journal and simple activities, parents’ guides, data, and many other features to help jumpstart you and your child’s natural play. This is such an essential part of our lives!
If you would like more help, feel free to visit the “For Parents” page at EarthSaversClub.org.
Our current Friday Accelerated Reading goal is 22.5 points. Our Accelerated Math goal is 36 objectives. 16.0 AR points and 26 AM objectives are required for a passing grade. If your child is behind, time will be given during recess to attain this week's goal. 
