After learning about landforms and erosion, the 3rd graders set out with the iPads to find signs of erosion. When we got back to class the kids shared their pictures with other groups then shared why they thought erosion was responsible for those particular changes in the earth.
Next we talked about earth materials and how we use many of them everyday. Oils, plants, and wood are perfect examples. We took a closer look at some different types of rocks and minerals. Some of the kids even brought in their own rocks from home to share! We even went on to try to create our very own replica of an earth material - a geode. Using egg shells, alum powder, and food coloring, we attempted to grow crystals inside of our shells to replicate the look of a geode. Our crystals grew, but unfortunately, they didn't grow very large. We are going to try to do this with some different materials to see if we can make improvements.
Now that the kids know all about erosion and earth materials, they are ready for their challenge - to build a strong, stable earth dwelling using only earth materials. These dwellings must also stand up to wind and water erosion. Since November is the month that we recognize the Native American culture, we took some time to research how the tribes in different regions lived and the types of earth dwellings they lived in. We also took a look at the different types of dwellings that were build by the Native Americans.
The 3rd graders went on to IMAGINE and PLAN the designs for their houses. Not only did they need a diagram of how they wanted to build their houses, but they also had to create a budget for their materials that couldn't exceed $20! Let the building begin!
The 3rd graders went on to IMAGINE and PLAN the designs for their houses. Not only did they need a diagram of how they wanted to build their houses, but they also had to create a budget for their materials that couldn't exceed $20! Let the building begin!
After IMAGINing the possibilities of the earth dwelling on their own, each student shared his or her ideas with the others in the group. After sharing, the groups collaborated to combine their ideas into one.
Thorough planning is essential! After that, each group can begin to CREATE.
Here are a few of our finished products (there are more to come)! Not only did each earth dwelling need to be free-standing, they also had to stand up to wind (a blow-dryer) and water (a spray bottle) erosion while protecting an "inhabitant ( a plastic kangaroo :)) from the elements. So far, each dwelling has passed the tests!