Antarctica – that frozen continent – what a wonder! Our class has been thoroughly entranced by all that there is to learn about this remarkable land. One question has led to another, as we’ve read about some of the explorers, learned about icebergs, and talked about which animals can survive there. With a focus on the specific penguins that live there (Emperor, King, Adelie, and Rockhopper), the children have learned each one’s identifying characteristics, their relative size, the different kinds of nests they make or the unusual way they care for their eggs. (On that note – ask your child to tell you how the Emperor penguins care for their eggs and chicks!) The children know that there are 17 different kinds of penguins worldwide, and that all but one live south of the equator (the Galapagos penguin is the exception). Ever wondered which animals eat penguins? Or why their backs are black and their stomachs white? Ask your children – they have the answers!
We had a real treat today when award-winning photographer Sally Eagle came to the classroom to share her slides of Antarctica with the class. Her photographs are vibrant and exciting and the children had lots and lots of questions for her about them. If you’d like to see some yourself, Sally, along with her husband Dan Mead, another award-winning photographer, currently have over 70 images on display at Kimball Farms in Lenox. It’s called “Focus on our World” and runs through April 10. Try to go!
In other classroom news – Valentine’s Day was great fun! Alaska Day was great fun! And next Wednesday will be the 100th Day of School – more great fun! February is filled with wonderful events!
Making valentine cards for our families!
Have a good weekend!
Andrea