Magnetic Attraction

Here is an entry that has been sitting lost in space...sorry, it is a bit old!

The children explored the use of magnets in February. First they tested items in the basket to see if the items were attracted to or not attracted to a magnet. In an effort to share their learning, some students were happy to draw a picture of their discovery and even went so far as to label their objects before placing it under the right heading.


Kid drawing and spelling (paper clip, metal pieces)

Our bin of goodies
 

Kid drawing and spelling (marble, mitten, marble)
 

I wish I could have captured some of their expressions when a paper clip "jumped" out of their hand onto the magnetic wand or when they moved the wand close enough to the paper clip between their thumb and finger to move it slowly from a vertical to horizontal position! It was priceless!

Squishy Beads

These beads are a fan favourite right now!

 

The children enjoy running their fingers through the beads, scooping them into bowls, and squishing them in half! If you are looking for indoor play activities this is one that might be worth a try--beware though, they tend to escape and bounce around a bit from the "contained" area! I've seen Orbeeze at WalMart, and I have also found a selection of beads at Michael's in the flower arrangement area.

Interactive Poem

Check out this cool poem that Ms. Sarah (another Stonecrest teacher) has happily let us borrow!

This poem is so fantastic because it is interactive! With just a little velcro behind some five frames we were able to move them on and off the poem over and over again. This activity is great because the poem is easily remembered, the students only have a few words per line to touch/tap as they read, and it shows what a numerals quantity is when represented as a picture. Love it!
Thanks again Ms. Sarah!