The plays yesterday went beyond my wildest expectations. It's hard to believe children so young can deliver lines, remember their staging AND wear hot costumes all at the same time. It was so wonderful for your children to see so many of there but for those who couldn't make it, I did record all three plays once and parts of them the second time through. As soon as I figure out my new computer's software and my new camcorder's directions, I'll make your DVDs.
Last week with our study of Africa the children learned about gorillas and one gorilla in particular; Koko, the talking gorilla. This week I introduced them to two special friends named Owen and Mzee.
Owen was a baby hippo when the Southeast Asian tsunami of 2004 killed his entire pod. he was left stranded on a newly formed island in Kenya and eventually rescued by the village people. He was then transported to the Haller Park Sanctuary where he took up with a 130 year old tortoise named Mzee. Although Mzee had never before shown any interest in companionship, he allowed Owen to stay close by and even cuddle. Over time they have formed a loving relationship and are now constant companions. I read the first book in the series about then called, "Owen & Mzee: The True Story of a Remarkable Friendship" by Isabella and Craig Hatkoff. The final picture is a lovely scene with Owen's head resting on Mzee front leg and neck. I'm sure you heard the "Oohs" and "Aahs" all the way to your house!
This morning we played a version of "Jeopardy" with only one category: The Missing Number. I wrote up a series of numbers omitting one. In Final Jeopardy style, they wrote their answers on white board tablets while the theme song played (humming from yours truly). When the music ended they held up their answers. It was a bit tricky at first and naturally the numbers grew in size as we played but it was fun and educational.
You will find a field trip FYI in your child's folder today. Just in case it fell out I have also posted it at the bottom of the blog page. Our class will ride on the activity bus. I know some parents are planning to meet us there and one is a driver for Middle elementary. Please let me know very soon if your child will not be riding the bus.
Celine Anderson is a student in our Middle School and is working with the Refugee Center to provide refugee children with school supplies. She is using two methods. The first is the collection of unused school supplies which can be sent directly to our classroom. The second is a very clever method. She is collecting books that have already been read and loved to resell. The money will be used to buy supplies. I think it shows Celine already understands one person can make a difference in this world if they are creative and willing to put forth some sweat equity! Let's all support this very kind young lady and send in either supplies or books. She has already placed boxes in each classroom.
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