Native Americans, Trees, and Graphing…What a Morning

If you drove by TJ today you may have seen our class outside looking very similar to the picture below. Today we did an activity that tied in many of the topics we are learning about, or have learned about.

The class today went outside and measured the trees using some of the same strategies the Native Americans would have, as well as some modern tools (measuring tapes and meter sticks). We measured the height of the tree (estimated…see picture below as to how), the height of the trees shadow, the circumference of the tree (in meters, hands, and footsteps). The kids had a blast and worked together to complete their task.

Once we had our data gathered, we brought it back inside and turned that information into a bar graph…and we even had to do some conversions from meters to centimeters (or vice versa).

Graphing, Recycling, and Collecting Data

Wow!  That was a busy math class today. During our study of graphing we took a look at some data collected about the amount of waste we create, as well as what happens to that waste. How many tons end up recycled and how many tons end up in a landfill. Some of the numbers were amazing…just ask the kids about them.

We took that information and created some bar graphs to display our data. We then did a quick percentage lesson with it which made even more of the students amazed. So now what?

Well the students will be collecting some data about water usage in your home over the next 5-7 days. We will then take that information and create some graphs with it…and maybe make a few changes as well.

Homework for the Parents

So we are getting ready to begin talking about migration and an interesting question was brought up. What brought you here? Were you pushed here by a certain event? Were you pulled here by a job or another opportunity?

What made you migrate to Falls Church?  Feel free to leave your comments.

Jamestown

On Friday we had an incredible time exploring Jamestown. The students and I stopped off at 3 different location: the Historic Jamestown Site, the Glass House, and the Jamestown Settlement. The students had a blast, learned a ton, and were able to experience history. We had an opportunity to try on armor, help make a canoe, board one of the 3 ships, see a Powhatan Village, as well as see an actual archaeological dig.

What a great day had by all!