Another K Shore Trip

Trying to catch some fish in special "bathing suits."

This trip is a short bus ride to Valentino Pier on Ferris Street in Red Hook.  And it would give us a chance to study currents and wind; boats; and fish. Except one windy Friday, it was too difficult to go seining.

"Barbara and Johanna had a big problem."

But what started as a problem--a lot of wind--made this shore experience amazing.

Crashing waves were thrilling to watch.

Lots of chances to just look...we would draw later on in a more sheltered spot.

Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty Too

Feel the wind.

Look for boats.

Write observations.

Share noticings.

Dare the waves to wet us: "Na Na Na Na Boo Boo."

Thanks Justin Weiner for the great photos.

Kindergarten Visits Marine Park Salt Marsh

Marine Park Salt Marsh provided the backdrop for another chance to explore the shoreline around Brooklyn. The park rangers greeted us as we got off the bus and led us through dense brush and changing leaves to the very edge of the marsh waters.

First we took a close look at the sand beneath our feet.

                           What creatures might live here?

The rangers set up their seining net.

Everyone wants a peek at what the rangers caught!

Well hello! Who's this?

These creatures were hitching a ride on the backs of mussels.

The rangers brought a portable fish tank to keep creatures safe.

We got out our sketchbooks and drew what we saw...

... a tiny fish in the tank, with some friends looking on.

Mussels hiding in the reeds...

... here's how they catch their food!

Getting ready for our walk back through the reeds...

... the ranger tells us these berries are poisonous...

... but they make a great dye!

This sumac tree, however...

... provides a tasty snack!

We left the beach just as we found it, a beautiful spot.

Group Problem Solving: Building a Boat at Green Recess

Where will the passengers sit?

Who will steer the boat?
Who will be the lookout?
These K students worked it out.

Students incorporated tree trunks in their play.  A sailor left behind on an island?

What's Cooking?

As fifth graders prepare and eat traditional Maya foods,

they learn a lot about classical Maya customs. Tamales, tortillas, and cacao are made using traditional implements.

Rain or shine, they use an open fire pit to cook their corn cakes.

The takeaway?  Besides that the food tastes good?
The Earth can sustain us all if we respect and care for it.

 Thanks to Nancye Good and J.E. for their hard work and devotion as they guide our children towards a more sustainable future.