Hi Room 14 Community!
We had a fantastic time on our field trip to the House of Blues. We learned about US history through the progression and influence of the blues. We all loved it. Being there made me realize that there are so many resources in Los Angeles that could help bring our classroom learning alive. At the Museum of Natural History right now, they have an exhibit about the silk road. We learned about this during our unit on exploration, and a visit there might give your child the opportunity to connect to that learning again. Also, the California Science Center has a room where they show how water is supplied to the Los Angeles basin. This exhibit, in particular, really connects to the earth science unit your kids are studying at school. This room, could also be a great starting point for a discussion about importance of water and the drought we are experiencing right now in California. In class we have been discussing the fact that it is everyone's responsibility to conserve during this difficult time. Finally, in life science we have begun learning about plants. Taking a closer look at any plant, whether it be on a hike, or in your house, would be a great learning extension for your student. The kids loved the experiment we did in class with celery and colored water where they got to see, first hand, the xylem and phloem tubes. This experiment can be easily replicated at home. All of the kids know what to do.
As a teacher, I realize that we have to spend a lot of time with pencils, paper and books. But, I also realize that hands on learning is probably the most powerful. You, as parents, can really help in that area. Especially in a city like Los Angeles, where lots of learning opportunities abound!!
Happy Learning!
:)Phyllis
