Recently, we started a unit on plants. To start the unit, the class was introduced to learning contracts. Learning contracts in my room are a way to show evidence of their learning. All types of learning styles are accommodated. We talk a little about each choice, but I do not go into great detail. I want to see how they interpret the idea on their own.
After several days of learning new information, we have project time where they get to work on their projects and apply the new information in a way that makes most sense to them.
Today, we learned about pollination. First, we watched a couple videos on You Tube that showed great examples of pollination happening in nature. The kiddos were amazed how humming birds, bees, butterflies, and even bats help pollinate flowers. After we watched the videos, we did a SUPER FUN activity where they were the different types of insects or animals and pollinated flowers. First, we colored only the petals of a flower on white paper. Then we took a smaller white flower with a mini cupcake holder in the middle that was filled with cheese puffs and Doritos. The kiddos touched the cheese puffs and Doritos which acted like pollen. They then walked around to other desks and sprinkled the "pollen" onto the flowers that were colored. This was SOOO fun to watch. At first, they couldn't see the "pollen", but as more and more kiddos added to the flowers, it was very noticeable. The class was excited to see the finished product. To set the "pollen", I sprayed the flower paper gently with hairspray to hold everything in place! The amount of learning that took place in 40 minutes was amazing! There are 2 products that I use for my plant unit. I have provided links below if you are interested!
