Inquiry Into Topographical Maps

This week, we inquired into topographical maps - maps used to show the natural features (i.e. landforms) of a location.  We learned about a variety of different landforms - mountains, hills, plateaus, coasts, plains, deserts, valleys, forests, oceans, rivers, and lakes.  Each student used salt dough to create a topographical map depicting the landforms of their imaginary island countries.

We investigated topographical maps of the US and the world.

We created map keys for our topographical maps.

We created topographical maps out of salt dough.

 

We painted our topographical maps according to our map keys.

We created travel brochures about our imaginary island countries.

Where We Are In Place & Time Provocation

This week, we began our third IB Unit of Inquiry - "Where We Are In Place And Time."  As the provocation ("kick off") for this unit, the students were given the opportunity to explore different chronological and geographic tools.  Look at these inquirers go!

First Grade Food Drive

The first grade food drive was a HUGE success!  Thanks to the generosity of the families and staff of Boulevard School, we were able to donate 660 cans, boxes, and packages of food to the Heights Emergency Food Bank in time for Thanksgiving.

Together with Mrs. Deep's class, we wrote a letter to the students and staff of Boulevard School asking them for their help with our food drive.

 

Then, we made posters advertising our food drive.  We hung them throughout the school.

 On Friday, November 18th, our class & Mrs. Deep's class counted the 660 cans, boxes, and packages of food to be donated to the Heights Emergency Food Bank in time for Thanksgiving.