Miranda Sonka, 2nd Grade Teacher, Atkins Elementary
In second grade, we started research about the life cycle of plants. We are connecting our science research to our writing standards. Students are learning all about time/sequence words (first, next, then, last). As a class, we sequenced the life cycle of a pumpkin. Then, students wrote sequential stories and illustrated them. We also made an accordion pumpkin craft that sequenced the steps in this plant's life cycle.
During the middle of our plant research unit something amazing happened! We took a field trip to Bloomsbury Farm (thanks to Benton’s PTO). We were able to see pumpkins in real life! As we rode on the hayrack ride, students kept pointing at the pumpkins and cheering. Students have enjoyed learning about the life cycle of insects and plants this year, but when they could see things in real life, it meant so much more. Students were saying, “Mrs. Sonka, I bet aphids were eaten by the ladybugs on these corn plants.” Or, “Look at the vines connecting to these pumpkins. It’s just like we talked about in class!” We had an exciting day at Bloomsbury Farm traveling to stations and participating in many activities. Who knew learning could be so much fun!!!
