First-graders Light Up Biomes
Museum-quality exhibition wows crowds!
First graders embarked on an engaging exploration of diverse animal biomes alongside Ms. Cristina Knodel in the Technology Lab. Each class delved into a specific biome, discovering its distinctive plants and wildlife.
In the science lab, students delved into the fascinating properties of light and shadows, testing various materials to classify them as transparent, translucent, or opaque.
As a highlight of their studies, the students dedicated a full week to daily sessions in the science lab, collaborating with both Ms. Knodel and Science Specialist Deborah Landon to craft impressive, large-scale displays.
Paired into teams, the students chose an animal to design and build.
"Tinsley and I decided on the meerkat," said first-grader Alexei M. "I like how meerkats look."
They started with small shadow models of their selected animal, iterating through revisions until the silhouette captured just the right form. Satisfied with their prototypes, they expanded them into striking, oversized final versions.
"Ari and I did the hyena. We picked it out because we were doing some savannah animals, and I am learning to do the hyena sound," added Jae F. with a smile.
Students also fashioned complementary habitat features, such as snowflakes, fish, sea stars, flowers, vines, and leaves.
Blending science and art over this extended period yielded stunning exhibits that could rival those in a museum. Parents and peers wandered through the display in admiration.
It proved to be a memorable learning journey that the students will cherish for years to come.
"I learned that there are a lot of animals in different biomes. My animal was the African crowned crane," observed Willow D. "I had a lot of fun at the light show."
"This project extended beyond the study of animal biomes and the science of light and shadows. It was also a meaningful lesson in perseverance, collaboration, and the value of revisiting and improving one’s work," said Ms. Knodel. "On the day of the showcase, the students’ excitement and pride were unmistakable. They eagerly guided their families to their displays, proudly pointing out the animals they had worked so hard to create. We are incredibly proud of their dedication, teamwork, and perseverance."
A special thanks to Ms. Lindsay Curry, who provided the lighting and sound for the project.
Jacksonville Country Day School
Located in Jacksonville, FL, Jacksonville Country Day School is a private school for Pre-K 3 through 5th grade. JCDS prepares students for a healthy and productive lifetime of intellectual exploration, character development, and social responsibility.
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