Puffins, Iceland, Oh.My!


This past few weeks, the kids and I have been working hard to learn lots about Iceland.  My school theme this year was entitled "Global Missions".  Each grade level was assigned a continent.  Each classroom selected a country.  I went with Iceland.  

Iceland.  I know!  Why Iceland?  During the holidays, I take the kids on a global mission around the world.  We learn about landforms from different countries and unique customs.  Iceland is unique due to the Atlantic Fault Line running directly through the middle of the country.  Located within the Ring of Fire, this unique place is as small as Kentucky and one of the most volcanic spots on Earth.  Amazing!  

Through this journey, I created my own puffin clipart...

Isn't he adorable!?!


Another reason I decided to dive into learning about Iceland is Geothermal Energy.  With the conclusion of our studies during Earth Day.  My second graders really understood the importance of harnessing the natural energy that Earth provides. 

To understand the force from a geyser, my students used this cool little device to help mimic the explosion.  

$3.00 at AC and Moore with 1/2 off coupon 

Here is a little mini unit we used for our learning.  Enjoy!!
 
Iceland

It's a slumber party!

I haven't felt like such a kids in years.  Slumber party and Limousine rides!!!  Rewind.  On Friday morning, I picked up my gal pal, Erica from the Atlanta Airport.  

This was my greeting!

We loaded the car and headed to the Georgia Aquarium.  If you live in or around Georgia... this place is a MUST SEE!!!

 Blubber Jelly
 Humphead Wrasse
 Sea Nettle
Whale Shark


After our aquatic adventure, we watched grown men flex at the UFC weigh ins.  Oh.Lord!  I'm not even gonna open up on the conversations here!

After a few short hours, I was having dinner with my gals and a tag-along husband.


We had our hotel rooms grouped together and talked all night.  Deanna, Erica, and Anna were a hoot. Only a few hours later (no kidding, we really talked all night long), we were meeting our blog buddies for ride in style to lunch!

 Left to Right


My husband said, "Pimpin ain't easy"

We had the MOST amazing gift donated by my blog friend, Kacey of Doodle Bugs Paper.  Seriously!  You have to check out her store.  She has the cutest stuff! Check out this bundle...


 Don't you just love this!
Click the Doodle Bugs link above to check out the stationary!


Kacey, I can't wait to give you a hug in person!!!
Until then.. (((HUGS)))

Kids love to shop too!

Do you have a classroom store?  What a fantastic way to work on money standards.  Trading up, making change!  You can purchase so many wonderful items in my store... but one reward really gets me excited too.  CRAFTS.  

For the kids who need instant gratification, they can purchase a pencil or highlight magazine but my goal is to teach the kids how to save.  Patience is a virtue.  Good rewards come to those who wait.  

Saving can be challenging but the kiddos are excited when it's shopping day!  They will purchase private time in the reading room or read a book to another class, changing center partners, time on the computers in the morning, shadow a safety patrol or news anchor, change seats in class, eat lunch or go to recess with another class, etc...  The big bad prize would be staying after school to create crafts with me.  (AGAIN... Who's the kid)!?!?!  

AC and Moore has a wonderful coupon to print online for 50% off each week.  I have a collection of crafts to complete with kids that range about $5 dollar with the 1/2 off coupon.  

Check out a few we've completed together

 A model shark...
Painted Picture Frames and Letter Tiles
Dinosaur Casts and Paint
* this one will be created tomorrow!!!

Post a comment and let me know what you have in your classroom store!