In studying about spring, the Bumblebees got excited about worms. They listened to books about worms in library. They watched science videos about worms' bodies and how important they are to the soil. Then they did some worm art. Friends made worms that could move using an accordion fold. Some friends even painted the way worms might, only these friends used yarn, not worms!

 

Last week the Bumblebees were all home doing distance learning as a safety precaution after a week of spring break. In math they were working on measuring using measuring cups and spoons. This led them to try out an actual recipe. I bet they were delicious and mathematical at the same time. They also looked for signs of spring around their homes. They were able to find many!  

 

The Bumblebees have been learning about the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. These are two pictures of the coral reefs they have been creating. The above picture is an example of an at home student's reef and the below is the coral reef created by the in class students. Bumblebees have looked at what coral really is, the animals who live in and around the coral, the dangers of bleaching and how science is working to save and restore the coral reefs as well as clean the oceans of plastics.

 

Together with their art specialist, Ms. Angela, the Bumblebees worked hard this week on flowers and gardens using sharpie and watercolor or water washable markers painted with water. Both Ms. Angela and I are very impressed with the artistic development we are seeing. Beautiful, creative and impressive work, Bumblebees!

 

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The Bumblebees worked hard, both at home and at school, to build successful leprechaun traps. Although no one caught a real leprechaun there were a number of adventures to relay to the class this morning. Some leprechauns were kind and left notes, chocolates and paper replicas of themselves and their gold. Some were mischievous and left messes of toys, books and glitter. All the traps were thought through carefully and plans were laid to trick the tricksters. Maybe next year someone will catch a real one and earn the pot of gold! Happy St Patrick's Day!

 

These pictures are from a very exciting science/math project the Bumblebees did in creating artificial snow and measuring it before and after. Each student had two scoops of the artificial snow powder on their tray. They measured the height and width of the powder then added a half cup of water and watched the amazing change. The salt like powder granules turned into fluffy, white, cool snow before their eyes. They measured again and found results quadrupling their original measurements. They were impressed with the difference (and had fun playing in the snow as well!)

 

 Here is the Bumblebees contribution to the Read Across America door contest this week. They are very proud of their book covers of a favorite book. I am grateful for a way to have all our at school and at home friends participate in one project that can be displayed together. Thank you to Mrs. Meads for the great idea. Reading is fun, essential, productive, exciting, informational and transporting. Reading is a way to learn, to grow and to experience. Read everyday! Bumblebees do!