Throughout February, 1st Grade students explored space through interactive experiences that inspired curiosity and deepened their understanding.
The unit began with the Class of 2034 exploring the moon's phases by creating edible models with Oreo cookies. As their study of space progressed, students crafted detailed moon models from clay, using various tools to shape craters and even adding an astronaut and an American flag to complete their designs. The class also launched straw rockets, testing their designs to see how far they could go, and created their own telescopes, bringing the universe just a little bit closer.
Continuing their space exploration, students took on the challenge of designing and building their own Mars landers. Using materials such as cotton balls, marshmallows, and straws, they carefully constructed models to ensure their astronauts could land safely. Reflecting on the experience, Mrs. Gunny shared, "At first, I created a demo lander so the children could get a sense of what they were making, and at the last minute, I threw it in the trash and decided to let their imaginations run wild! I am so glad I did because no one lander was similar to the next. The smiles on their faces when they safely landed said it all."
The 1st Grade class culminated their Space Unit with an unforgettable field trip to the California Science Center. The day began with a 3D IMAX movie, Deep Sky, during which students explored the vastness of space and learned about the objects that orbit our universe. After the movie, parent chaperones guided the students through the Center's interactive exhibits, providing them with hands-on opportunities to deepen their understanding of space exploration.
A big thank you to the parent volunteers who helped us take one small step for teachers and one giant leap for 1st Grade!
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