Exploring Interdependency in Desert Ecosystems through Art and Play

Playful Learning

Primary

In a lively classroom exploring the wonders of the Sonoran Desert, students weren’t just learning about animals — they became them. One student embodied a Mexican wolf, prowling on all fours, while their friend fluttered around as a delicate hummingbird. When it was announced that an unexpected rainstorm started, the wolf didn’t hesitate; they called their hummingbird friend to take cover under a desk, instinctively creating shelter amidst the powerful storm.

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Teatro de Salón 13: Welcome To Our Theatre!!!

Literacy, Playful Learning

Early Childhood Education – ECII 5 year olds

Throughout this year, I have worked closely with CONNECT Researcher Dr. Christine Lee and EC2 Demonstration Teachers Kelly Peters, Arlen Nava, and Eric Varela as we investigated the power of wordless books and play in storytelling. Toward the end of this Spring quarter, the EC2 students in Room 13 were able to transform their classroom space into a theater, bringing life to students’ favorite wordless picture books. The Room 13 Theatre featured Home [1], Field Trip to the Moon [2], Mr. Wuffles [3], The Lion and The Mouse [4], Where’s The Walrus [5], and Where’s the Walrus, and Penguin [6]. Each group had students, or actors, who had been practicing telling their favorite wordless stories on a theatrical stage.

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Playing and Storytelling with Creatures

Literacy, Playful Learning

Early Childhood Education – ECII 5 year olds

This year, I have had the opportunity to observe and participate in research on the importance of storytelling through play and wordless picture books with Dr. Christine Lee at CONNECT Research and EC2 Demonstration Teachers Kelly Peters, Eric Varela, and Arlen Nava. In the spring quarter, we created imaginary creatures in Rooms 14 and 15. With rolled papers, pom-pom balls, pipe cleaners, beads, and macaroni, the students of Rooms 14 and 15 sparked their creativity to make imaginary creatures. 

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The Buzz Behind the Bees: Understanding Pollinator Communication Through Play

Inquiry, Playful Learning

Primary Students – 6 & 7 year olds

Bees are incredibly complex creatures. Their perfect hives, symmetry, and intricate group dynamics are a marvel to us humans. Their complex behavior makes them a fascinating subject for study. Over the past year, primary classrooms have collaborated with CONNECT Researcher Dr. Christine Lee to investigate the intersection between plants, pollinators, and people. This blog post dives into one of our most exciting lessons, the Waggle Dance, and why it was an essential part of our educational journey.

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