Earth Science



On Thursday, the second grade class continued their study of Earth science with a chapter on earthquakes and volcanoes. We supplemented our understanding of earthquakes with a discussion of the recent tragedy on Haiti. The kids talked about how important it is for buildings and bridges to be built securely in the case of this natural disaster. Afterwards, the second graders discussed volcanoes and lava. Most were amazed to learn that lava is actually melted rock and after lava cools down it becomes rock again. We also talked about how many islands were originally made from underwater volcanoes. Ask your child which of our fifty states was once an underwater volcano! Last, the students did an activity where they modeled a volcano out of clay and watched an eruption. Then, we discussed the differences between our model volcano and a real volcano. This is a fun activity that can be done at home as well.


How to Make a Model of a Volcano
Materials:
Clay
Container
Baking Soda
Dish Washing Soap
Vinegar
Stirrer
Red Food Coloring
The first step is to mold the clay around a container (we used a small paper cup) in the shape of a volcano. Then place your volcano in a tin pan in order to catch the 'lava.' After the model is made, pour 1 tbsp. baking soda into the container and mix it with 1 tbsp. dish washing soap. Put in a few drops of red food coloring and mix. Last, fill the rest of the container with vinegar (about 1/4 cup). Watch your volcano erupt!

Friday Math Games


This afternoon the second grade class finished up their work early and were able to play "Math Memory." Everyone has a lot of fun playing and the game is easy enough to make a set for home as well. Since we have been working on two digit subtraction the past couple of weeks, I decided it was time to review addition. Each card has an addition problem on the front with no answer. Every card also has a "match." Two matching cards don't necessarily have the same problem but must have the same sum. For example, the cards 3+8 and 5+6 would be a pair. All of the cards are mixed up and placed face down on the floor. Every player gets a turn to choose two cards and hope they are matches. Over time players can remember where cards that make a certain sum are on the board - this makes the game easier! Try to make a set at home with your second grader and have them teach you how to play!