Summer SAVY Session 4, Day 3, Operation Save the Beach
Day 3: Today, students learned more about the setting for the camp. We researched native plant and animal species in coastal North Carolina. During yesterday’s council meeting, the students made a goal to not harm plants and animals during camp construction. Today they discussed which plants are found near the beach and which are in the wooded area. The students are guiding the work of the council through excellent questioning!
The scientific experiments today involved sand and soil. First, students investigated each using a magnifying glass and by holding samples. They discussed the texture, appearance, and smell of each. Then, water was added, and they observed changes in the sand and soil. We discussed how each is created through the natural processes of weathering and erosion. We also did a simulation of wind erosion using a hair dryer. We measured how far the sand and soil moved with three different speeds of wind. Then, students added tree clippings to represent growing trees. Your child can tell you the difference plants made when the wind began to blow again. We took a walk outside to observe places where soil erosion occurs. We observed the use of plants, mulch, and rocks to prevent, or decrease, erosion. As you walk around your neighborhood, challenge your child to search for signs of erosion and erosion prevention measures.
Our stream table field trip is tomorrow! Please remember that your child must wear close-toed shoes to meet lab requirements. To avoid the heat (and possible rain), the field trip will be the first activity tomorrow. Since we will walk to a different part of campus, it would be good for students to wear sunscreen and bring a raincoat. Please do not send umbrellas. Look for pictures from the field trip in tomorrow’s update!
Mrs. Allison