As the school year draws to a close, many students
find themselves drawn to the outdoors, and heads are filled with thoughts
of vacation. The suggestions in this theme unit cover a variety of curriculum
areas with fun, motivating activities to help wrap up the year. Some can
be done online and others taken outside.
Language Arts
Students can learn about poetry and rhyme by
exploring I Spy riddles, either on their own or as a class. Rhyme can
also be explored through the familiar medium of song, as students create
a class songbook.
Games from other countries (and even our own)
can provide a unique window into other cultures. Students will not only
enjoy playing these games, but they also provide a good introduction for
a discussion about similarities and differences among cultures.
The warm June weather provides many opportunities
for outdoor exploration. These activities allow students to practice their
observation skills, as well as learn about characteristics of living things
— like insects — and their environments.
Shapes and patterns are important math concepts
in the early primary years. Making fruit kebabs is a great way to reinforce
these concepts and have a delicious snack too! Max's Math Adventures give
students opportunities to practice these and other skills online in the
context of rhyming poems.
While art projects can take place year-round,
these activities can be taken outdoors for a special end-of-year treat.
The activities allow students to express themselves creatively with clay
and through dramatic play.
