tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41524172033359688692024-03-19T06:32:47.564+00:00THE LEARNING ARK - Elementary Montessori The elementary Montessori journey of Little-N.N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.comBlogger328125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-38996930651435644272016-12-07T14:32:00.001+00:002016-12-08T03:55:11.354+00:00Montessori Time Zone Studies & Giveaway<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Today, I have decided to blog about something different from the Great Lessons. </div>
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Noah (who is now 12 years), no longer attends a Montessori classroom. This is mostly due to our relocation to another country and my new focus on Montessori training and consultancy (instead of working in a classroom). </div>
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My new work means I have more time at home with Noah which has been lovely. I have decided not to use structured homeschooling, so Noah is pretty much unschooled and just learns when he naturally does which is pretty much all the time. </div>
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I am constantly shifting and organising my collection of Montessori Materials and Noah is always getting involved. It has been very interesting to see his excitement and interest in the Montessori materials he has worked with so often and mastered. </div>
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<u><a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/geography/products/montessori-time-zone-map-and-clocks">Time Zone Map</a></u></div>
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Today he saw the time zone map which he worked with quite a while ago. He was immediately attracted to the tiny clocks and went straight to work with it. Somehow, this material has a different meaning to him as a 12 year old who now lives in a new time zone.</div>
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<img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMkJRpOiInb5MAoJ0IxFej1ENgfxxtyLNwt4QAbppkH_IeRkpHxL1UkJHapizk0WKdwTeziW36byNVXUnE730Og6YaBvzy2rV4FUgyoTEjuTt7s946U2AVsIRBYj3mSP8AZIIYdPyopvU/s320/IMG_1385.JPG" width="320" /></div>
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At the top of the map are blank boxes where Noah places the clocks. Since we live in the +8 time zone, he started there by placing the clock that represents the actual time.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrmEnDuar5VX7NYdy4Y6VAdvBZVMLaRL6h0YrVK70b_HjXu9ZetQVTtrZm4WQLDQMnheGu8XUQriOStHU6pC44R_ZRR7zW5v7tyJKmwogKmWrOGp9ocsW3wmQN17p6RJVOPRtqDJIp_HM/s1600/IMG_1386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrmEnDuar5VX7NYdy4Y6VAdvBZVMLaRL6h0YrVK70b_HjXu9ZetQVTtrZm4WQLDQMnheGu8XUQriOStHU6pC44R_ZRR7zW5v7tyJKmwogKmWrOGp9ocsW3wmQN17p6RJVOPRtqDJIp_HM/s320/IMG_1386.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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He then filled in the other clocks, being mindful to use the red clocks in areas where it is day and black where it is night.</div>
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The next step is to cover the night areas with black strips. Noah didn't want to do this.</div>
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Instead, he moved onto working out the times in all of his favourite countries.</div>
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This time zone map is available to download <a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/geography/products/montessori-time-zone-map-and-clocks">here</a>. </div>
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<u><b>Time Zone Map Giveaway</b></u></div>
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I am giving away one copy of this file for free on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thelearningarkMontessori/?fref=ts">facebook</a> page.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">Follow these three steps to enter the giveaway (make sure you leave a comment on FB so I can enter you into the giveaway):</span></div>
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1. Like The Learning Ark Montessori Materials Facebook page if you have not already.<br />
2. Share the facebook page post on your page or group.<br />
3. Leave a comment on the FB post to let me know where you have shared it.</div>
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I'll use a random number generator to select the winner on Wednesday the 14th of December at 5pm GMT.</div>
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Please make sure you leave a comment so I can enter you in the giveaway.</div>
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I am hoping to giveaway more materials in December so keep a look out for my upcoming posts.</div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-81615065708064071952016-11-21T07:50:00.000+00:002016-11-21T07:50:04.892+00:00 Great Lesson 1 : Molecules [Post 10]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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After working on the periodic table and atoms, work can start on the study of molecules. I love this lesson as it enables the child to become familiar with the basic molecules which we can then refer to in other presentations such as a lesson on photosynthesis. Allowing us to go much deeper with our presentations.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQ3mLr4xj7cT7A3MWkhuXlO4bordcsR_e417R_OK63VMViRMhAMx0BdkV_Mr8Dlmjor47MvFkuBQOMK42pxd253NDPeszd8ijKZjVi4uelUMeGmz33uULAIHb_GDooMR2B6mNs-WkLlI/s1600/IMG_7687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQ3mLr4xj7cT7A3MWkhuXlO4bordcsR_e417R_OK63VMViRMhAMx0BdkV_Mr8Dlmjor47MvFkuBQOMK42pxd253NDPeszd8ijKZjVi4uelUMeGmz33uULAIHb_GDooMR2B6mNs-WkLlI/s320/IMG_7687.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I made <a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/products/montessori-molecule-cards">these molecule cards </a>for the children to use as guidelines for making molecules.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbp6jyBdAWU_JqheIkjmFFr11Y471WIb3RUGDU9jierIZAMs4A2jxFbuO7TuyPbrqIu6NhjBB1kOubp8HDdnf8frmKWm6WHuQoKGL_l_cADW8Tv-5gyviwOTm3MWo5AcntnNh_3fmuVW4/s1600/molecules.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbp6jyBdAWU_JqheIkjmFFr11Y471WIb3RUGDU9jierIZAMs4A2jxFbuO7TuyPbrqIu6NhjBB1kOubp8HDdnf8frmKWm6WHuQoKGL_l_cADW8Tv-5gyviwOTm3MWo5AcntnNh_3fmuVW4/s320/molecules.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: Arial, "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: start;">The cards cover 30 basic molecules and are designed to be used alongside a Molymods kit but can also be used with homemade molecules. These cards are very <a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/products/montessori-molecule-cards">popular in my store</a>.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWBvPAg4I6eTlkdCiXrASmzmL_i8b-sNje-tkONJGnTPYfobuG62VdpxHU-p9HcQGgBWo-AsohW_9_AE5hyUnUFOeP1DbM15NgObyGYiEeUYz2I7zhtapixLgI9KvX6UQ-yAO0SrKEio/s1600/IMG_8073.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWBvPAg4I6eTlkdCiXrASmzmL_i8b-sNje-tkONJGnTPYfobuG62VdpxHU-p9HcQGgBWo-AsohW_9_AE5hyUnUFOeP1DbM15NgObyGYiEeUYz2I7zhtapixLgI9KvX6UQ-yAO0SrKEio/s320/IMG_8073.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here's Noah working with the basic elements using the molymod kit.</div>
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<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61MAPqMmTkL._SL1000_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61MAPqMmTkL._SL1000_.jpg" width="259" /></a></div>
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The molymod kit can be purchased from A<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Molymod-MMS-009-Molecular-Inorganic-Chemistry/dp/B005RUTZ8Q/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1479712597&sr=8-2&keywords=molymods">mazon</a> and is reasonably priced.</div>
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Here are some other ideas of molecule kits I've found in the blogsphere:</div>
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<a href="http://crittersandcrayons.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Molecules-Critters-And-Crayons-3-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://crittersandcrayons.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Molecules-Critters-And-Crayons-3-21.jpg" height="193" width="320" /></a></div>
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(Photo from Critters and Crayons)</div>
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I love this molecule kit used by<a href="http://crittersandcrayons.com/2014/01/12/making-molecules-with-kids-activity/"> Critters and Crayons</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://kidsactivitiesblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/atoms-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://kidsactivitiesblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/atoms-3.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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(Photo from<a href="http://kidsactivitiesblog.com/47951/atoms-molecules-fun-ways-learn"> Kids Activities Blog</a>)</div>
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This is a lovely example of homemade molecule models.</div>
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<a href="http://releasethehasenpfeffer.blogspot.my/2014/02/science-stuff-atoms-elements-molecules.html?m=1">Here is</a> another lovely blogpost using a molecule kit.</div>
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I found this lovely <a href="https://ssl1.van.ca.securedata.net/montessoritraining.net/elementary_program/courses/zoology_chemistry/sample_lessons.htm">sample</a> presentation on the basic molecular theory using marshmallows and toothpicks.</div>
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Interestingly, after Noah worked with our molecule kit and cards, he began seeing molecules everywhere. Once day we walking into a furniture store and saw a light fitting which consisted of balls and rods. Noah immedietly said 'Look mum they've made a methane light fitting'. I love the way Montessori children see the world.😆</div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-85234282390693231992016-10-31T18:31:00.002+00:002016-10-31T18:31:49.329+00:00Great Lesson 1 : The Periodic Table [Post 9]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Following on from my last post on the atom, this post will look at activities and ideas I have used to introduce the periodic table to my class. </div>
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To begin, it is important to have an attractive and accurate periodic table for the children to work with. I created this <a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/products/montessori-periodic-table">periodic table activity</a> below and it is definitely one of my favourite materials. This can be <a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/products/montessori-periodic-table">downloaded from here.</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_bfhzgw_Y2AHghzvn9wElUyeu59wBkvBvDcAxyZ90vRAKw1xfQR8Wzd68ow9ey2kvK6644gnM_SUZOJSYo-r3S5601ul6SDLeH7FYy_O2IrsquK5i7HfjoaIZ9ft0yPvX_OiqWHspSgY/s1600/IMG_0082_0_1024x1024.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_bfhzgw_Y2AHghzvn9wElUyeu59wBkvBvDcAxyZ90vRAKw1xfQR8Wzd68ow9ey2kvK6644gnM_SUZOJSYo-r3S5601ul6SDLeH7FYy_O2IrsquK5i7HfjoaIZ9ft0yPvX_OiqWHspSgY/s320/IMG_0082_0_1024x1024.jpeg" width="248" /></a></div>
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I wanted the periodic table to really stand out, so I made sure I used bright colours on a black background. The control chart includes all the details, while the working chart is blank and the child uses the small printed tiles to construct the periodic table. Initially, the child will work with both charts alongside each other, but eventually, the child should be able to use the blank chart and count how many elements they can place correctly without the control.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDKP644q39g01bnGL8J6x8maI-Qj-YEqsL09KwnVLPLmZ4FUJTcUM18EEiKA4ocpx3bM4yCygRfba7S_TL1HLFHHMwznM0aGcbjXptU9yTlmWBP9lpzJ5pJBr266vi_SYt8jGVKlOEuE/s1600/IMG_7951.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDKP644q39g01bnGL8J6x8maI-Qj-YEqsL09KwnVLPLmZ4FUJTcUM18EEiKA4ocpx3bM4yCygRfba7S_TL1HLFHHMwznM0aGcbjXptU9yTlmWBP9lpzJ5pJBr266vi_SYt8jGVKlOEuE/s320/IMG_7951.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The children can also use the blank chart to make their own periodic table. I have included one with the periodic table for sale <a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/products/montessori-periodic-table">here</a>. Or you can download one for free <a href="http://www.lcmrschooldistrict.com/demers/cbphysicalscience/BlankPeriodicTable%5B1%5D.pdf">here</a>.</div>
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The Elements book by Theodore Gray is a definite must have when working on the periodic table. It contains beautiful images which really capture the children's interest. Noah read this book for hours. </div>
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The book also includes a foldout periodic table like this one below.</div>
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<a href="http://a758.phobos.apple.com/us/r1000/063/Purple/v4/78/2d/5f/782d5f16-f71d-2ba7-4d4d-545e696b2bca/mzl.ghacrfoa.1024x1024-65.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://a758.phobos.apple.com/us/r1000/063/Purple/v4/78/2d/5f/782d5f16-f71d-2ba7-4d4d-545e696b2bca/mzl.ghacrfoa.1024x1024-65.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://elements.wlonk.com/ElementsCards%20(sml).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://elements.wlonk.com/ElementsCards%20(sml).jpg" /></a></div>
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(Photo from http://elements.wlonk.com/)</div>
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I printed these element cards from <a href="http://elements.wlonk.com/">this </a>website. They also have free periodic tables and other element printouts. We used these cards for a matching activity.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7bqXMxPFzxSC5ujfVuj64afyn4fQZtpDLgVGtpp5h-nwkvVP5ljYWJkGAizUukKTcMZgvKvoY03ZFuf-KMe4ESfTser5fyHPrGCIndR3Eh4Rn4IX5cifBLwU-RKt4N3p3S0jZnBSpn9w/s1600/Periodic-Table-Curriculum-Final-Book-56%25281%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7bqXMxPFzxSC5ujfVuj64afyn4fQZtpDLgVGtpp5h-nwkvVP5ljYWJkGAizUukKTcMZgvKvoY03ZFuf-KMe4ESfTser5fyHPrGCIndR3Eh4Rn4IX5cifBLwU-RKt4N3p3S0jZnBSpn9w/s320/Periodic-Table-Curriculum-Final-Book-56%25281%2529.gif" width="247" /></a></div>
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(Photo from ETC Montessori)</div>
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I also have a set of these cards from ETC which are really beautiful. We use these to construct a visual periodic table and to look at the layout of each atom.</div>
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<a href="http://ellenjmchenry.com/store/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/quick_six_400pix_000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ellenjmchenry.com/store/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/quick_six_400pix_000.jpg" height="197" width="320" /></a></div>
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(Photo from http://ellenjmchenry.com/)</div>
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These cards are also available for a <a href="http://www.ellenjmchenry.com/homeschool-freedownloads/chemistry-games/documents/QuickSix_12_11_000.pdf">free download</a> with instructions on how to play the Quick Six card game.</div>
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I used <a href="https://halfahundredacrewood.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/elementflashcards.pdf">this free </a>download for children to create their own element booklets.</div>
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<a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a8/Periodic_Table_of_Elements_showing_Electron_Shells.svg/460px-Periodic_Table_of_Elements_showing_Electron_Shells.svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a8/Periodic_Table_of_Elements_showing_Electron_Shells.svg/460px-Periodic_Table_of_Elements_showing_Electron_Shells.svg.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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(Photo from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electron_shell">Wikipedia</a>)</div>
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To help children make the elements on our atom board, I printed out this periodic table from wikipedia and cut it into individual elements. The cards show the number of electrons in each shell. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Ps6WqtB5jG_0YczIDK__nFJrVhn42eW6xywVR5WYM7CEZ3uBKRcfa9hbhFhPvxKz8y_L0hqGiLupxaVrB0KD8GZrXnpJdoPdhBWGPrGRvZuy8kgfe70LCTyGKuIjyRKBa9J4uG29TGg/s1600/IMG_5910_1_1024x1024.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Ps6WqtB5jG_0YczIDK__nFJrVhn42eW6xywVR5WYM7CEZ3uBKRcfa9hbhFhPvxKz8y_L0hqGiLupxaVrB0KD8GZrXnpJdoPdhBWGPrGRvZuy8kgfe70LCTyGKuIjyRKBa9J4uG29TGg/s320/IMG_5910_1_1024x1024.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.my/2016/10/great-lesson-1-atom-post-8.html">This</a> previous post shows our atom board.</div>
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(Photo from <a href="http://teresabondora.tumblr.com/post/140348181523/elements-tins">Unusual Outburst of a Scientific Mind</a>)</div>
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I love this idea and would like to encourage my class to make individual element boxes which are added to by students over the years. The items can also used for something like below:</div>
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/6a/b7/47/6ab747eeb4de5e965af43d85e8d6b4a4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/6a/b7/47/6ab747eeb4de5e965af43d85e8d6b4a4.jpg" /></a></div>
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(Photo from <a href="https://uk.pinterest.com/pin/463730092865003246/">Pinterest</a>)</div>
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(Photo from <a href="http://media.defense.gov/2007/Jul/20/2000468923/-1/-1/0/072007-F-0000P-0022.JPG">here</a>)</div>
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Finally for our next project, I would really like to make a floor sized periodic table, where each element is one A4 page. This would specifically appeal to kinesthetic and spacial learners. I plan to use the element printout from <a href="http://sciencenotes.org/periodic-table-element-cells/">here</a> but keep to the original colours from our Montessori periodic table.</div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-85841881637876770422016-10-24T15:43:00.002+01:002016-11-16T13:21:49.281+00:00Great Lesson 1 : The Atom [Post 8]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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A lovely follow up for the first great lesson is to look at atoms, molecules and the periodic table. </div>
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<u>Atom 3-part Cards</u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzjOjSrCw5ljCUV6Tv9velnm3hc97CGs8kBzGBskiVz-uwr4HzCqYdUtFIrvNUaHFZifceC1GVDooX7jgrh_qGVGHuuAMiVtuP4W_vmezDpwkZN7wJOl25aJ6MkjJT-kGbG51xjLX85U/s1600/atom+periodic+table+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkzjOjSrCw5ljCUV6Tv9velnm3hc97CGs8kBzGBskiVz-uwr4HzCqYdUtFIrvNUaHFZifceC1GVDooX7jgrh_qGVGHuuAMiVtuP4W_vmezDpwkZN7wJOl25aJ6MkjJT-kGbG51xjLX85U/s320/atom+periodic+table+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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To start off with, the children are reminded of the elements mentioned in the great lesson. They are then introduced to the parts of the atom using these three part cards. These cards can be purchased from my Montessori Material Store <a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/products/parts-of-the-atom-and-element-research">here</a> alongside some using worksheets.</div>
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/products/parts-of-the-atom-and-element-research"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1333/1865/products/atoms_1024x1024.png?v=1465941700" width="320" /></a></div>
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Next, I encourage the children to make their own model of an atom based on what they have understood. This allows them to demonstrate their knowledge and get creative. Here are two models Noah made back in 2014.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbLkKnund2CSbXfcBPEA7jcC87xOKyZ5ZqMQu2k3qqC9Cb1VjXMq8Ib7OqLRry0Y_wLpeeWcz__Nr_t2VaDTdfWQMd45SgqUe6WYhZpmKS2tLPkiJVYwREN-Y4uoYmo5LAPX0-yDcGpo/s1600/NZ__6_.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHbLkKnund2CSbXfcBPEA7jcC87xOKyZ5ZqMQu2k3qqC9Cb1VjXMq8Ib7OqLRry0Y_wLpeeWcz__Nr_t2VaDTdfWQMd45SgqUe6WYhZpmKS2tLPkiJVYwREN-Y4uoYmo5LAPX0-yDcGpo/s320/NZ__6_.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuR-lvO_cFzv6v3PCvkF2ELimy1YLODlbdzTib-AucqtwIsnrW_cNzXVO99ZIyHeOa2KKRf0t7LF3PAt03UKlSTlfPOz78b9XT0wcejAmS4mBUptir-SGn-3hyphenhyphenWsR-FC4Rz4UCuy1_RLQ/s1600/NZ__3_.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuR-lvO_cFzv6v3PCvkF2ELimy1YLODlbdzTib-AucqtwIsnrW_cNzXVO99ZIyHeOa2KKRf0t7LF3PAt03UKlSTlfPOz78b9XT0wcejAmS4mBUptir-SGn-3hyphenhyphenWsR-FC4Rz4UCuy1_RLQ/s320/NZ__3_.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Next, we begin constructing atoms and comparing them. To do this, the children need to be introduced to the <a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/science/products/montessori-periodic-table">periodic table</a> and atomic number. I will post about the periodic table lessons separately. </div>
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<u>Atom Board</u></div>
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A lovely material for construction of atoms is the Bohr Board. I didn't want to spend $120 so I decided to make my own. It was so easy and the children loved it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrfFH-2d4jtEZfrsAUFQtOTVQCRoVR_mmhnb2iCpzX3QKCtFeijWTQXxCprai3-2jTuv0dgNbwYWXDIneRWbZMC_OXLjS3tGLOQ5P0MfZ8wqFqdmZ5lvs_LTXB8-d7qVGuoNRFo65mm38/s1600/atom+board.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrfFH-2d4jtEZfrsAUFQtOTVQCRoVR_mmhnb2iCpzX3QKCtFeijWTQXxCprai3-2jTuv0dgNbwYWXDIneRWbZMC_OXLjS3tGLOQ5P0MfZ8wqFqdmZ5lvs_LTXB8-d7qVGuoNRFo65mm38/s320/atom+board.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I started off with a square piece of plywood 50cm x 50cm. I marked on the shells using a pen and compass. The holes for the electrons were made using a Stanley knife. It's important to make the exact number of holes in each shell. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1pRqMTrR1RxuD2xv-qzIqJhmOZrKNPe4VldiGhCeHKeLVsZuT99WwfQctAsaWxXRb0tv80QR0i85UfV3bPx_w72RIKjkZoNlCVS51j6Ui-TXKd7GIPYwAo0vUbS3ffHJjdufFgLCQMw/s1600/IMG_7507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1pRqMTrR1RxuD2xv-qzIqJhmOZrKNPe4VldiGhCeHKeLVsZuT99WwfQctAsaWxXRb0tv80QR0i85UfV3bPx_w72RIKjkZoNlCVS51j6Ui-TXKd7GIPYwAo0vUbS3ffHJjdufFgLCQMw/s320/IMG_7507.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This photo shows a better view of one I made on the bottom shelf. This one has a lovely wooden grain which added to the beauty of this material.</div>
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We used the beads from the small square peg board as protons, neutrons and electrons. The protons and neutrons were placed in a cup at the centre of the atom. The cup isn't showing in this photo as Noah is filling it up. The electrons sit in the little holes.</div>
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<a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/66/Periodic_Table_of_Elements_showing_Electron_Shells_(2011_version).svg/1920px-Periodic_Table_of_Elements_showing_Electron_Shells_(2011_version).svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/66/Periodic_Table_of_Elements_showing_Electron_Shells_(2011_version).svg/1920px-Periodic_Table_of_Elements_showing_Electron_Shells_(2011_version).svg.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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I printed out this period table and cut it into individual cards. The children use these as a guide for placing the electrons when constructing atoms on the Bohr board. </div>
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I found some lovely examples of Bohr Boards on these blogs:</div>
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<li style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://eclecticlvng.blogspot.my/2010/09/montessori-chemistry-works-part-1.html">Eclectic Living</a></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&ved=0ahUKEwiN7drjgezPAhUBM48KHVThBEwQjxwIAw&url=https%3A%2F%2Feavice.wordpress.com%2Ftag%2Fbohrs-model%2F&psig=AFQjCNF1SsXSIGD-1zLgKnU-fdhvtP6EUA&ust=1477142135389438">Somewhat in the Air</a></li>
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Next, I encourage the children to select their favourite elements and make charts or diagrams like this lovely one. The flags are labelling the parts.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHsNV0V8m8ePsiwNT8FnAoJWulYrk4wAbbOeeQe_6Z2XjTNdrYdqQNrdtYS5TQ1wMAVY3wtcFObnf3heI6Y2NjRkranWfo4ci0Q6DJh1Omp67aCyHsQWfEFIF44UkD-lg_7DlCd8PGDk/s1600/IMG_7715.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHsNV0V8m8ePsiwNT8FnAoJWulYrk4wAbbOeeQe_6Z2XjTNdrYdqQNrdtYS5TQ1wMAVY3wtcFObnf3heI6Y2NjRkranWfo4ci0Q6DJh1Omp67aCyHsQWfEFIF44UkD-lg_7DlCd8PGDk/s320/IMG_7715.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Some children decide to make a booklet of the first 20 elements or so using the worksheet included in my set above.</div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-57482552149063828312016-10-10T12:47:00.000+01:002016-10-10T12:47:00.492+01:00Great Lesson 1 : Moon Phases [Post 7]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Since I have <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.my/2016/10/blog-onupdates.html">renewed my vows</a> to blog again..I will be starting with continuing my <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.my/2015/10/great-lesson-1-follow-up-ideas.html">Great Lesson</a> 1 posts from 2015. </div>
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The next great lesson 1 follow up activities are on the moon phases. </div>
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<u>Moon Phase Box</u></div>
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This first thing I like to do with moon phases, is provide the children with experiences that help them to understand why the moon appears differently throughout the month. I do this through a series of activities which they can repeat as often as they like.</div>
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Firstly, I gather the children to make a moon box like this. </div>
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(photo from education.com)</div>
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Instructions for a moon box can be found <a href="http://www.education.com/science-fair/article/phases-of-the-moon/">here</a> and <a href="http://sciencenotebooking.blogspot.my/2012/02/moon-phase-box.html">here</a>. This is fairly simple to make, so I allow my elementary children to get on and make one themselves. Once the box is made, we shine a torch through and peep through the different holes. Looking through each hole, the child will see the moon appear differently. If possible, use a circular box as this will give and even better impression. </div>
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<u>Moon Phase Demonstration</u></div>
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<a href="http://www.nasa.gov/centers/jpl/images/content/481247main_moonphases-640a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.nasa.gov/centers/jpl/images/content/481247main_moonphases-640a.jpg" height="175" width="320" /></a></div>
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(photo from nasa.gov)</div>
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Another activity we do is model out the moon phases in a dark room. For this I have the child stand in the centre of a dark room on a printed earth, to symbolise viewing the moon from the earth. The child hold a polystyrene moon on a cocktail stick straight in front of him. Another child stands at one end of the room holding a torch, shining on the child on the earth. The child in the centre (on the earth) rotates slowly, holding the moon out in front of him observing the moon's appearance as it changes. </div>
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The Nasa website has detailed instructions of how to demonstrate this <a href="http://www.nasa.gov/centers/jpl/education/moonphases-20100913.html">here</a>. </div>
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Here's a youtube video that shows the demonstration.</div>
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/wz01pTvuMa0/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wz01pTvuMa0?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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Through these two activities and others, the child develops an understanding of what moon phases are. This makes the language of the moon phases so much more meaningful. </div>
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<u>Moon Phase 3-part Cards</u></div>
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ETC Montessori have a lovely set of moon phase cards which I have used for years. The cards can be downloaded for free from their website <a href="http://www.etcmontessorionline.com/_literature_139677/Moon">here</a>. Unfortunately, I don't have a photo of them set up.</div>
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<u>Moon Phase Chart</u></div>
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My children then use the 3-part cards to make their own moon chart like this. This one is very basic, using a white pencil. However, I love to give the children a full range of materials to get creative and make their charts out of anything they like.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7IGdEMZu1kNXq8W5_5FTpN8ZwUoo6ap_BQOBrBC9j-r_CoToh0PlpIhCJm4J68t5FQFwCaVQWfFCGTlalRDsR_VBHtciN1NLo0SGIMzHCukpcknHOHbby6ieZ7x1-SdOSwc9Pw6IiQE/s1600/IMG_7686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi7IGdEMZu1kNXq8W5_5FTpN8ZwUoo6ap_BQOBrBC9j-r_CoToh0PlpIhCJm4J68t5FQFwCaVQWfFCGTlalRDsR_VBHtciN1NLo0SGIMzHCukpcknHOHbby6ieZ7x1-SdOSwc9Pw6IiQE/s320/IMG_7686.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<u>Moon Phase Puzzles</u></div>
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Unfortunately, I am not lucky enough to have a moon phase puzzle yet! This is one piece of material I have on my waiting list to make. I have seen quite a few blogs with home made puzzles. This felt puzzle from <a href="http://www.pinayhomeschooler.com/2012/04/moon.html">Pinay Homeschooler is lovely</a>!</div>
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<a href="http://livingmontessorinow.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC_032425255B325255D-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://livingmontessorinow.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/DSC_032425255B325255D-1.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
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(photo from The Pinay Homeschooler)</div>
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<u>Moon Research</u></div>
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As with all the other follow up lessons, I guide the children to research our moon themselves. Some have even gone on to look at the moons of other planets. As with all research I encourage the children to record their finding and make visual props to demonstrate their understanding. This usually leads to a classroom performance giving all the children the opportunity to hear what has been researched. </div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-86167262385943288812016-10-09T12:47:00.004+01:002016-10-09T12:48:49.551+01:00Blog on...Updates...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9tEm9EOvGYdxc5IfwXXYC1eIC4CredgC4gETHa5XNtRngUeJZINOxTIKp6y0q1Z6cEK9vpL6s7oeZecto917s9m8Ed50Jh2jhCZfIglbunliRHWj-5dNEXI1kr1Ndg14jWmvc9pHMb0/s1600/keep-calm-and-blog-on-10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9tEm9EOvGYdxc5IfwXXYC1eIC4CredgC4gETHa5XNtRngUeJZINOxTIKp6y0q1Z6cEK9vpL6s7oeZecto917s9m8Ed50Jh2jhCZfIglbunliRHWj-5dNEXI1kr1Ndg14jWmvc9pHMb0/s320/keep-calm-and-blog-on-10.png" width="274" /></a></div>
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I know it's been a long time since I last posted. I see amazing things in my class and snap photos with every intention to share...but somehow never get round to posting them. The demands of life take over and before I realise, almost a year has passed. I am grateful for all those readers who still message me here or on Facebook, to ask me for the next post and to tell me how much they miss my regular photos and comments. I am amazed that I still get 100s of visitors on this page every day despite my infrequent updates.<br />
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I have every intention to renew my blogging traditions and bring life back to this page. My life has moved onto a new stage. One that is more focused on being a Montessori Trainer that truly supports student teachers to become the best Montessori teachers possible. I hope this new focus allows me more time to blog and the opportunity to achieve some of my other Montessori goals. As a Montessori trainer, I will not only be focused on training teachers but as a homeschooler, I would love to support families who decide to use Montessori as the way to educate their children.<br />
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Little-N...is also not so little anymore...he's twelve and well on his way to the next plane of development. It's fascinating to see the transition and to see how he compares to peers who didn't attend Montessori. I would like to share the success of his 12 years Montessori journey and show those of you how are still on their journey with younger children that Montessori education really works. The fruits at the end of the Montessori home-schooling journey are well worth the struggles.<br />
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So, I hope and pray this post is the first of many more to come. And if my blog goes quiet again...please send me a little nudge to keep it alive...X<br />
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-36757191323191135902015-11-14T22:12:00.001+00:002015-11-15T11:46:03.648+00:00Great Lesson 1 : Solar System [Post 6]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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There are many great Montessori posts on the solar system. This post may not add anything new to the blogosphere, but I feel it is necessary for my First Great Lesson posts. So here is a glimpse at what we do.</div>
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<u>3-Part Planet Cards</u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmdhyrqR1Gfk6qTDzW9ckHkbyXskNP9hx4MR3COgDdCyFSeRbqkcB04xO61Tu7w6F8D2ICgDojQTtMBOrXUv1GrxcCt4XyDd4xwOWiSv-4sNg0yKRkESqczVhp4EckYpsuTXGSNZq0xLg/s1600/planets+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmdhyrqR1Gfk6qTDzW9ckHkbyXskNP9hx4MR3COgDdCyFSeRbqkcB04xO61Tu7w6F8D2ICgDojQTtMBOrXUv1GrxcCt4XyDd4xwOWiSv-4sNg0yKRkESqczVhp4EckYpsuTXGSNZq0xLg/s320/planets+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJRH3J73j722tiyKO9XkewdiM3V0ij3bgRU9VnkR9QJd0J4FJ70pnraMRuVx_ffzYV2zIvwu7vGkV-RaqiPttyQRKzlp6CeNEucJt5m3VL0R9BfwLIt8-_2u3uGKdLnztvKsyj6BHSK0/s1600/IMG_7577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBJRH3J73j722tiyKO9XkewdiM3V0ij3bgRU9VnkR9QJd0J4FJ70pnraMRuVx_ffzYV2zIvwu7vGkV-RaqiPttyQRKzlp6CeNEucJt5m3VL0R9BfwLIt8-_2u3uGKdLnztvKsyj6BHSK0/s320/IMG_7577.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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3-part planet cards with handmade scale models.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYIflmYYOUgblYPvX6Z4ayqrlr8nMQSXhv3I6BmZ0fii5wxros6ILNFel-1Liz4jUqQ50NNQrFIHgCd3pYiYgOoyGmPzu1vDQHZc-lOTUPl3Q-_2pBhOA5js_xz6dH6mD2YudxuoRARiE/s1600/planets+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYIflmYYOUgblYPvX6Z4ayqrlr8nMQSXhv3I6BmZ0fii5wxros6ILNFel-1Liz4jUqQ50NNQrFIHgCd3pYiYgOoyGmPzu1vDQHZc-lOTUPl3Q-_2pBhOA5js_xz6dH6mD2YudxuoRARiE/s320/planets+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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These models are made from polystyrene balls. They are made to scale to our sun mat.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6uMyYSGOqynTUqB8mkDA4TWWc5K-g2-79LDqGRHGB5znx11EuvDNg-WxyKg0o9Hwk6tWmZBtv9OstvkvTgIPtPYFJzRI4oppnXopICGOCzvJ4c9XLP1-x_8iaFs51hIyIKwIowsDRvZk/s1600/IMG_7543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6uMyYSGOqynTUqB8mkDA4TWWc5K-g2-79LDqGRHGB5znx11EuvDNg-WxyKg0o9Hwk6tWmZBtv9OstvkvTgIPtPYFJzRI4oppnXopICGOCzvJ4c9XLP1-x_8iaFs51hIyIKwIowsDRvZk/s320/IMG_7543.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Imagine Our Life has this <a href="http://www.imagineourlife.com/printables/Solar-System-3-Part-Cards.pdf">free download for planet cards</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://www.imagineourlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Solar-System-3-Part-Cards-1000x657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.imagineourlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Solar-System-3-Part-Cards-1000x657.jpg" height="210" width="320" /></a></div>
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[Photo from Image Our Life]</div>
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<u>Scale of Planets</u></div>
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The scale of planets fascinates the elementary child and suits their imaginative mind. Lolly has a lovely post on her blog Elementary Observations<a href="http://elementaryobservations.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/suns-family.html"> here</a>. She has a free download for a planet scale activity. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKryL7Sj2yVfAb3SiHVxtKU5-NVPx8FQbraAETsqFrKI6vAHITslgwfCOR-k6G_Nyegfe3QjXOf0RK6rpphCXgoSd8PmgWzIclGROUfa3zfB1v8fEdR0n-2ftWRRCauZ0z5g8Vpda8T4Oz/s1600/SS-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKryL7Sj2yVfAb3SiHVxtKU5-NVPx8FQbraAETsqFrKI6vAHITslgwfCOR-k6G_Nyegfe3QjXOf0RK6rpphCXgoSd8PmgWzIclGROUfa3zfB1v8fEdR0n-2ftWRRCauZ0z5g8Vpda8T4Oz/s1600/SS-11.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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[Photo from Elementary Observations]</div>
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<u>Solar System Riddles</u></div>
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Lolly also has this set of <a href="http://elementaryobservations.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/suns-family.html">Solar System riddles</a> which are perfect for the elementary classroom. Riddles are always a big hit in my class. These are also the perfect way to integrate language arts into the great lessons. I also encourage my children to write their own riddles.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iif8zT6_YdWzLVvHj_5Uiqjm8MsltsF7LOlfo2T1LTnRIZJr92uunxdeMu1SqI7JcQUZJy-iKGVlNCMUSZsm7r3W0kV3zzPUESSmstAiaVN-ZaxxSghZQvWmH1gimVft4Tjxh1zAZvda/s1600/IMG_8348.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-iif8zT6_YdWzLVvHj_5Uiqjm8MsltsF7LOlfo2T1LTnRIZJr92uunxdeMu1SqI7JcQUZJy-iKGVlNCMUSZsm7r3W0kV3zzPUESSmstAiaVN-ZaxxSghZQvWmH1gimVft4Tjxh1zAZvda/s1600/IMG_8348.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
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[Photo from Elementary Observations]</div>
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<u>Planet Research</u></div>
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As usual, I encourage my children to pick a planet to research. This is the sheet we use for the younger children. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4wRpBs6JQmVsGX793zHAo0bgN5RxauUVeWX4sIPH_rsEuDN41XaNTbgx9hYFTz8nOzvMaNgY8e_cgA_2pCXIxGfgKqnbnz1kb3HmgPpAZex1Y-0WN2r7n84fDJu9Oh2eKClkypoEjNk/s1600/IMG_7562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4wRpBs6JQmVsGX793zHAo0bgN5RxauUVeWX4sIPH_rsEuDN41XaNTbgx9hYFTz8nOzvMaNgY8e_cgA_2pCXIxGfgKqnbnz1kb3HmgPpAZex1Y-0WN2r7n84fDJu9Oh2eKClkypoEjNk/s320/IMG_7562.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I saw the original somewhere in blogsphere but can't remember where. The questions asked are:</div>
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Name of Planet?</div>
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What number is this planet from the Sun?</div>
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How far is this Planet from the Sun?</div>
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How big is this Planet from one end to another (diameter)?</div>
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What is the temperature of this Planet?</div>
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Does the Planet have an atmosphere?</div>
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Which gases make up its atmosphere?</div>
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Three facts about this Planet</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">I encourage each child to research one planet and together we create solar system research book. Sometimes a couple of children decide to research all the planets themselves and make their own booklets.</span><br />
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I have these astronomy research guides from <a href="http://www.montessoriforeveryone.com/Astronomy-Research-Guides_p_85.html">Montessori for Everyone</a>. I use this with my older children.</div>
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<a href="http://www.montessoriforeveryone.com/thumbnail.asp?file=assets/images/astronomy_research_1.jpg&maxx=300&maxy=0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.montessoriforeveryone.com/thumbnail.asp?file=assets/images/astronomy_research_1.jpg&maxx=300&maxy=0" /></a></div>
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[Photo from Montessori For Everyone]</div>
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<u>Astronomy 3-Part Cards</u></div>
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I also have these<a href="http://www.montessoriforeveryone.com/Astronomy-Concepts-Nomenclature-Cards_p_23.html"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #1f5e92; letter-spacing: -1px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Astronomy Concepts Nomenclature Cards</span></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.montessoriforeveryone.com/thumbnail.asp?file=assets/images/astronomy%20concepts1(1).jpg&maxx=300&maxy=0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.montessoriforeveryone.com/thumbnail.asp?file=assets/images/astronomy%20concepts1(1).jpg&maxx=300&maxy=0" /></a></div>
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[Photo from Montessori For Everyone] </div>
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There is something similar for <a href="http://researchparent.com/wp-content/uploads/Universe_Cards.pdf">free here</a>.</div>
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<u>Planet Related Experiments</u></div>
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The <a href="http://www.montessoriforeveryone.com/Geography-Impressionistic-Chart-Set-6-9_p_314.html">Geography Impressionistic Charts</a> from Montessori for Everyone has a solar system chart and planet related experiment cards. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZDM2Wt7dOg7mFS0g-W6evUAw1Dto56PHlljq9R21jjzq5czjewVZx-F_RzqdRKQvE5F388wXq4BjS2zED2ErT6fjbibBSOVdIjH_HheECaZ4MtQArvQ5kX8FRvHQxLdwqSrlotl3PAY/s1600/IMG_7626.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZDM2Wt7dOg7mFS0g-W6evUAw1Dto56PHlljq9R21jjzq5czjewVZx-F_RzqdRKQvE5F388wXq4BjS2zED2ErT6fjbibBSOVdIjH_HheECaZ4MtQArvQ5kX8FRvHQxLdwqSrlotl3PAY/s320/IMG_7626.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Noah doing the colour of Mars experiment.</div>
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These are the experiments in the pack. </div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">The bands of jupiter: It is very similar to <a href="http://www.playdoughtoplato.com/rainbow-jar-st-patricks-day/">this</a> experiment on density.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">The colour of Mars [above].</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">The impact of craters: A brief description on <a href="http://homeschoolescapade.blogspot.co.uk/2011/08/space-unit-day-1.html">here</a> and <a href="http://www.playingbythebook.net/2010/01/04/crashing-in-to-the-new-year/">here</a>.</li>
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<u>Solar System Pastels Drawings</u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOccWyw4JWaBjtVzX82w2fACXo9SFwCl4k-CIhK_eEGwIETaIo7FqA8qD5vCktX5vnUqtjKnZoptAp2T32UsymBY9Yfencv0GcDqx-HHDW82FOZAKByl2tFEpEUIpvKwQKeiQk-7aJ39E/s1600/IMG_7632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOccWyw4JWaBjtVzX82w2fACXo9SFwCl4k-CIhK_eEGwIETaIo7FqA8qD5vCktX5vnUqtjKnZoptAp2T32UsymBY9Yfencv0GcDqx-HHDW82FOZAKByl2tFEpEUIpvKwQKeiQk-7aJ39E/s320/IMG_7632.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinThbpgoDWrAr1E-qdlc5OcDuPcXzqZH6tWmkETrILjH9tlapsQE-61rwzUQN8fjW-pQ0mMETtOKxZBDPdc1fmjQ8jYPcPIgcusVna11Drm5ihbG84T6nhDDSyE2mKLv18jww1AwzPoVs/s1600/IMG_7640+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinThbpgoDWrAr1E-qdlc5OcDuPcXzqZH6tWmkETrILjH9tlapsQE-61rwzUQN8fjW-pQ0mMETtOKxZBDPdc1fmjQ8jYPcPIgcusVna11Drm5ihbG84T6nhDDSyE2mKLv18jww1AwzPoVs/s320/IMG_7640+%25281%2529.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<u>Solar System Dance</u></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5ygD6jmw4SQ/TIZeG7WwpBI/AAAAAAAACmo/_m46prwoOAk/s1600/DSCF2031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_5ygD6jmw4SQ/TIZeG7WwpBI/AAAAAAAACmo/_m46prwoOAk/s1600/DSCF2031.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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[Photo from <a href="http://cmaflash.blogspot.co.uk/2010/09/dance-of-cosmos.html">Central Montessori Academy</a>]</div>
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The solar system dance is really fun and best done outside. Each child takes on the role of a planet, the sun, the moon or an asteroid. Each role is described in detail and the children act out the solar system. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimwOSO4FgplsCk8cMM29-Y9_Rg9Vwj5JTe-8AyHLw3ujGH6yQA3KNqTBzDQS_ITvqNktKTk9auh_rKCUgp72YnBHszryezD6JqSeJtckp9szCv4fBOLSlbsCn8AiajOtjttFufqsQxCXQ/s1600/solar+system+dance.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimwOSO4FgplsCk8cMM29-Y9_Rg9Vwj5JTe-8AyHLw3ujGH6yQA3KNqTBzDQS_ITvqNktKTk9auh_rKCUgp72YnBHszryezD6JqSeJtckp9szCv4fBOLSlbsCn8AiajOtjttFufqsQxCXQ/s1600/solar+system+dance.JPG" /></a></div>
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I made these labels for the children to wear while doing the dance. They can be downloaded for free <a href="http://thelearningark.com/content/solar-system-dance-labels">here</a>.</div>
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<u>Distance of the Planets From Sun</u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0natdj6via00shq7aAWlacCkTSLbqDRx3_aL3KwZjdWZwG7FqklIB6fn2VC4F_jrAnmfamBi4YepkzcQoNQ4qK1V8UjYczMkxzxTX0oE38i088COlPl-EFI3gFoekHNQwZTJh-42Dqdl/s1600/download-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0natdj6via00shq7aAWlacCkTSLbqDRx3_aL3KwZjdWZwG7FqklIB6fn2VC4F_jrAnmfamBi4YepkzcQoNQ4qK1V8UjYczMkxzxTX0oE38i088COlPl-EFI3gFoekHNQwZTJh-42Dqdl/s1600/download-5.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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[Photo from <a href="http://beakersandbumblebees.blogspot.co.uk/2010_01_01_archive.html">Beakers and Bumblebees</a>]</div>
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This is a lesson that I can't wait to try.There is a blog post about it <a href="http://www.pbs.org/parents/adventures-in-learning/2014/12/solar-system-scale-model/">here</a> and another <a href="http://beakersandbumblebees.blogspot.co.uk/2010/01/toilet-paper.html">here</a>.</div>
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The instructions for this solar system toilet <a href="https://astrosociety.org/edu/family/materials/toiletpaper.pdf">paper activity can be found here.</a></div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-37774475291215127632015-10-29T14:48:00.002+00:002016-06-19T10:10:55.353+01:00Great Lesson 1 : Types of Galaxies [Post 5]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Galaxies are another fantastic follow up to the first great lesson.</div>
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Since galaxies are incredibly beautiful, I wasn't satisfied with printing out pictures for this lesson. I wanted pictures that would inspire awe and creativity. So with a friend of mine, I created these galaxy pastel drawings. </div>
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We first spoke about the formation of galaxies, recalling what was discussed in the great lesson. Next we introduced three types of galaxies; spiral, elliptical and irregular. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizkkxg_wPZa0kgoO7u4VsQTBhXty1W6O-Dzs2wgbZJonCZg1DSiVhtku3JlCJGnTiQLDJz9t93nPtoT9_M1uEWF4mieN_eBkmqFMc45rveo1ChIoU7fcuxkTNslNE3VX1VAORVvxDR360/s1600/IMG_0302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizkkxg_wPZa0kgoO7u4VsQTBhXty1W6O-Dzs2wgbZJonCZg1DSiVhtku3JlCJGnTiQLDJz9t93nPtoT9_M1uEWF4mieN_eBkmqFMc45rveo1ChIoU7fcuxkTNslNE3VX1VAORVvxDR360/s320/IMG_0302.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is a layout of all three galaxies.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8FxR4zGD0LBTIF3mSLq4NXbkjO9XP0UL-3TM3JtXPudg_uCc7I_PNfwbi5XZZuEVqA8iXWq466TjvXJYTbbuVJgI_lLYNpqlmS8udU0aDs0rSNyGH4yd5D0ZGmHMj2kceFdkfaf4iv8g/s1600/IMG_0303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8FxR4zGD0LBTIF3mSLq4NXbkjO9XP0UL-3TM3JtXPudg_uCc7I_PNfwbi5XZZuEVqA8iXWq466TjvXJYTbbuVJgI_lLYNpqlmS8udU0aDs0rSNyGH4yd5D0ZGmHMj2kceFdkfaf4iv8g/s320/IMG_0303.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Spiral Galaxy</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_zgzAVUqdvSdDM4VVFA2y6-Ww4kHDy9yCVHXQvs3Ax4NOfZjN-AbMJKQvk8pB3jn6QjOPvkslLSfFtDMjQ2fouHha7-6FDImgDSHGIaICGJLqkkAZ8A5FFH-vfY6LZkSU013Jkx7ESU/s1600/IMG_0304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA_zgzAVUqdvSdDM4VVFA2y6-Ww4kHDy9yCVHXQvs3Ax4NOfZjN-AbMJKQvk8pB3jn6QjOPvkslLSfFtDMjQ2fouHha7-6FDImgDSHGIaICGJLqkkAZ8A5FFH-vfY6LZkSU013Jkx7ESU/s320/IMG_0304.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Elliptical Galaxy</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXyad0gFeg94hHFTnJI7GzxxKSlKo3N1J_lDAWf7erUSlZfV4ysG0seoPLeXki4AVIREk28gR-nwXqnR-Pt64tajEpc0fQJAXDuDyFzRQMOtBQZFgcSa6sLt-W-8xGymOcUlQTHAEiIjI/s1600/IMG_0305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXyad0gFeg94hHFTnJI7GzxxKSlKo3N1J_lDAWf7erUSlZfV4ysG0seoPLeXki4AVIREk28gR-nwXqnR-Pt64tajEpc0fQJAXDuDyFzRQMOtBQZFgcSa6sLt-W-8xGymOcUlQTHAEiIjI/s320/IMG_0305.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Irregular Galaxy</div>
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We used this poster as a guide for the types of galaxies. This can be downloaded for free from my shop <a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/free-downloads/products/types-of-galaxies-poster">here</a>.</div>
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<span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://thelearningark.com/content/types-galaxies"><img alt="http://thelearningark.com/content/types-galaxies" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnR0PuEdHHS6hof1_8laPcp2xtiWYh6suC3Y6Vr9Tk8Rtza9B8RucLwu0ENPhnN58cYl5OovQkEtOLOfNjXpWTwcferUp2GnxRwwa94I5_GRJvkfZpUQnZ0Qw9hC_rVYtc2mvjCiybb3A/s320/galaxies+poster.JPG" width="223" /></a></span></div>
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Next we looked at different galaxies which have been discovered. I made these 3-part cards for ten different galaxies.</div>
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These can also be downloaded for free on my <a href="http://thelearningark.com/content/types-galaxies">site</a>. </div>
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(all photos were taken from Wikipedia)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvEWVOY30VSn13LWuX-WLlg7Kuay20xvzkVufYMHdX030AhPCP8yP2Q6KutXRFns27ZREh85-UGIAF87PrQftaGJGAeJ9vYZrHjXAIMj0_LoKv0C-KO9sCznJMhnv1ap47Q_JPAsoVzE/s1600/galaxies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUvEWVOY30VSn13LWuX-WLlg7Kuay20xvzkVufYMHdX030AhPCP8yP2Q6KutXRFns27ZREh85-UGIAF87PrQftaGJGAeJ9vYZrHjXAIMj0_LoKv0C-KO9sCznJMhnv1ap47Q_JPAsoVzE/s320/galaxies.JPG" width="233" /></a></div>
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Children were encouraged to pick a galaxy and research it further.</div>
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This book fit perfectly with this lesson.</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51eeRg5ZP2L._SX405_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51eeRg5ZP2L._SX405_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" height="320" width="260" /></a></div>
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Of course, the children were inspired by the pastel pictures and eagerly drew their own. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_c-L8Rx-JNzzERs4Tq7oySatnf_tTRzcs_-vQwlnLIf666WKxbnRt0Rx0IX2UgAzGxwAxh2o0kIc6z5QLtFrTUw18-FYtInhcaY5qyeThi1DoCShyphenhyphenQ4xyo7iU1mYPwdugNZP3WlpA95Q/s1600/glaxaies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_c-L8Rx-JNzzERs4Tq7oySatnf_tTRzcs_-vQwlnLIf666WKxbnRt0Rx0IX2UgAzGxwAxh2o0kIc6z5QLtFrTUw18-FYtInhcaY5qyeThi1DoCShyphenhyphenQ4xyo7iU1mYPwdugNZP3WlpA95Q/s320/glaxaies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is an old photo of Noah drawing spiral galaxies using pastels at the age of 9. As you can see he got right in and even smudged pastels on his face lol! Noah is now 11 years and he still enjoys this activity each time we tell the great lesson.</div>
N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-36215738389033732772015-10-25T19:34:00.001+00:002015-10-25T20:32:48.925+00:00Another GIVEAWAY!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.48px;">I am having another giveaway on my </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/thelearningark">The Learning Ark Materials Shop Facebook page</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.48px;"> and would like to invite you to join!</span></span></div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-90825787507128491362015-10-24T14:42:00.000+01:002016-06-19T10:13:52.855+01:00Great Lesson 1: Volcano Studies [Post 4]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After telling the first great lesson each year, the most loved follow up work is always the volcano activities. Here are some ideas I use in my class and my children enjoy.<br />
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<b>Volcano Experiment</b></div>
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Firstly, I always have two volcanoes on display. One is my grand big brilliant volcano which I use for lessons. The second is a much smaller one which children can use independently. The children are able to take out the smaller volcano anytime and follow the instructions to make it erupt. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0M3-T3XFwshhFhmb-vAw9gBRbxhhZe4QNw1adQzv9RffKvti7GTDAcbsHCg1KN9hvQgmjfTzdOHngLTsQbOWXe-OpyBp679m4xJUod-xvyaP_WNCCYWln_bhv7YtBQgl99HMVRwiA4U/s1600/volcanoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0M3-T3XFwshhFhmb-vAw9gBRbxhhZe4QNw1adQzv9RffKvti7GTDAcbsHCg1KN9hvQgmjfTzdOHngLTsQbOWXe-OpyBp679m4xJUod-xvyaP_WNCCYWln_bhv7YtBQgl99HMVRwiA4U/s320/volcanoes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The main volcano in the picture shows my large grand one. Just behind the white box you can see the top of a smaller volcano.</div>
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In the white tray I have a supply of vinegar and baking soda. The children use a spatula to fill the volcano with baking soda and a pipette to add the vinegar. This way they don't use to much of the ingredients at once. </div>
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As you can probably tell from the photos, these volcanoes are handmade. Both volcanoes have removable bottles which make them easy to clean. I used this youtube video, but did not follow the exact instruction.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/RzOoTPfcUBM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RzOoTPfcUBM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<a href="http://montessoribeginnings.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/volcanoes_22.html">Montessori Beginnings</a> has another good tutorial on how to <a href="http://montessoribeginnings.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/volcanoes_22.html">make a volcano</a>.</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Each of these volcanoes has a built in tray which holds the lava and mess from the eruption. This has been perfect for avoiding the terrible disasters I previously had when the volcanoes stands in a separate tray.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6i2_pOAVAzs-vNysh6Qe051r7hoVffsVPSPbEIAu7QWYZ4kZczALJIX14fxKlW6sTxG7p8GXr584-fiD4ln-Nz9li_EMhPNiFcVKQmTehiy56Yvy_NcVGGNoAq9bAES5mM24ftQGCbY/s1600/IMG_7546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6i2_pOAVAzs-vNysh6Qe051r7hoVffsVPSPbEIAu7QWYZ4kZczALJIX14fxKlW6sTxG7p8GXr584-fiD4ln-Nz9li_EMhPNiFcVKQmTehiy56Yvy_NcVGGNoAq9bAES5mM24ftQGCbY/s320/IMG_7546.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Parts of a Volcano</b></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">Alongside the volcanoes, children will work with the part of the volcano cards. I have a set available at my store, shown below and available </span><a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/earth-science/products/montessori-part-of-the-volcano">here</a><span style="text-align: center;">. </span><br />
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<a href="http://thelearningark.com/content/part-volacano"><img alt="http://thelearningark.com/content/part-volacano" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlejcHOn6VYiWXauXmBrPeN1XVdcnxxaH55OJwmLQxgvYz0hJfEm30bVB-sd_hl11PKrvzdLhiEX17VNnXMj-m-52viwMEEIv5qnVdY752MzxNLbla4xjxYyf3uVxAhxaanw9hgJSSjQ/s1600/volcano.png" title="Volcano Cards" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtElukaMhSRxlXhqBJMtz4agHzURsXi_S6wDxzEJ2Acm15rlPVMHrCVNl0B-1ORjTStXJ_4R_5yvxS2wfgP_SaG7dU_8GS_aYth7y0sVsLqMhYvtUOss8Z4vaf1FUnY6WQVf4p6FZWi90/s1600/volcano+booklet.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtElukaMhSRxlXhqBJMtz4agHzURsXi_S6wDxzEJ2Acm15rlPVMHrCVNl0B-1ORjTStXJ_4R_5yvxS2wfgP_SaG7dU_8GS_aYth7y0sVsLqMhYvtUOss8Z4vaf1FUnY6WQVf4p6FZWi90/s320/volcano+booklet.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Alongside the volcano cards, the children use the above printout to make their own volcano booklet. This is available for <a href="http://thelearningark.com/content/volcano-booklet">free here</a>. The picture of the volcano was taken from<a href="http://freecoloringpages.co.uk/?r=erupting+volcano"> Free Colouring Pages</a>.</div>
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Of course the volcanoes make appearances in various other lessons. Below, I was presenting a lesson on the use of a comma and a child decided that the volcano was the perfect prop to use.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwEDVPfDd0agl1mobcDQG3W0i1gtqzUv2AfNS99HvlTY1i8HMVQBb1Hd4k10KEWskNbfRE9lsXoXzsib6OoToxIda7vBMpWUlENn2zoR9xmOGFE8YYIQ_rgP1AkcYYt2DDqrwumvHZR3M/s1600/IMG_0295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwEDVPfDd0agl1mobcDQG3W0i1gtqzUv2AfNS99HvlTY1i8HMVQBb1Hd4k10KEWskNbfRE9lsXoXzsib6OoToxIda7vBMpWUlENn2zoR9xmOGFE8YYIQ_rgP1AkcYYt2DDqrwumvHZR3M/s320/IMG_0295.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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<b>Types of Volcanoes</b></div>
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I used this great chart to make three part cards for types of volcanoes. I am not sure who is the author of the chart so I can't share the cards. The chart is available<a href="http://go2add.com/images/Volcanoes/TypesOfVolcanos.jpg"> here</a><a href="http://here./">.</a> </div>
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<a href="http://go2add.com/images/Volcanoes/TypesOfVolcanos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://go2add.com/images/Volcanoes/TypesOfVolcanos.jpg" height="175" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Real Volcanoes</b></div>
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It is also great fun for the children to look at real volcanoes. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXhROHSWNTQ9FG2LsFsFnC7NPGoVeFbPDZyNGKQhwKlljxv2bvdklGYHXCD9OBZErKExJDmB4sL4fWZd6WJVZIDKL1POhriBlkEBEPW6GLT1t5T3umoXv8UxBEmKxdydL-P9K8Op4wLcz/s320/volcano+cards.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXhROHSWNTQ9FG2LsFsFnC7NPGoVeFbPDZyNGKQhwKlljxv2bvdklGYHXCD9OBZErKExJDmB4sL4fWZd6WJVZIDKL1POhriBlkEBEPW6GLT1t5T3umoXv8UxBEmKxdydL-P9K8Op4wLcz/s320/volcano+cards.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://thehelpfulgarden.blogspot.co.uk/2013/03/volcano-photo-cards-set-for-early.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed:+TheHelpfulGarden+(The+Helpful+Garden)&utm_content=Yahoo!+Mail">Helpful garden</a> has a free download for pictures of volcanoes. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Spt27HrYurs/UVMExJ48i6I/AAAAAAAAFig/H7HrzxZiUo8/Volcano23.jpg?imgmax=800" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Spt27HrYurs/UVMExJ48i6I/AAAAAAAAFig/H7HrzxZiUo8/Volcano23.jpg?imgmax=800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinayhomeschooler.com/2013/03/volcanoes-free-picture-cards.html">Pinay Homeschooler</a> has a free set of volcano cards from around the world. </div>
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<b>Volcano Research</b></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">For children who have a great interest in volcanoes, I encourage them to carry out research on an actual volcano. The below picture shows research guidelines which the children use as a basis of their research. Unfortunately, I can't remember where the pictures came from so I can't share this. Sorry!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0eU43iq_jXzJk0OcnnVcgzNOHJmu5avPZW0PqjbhM3D-F-tlFbthl06NUhuUOk4rMl9t94kLJCzyqjdU64mDZ5-6jyIhsWtaCEfzAtOWjmnfwu3CYfTJdh65mMjUE5enEkTd9toLhMtI/s1600/volcano+research.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0eU43iq_jXzJk0OcnnVcgzNOHJmu5avPZW0PqjbhM3D-F-tlFbthl06NUhuUOk4rMl9t94kLJCzyqjdU64mDZ5-6jyIhsWtaCEfzAtOWjmnfwu3CYfTJdh65mMjUE5enEkTd9toLhMtI/s320/volcano+research.png" width="213" /></a></div>
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<b>Make a Volcano Model</b></div>
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Of course, making a volcano is the ultimate volcano activity children love. Making a clay or papermache volcano is always nice but can get a bit messy. Here are some great paper volcanoes I found online.</div>
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<a href="http://i317.photobucket.com/albums/mm374/mauther/paper_model.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i317.photobucket.com/albums/mm374/mauther/paper_model.jpg" height="256" width="320" /></a></div>
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Volcano cross section from <a href="http://papermau.blogspot.com.br/2011/09/volcano-paper-model-by-think-questorg.html">Papermau</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://cp.c-ij.com/images/contents/CNT-0011593/CNT-0011593_detail-01_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cp.c-ij.com/images/contents/CNT-0011593/CNT-0011593_detail-01_s.jpg" /></a></div>
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Canon have a <a href="http://cp.c-ij.com/en/contents/CNT-0011593/index.html">print out for Mt. Fuji</a>. This model is beautiful!</div>
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<b>Map of Active Volcanoes</b></div>
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<a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b0/Map_plate_tectonics_world.gif/350px-Map_plate_tectonics_world.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b0/Map_plate_tectonics_world.gif/350px-Map_plate_tectonics_world.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another activity is to make a map of active volcanoes. I provide the children with a blank world map and some good books on volcanoes, as well as the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lists_of_volcanoes">above chart</a> (found on wikipedia). The children make their own charts and discuss where it may not be safe to live!</div>
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I am sure there are many more things which can be done about volcanoes. If you have anymore ideas please let me know.</div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-46110675306587958162015-10-18T11:46:00.000+01:002015-10-29T14:50:54.845+00:00Great Lesson 1: Experiments on laws of the universe [Post 3]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRnUTixhDr5seSGn2mDLSKmi2K0pnfmP3Hh3MPHt7nO9Kw0sVdr7_qOJzXyx7G1_jp8jBb1b9pOEtQlM73lSJ_L5BnA5c_sTwEN-9E6-JM5UKkmQEbIyLaXQ5TEcifH5aKiRGYcGPLNM/s1600/IMG_7574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRnUTixhDr5seSGn2mDLSKmi2K0pnfmP3Hh3MPHt7nO9Kw0sVdr7_qOJzXyx7G1_jp8jBb1b9pOEtQlM73lSJ_L5BnA5c_sTwEN-9E6-JM5UKkmQEbIyLaXQ5TEcifH5aKiRGYcGPLNM/s320/IMG_7574.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span id="goog_173114353"></span><span id="goog_173114354"></span>After telling the great lesson, I try to present the Laws of the Universe experiments daily. I only set up a few experiments on my shelves. For the rest, the child chooses a card, gathers the materials needed and carries out the experiment following the directions.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTkq6jT8W8qohyphenhyphenRvpOuSEx6bkAmt92Xip7HuSzB92x2nU2FoWTNPbhLpO4Fic8zZM50aUX9VMHNkI1F9jkGhhNqy12usnMh0ph9V4YlTwHqSWJecT1t0cDVSe_N-ICUJoSo-NNvdsAOk/s1600/IMG_7580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTkq6jT8W8qohyphenhyphenRvpOuSEx6bkAmt92Xip7HuSzB92x2nU2FoWTNPbhLpO4Fic8zZM50aUX9VMHNkI1F9jkGhhNqy12usnMh0ph9V4YlTwHqSWJecT1t0cDVSe_N-ICUJoSo-NNvdsAOk/s320/IMG_7580.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Experiments set up and ready to explore,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHe-LnU16hX8Ce-8d6gaSmDk37OJSyRloMoXFAffj_yEKu_7LrgrCUv0CMtjiOV15K_SHq9IACb2u-7t3J_-IKrCOaJf_0meHbSjVDSzCxjRFOKKY9ctLJSOekBTSVtXz08on9p9b3aI/s1600/IMG_7582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHe-LnU16hX8Ce-8d6gaSmDk37OJSyRloMoXFAffj_yEKu_7LrgrCUv0CMtjiOV15K_SHq9IACb2u-7t3J_-IKrCOaJf_0meHbSjVDSzCxjRFOKKY9ctLJSOekBTSVtXz08on9p9b3aI/s320/IMG_7582.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The blue drawers contain additional apparatus for other experiments. </div>
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I use Montessori R&D experiments for the younger children. A sample of their experiments can be found <a href="http://www.alisonsmontessori.com/v/manuals/ME.HI-2.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>. I printed each experiment and statement on an individual card. Unfortunately, I can not share them on here due to copyrights.<br />
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I used the experiments from Montessori for Everyone for my older children. They can be found <a href="http://www.montessoriforeveryone.com/Geography-Impressionistic-Chart-Set-6-9_p_314.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-30541149571722513282015-10-18T11:37:00.000+01:002016-10-09T12:57:08.071+01:00Great Lesson 1 : Follow Up Ideas [Post 2]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The Montessori great lessons inspire further study in many different directions. Each lesson should be told every year. This allows for the elementary child to hear every story at least 6 times. After each lesson the child is free to follow which ever topic interests him/her. Naturally, over the 6 years the child would have had the chance to explore all the topics which follow on from the great lessons.<br />
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The list on this post is specifically related to follow up work/topics related to the first great lesson. I do not expect children to cover these topics in one year. Instead, I anticipate the child showing interest in all areas over the six year span. My shelves are set up with activities for each topic in order to ensure that children can show an interest in which ever topic interests them.<br />
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Here is a look at the set up of my shelves. Due to space I do not have every single material on display.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkF8LNcywsLMDoNJUkN0g4vzWVtprHMxzWZy02BoxbvvwNp7iQCi4J3zcaixq3EZYOrxA5PfiVG0quX8LGisT09lVGsO2hfvUOs4cnpxqEEilMvooq9mZ14tNI4FeWtIaWpobUZYaRc0/s1600/IMG_7588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkF8LNcywsLMDoNJUkN0g4vzWVtprHMxzWZy02BoxbvvwNp7iQCi4J3zcaixq3EZYOrxA5PfiVG0quX8LGisT09lVGsO2hfvUOs4cnpxqEEilMvooq9mZ14tNI4FeWtIaWpobUZYaRc0/s320/IMG_7588.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Materials for study on volcanoes, galaxies, space, stars, moon, sun, earth, planets, rocks, geography impressionistic charts and science experiments to support first great lesson.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizciSNky8lqufyXPj8ffOx-Uyf2yuygyIhHFhVLqnvsTSkCiqAq64o1o7tBIQnvqenEP5GBJzzRay5A95NDFTTSB-DNgujGklrzwmG-nJNQaRpFGG8YE0VMFyG0r4fbqIq9Z-7p1N8-34/s1600/IMG_7593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizciSNky8lqufyXPj8ffOx-Uyf2yuygyIhHFhVLqnvsTSkCiqAq64o1o7tBIQnvqenEP5GBJzzRay5A95NDFTTSB-DNgujGklrzwmG-nJNQaRpFGG8YE0VMFyG0r4fbqIq9Z-7p1N8-34/s320/IMG_7593.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Materials for the study of atoms, molecules and elements.</div>
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I also have other materials on my geography shelf which is not pictured here. </div>
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Here is a list of topic ideas which I use when setting up my shelves. Each year more ideas are added. I am intending to expand on these topics in individual posts.</div>
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1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.my/2015/10/great-lesson-1-experiments-on-laws-of.html">Experiments on laws of the universe.</a><br />
2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.my/2015/10/great-lesson-1-volcano-studies.html">Volcanoes</a><br />
3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.my/2015/11/great-lesson-1-solar-system-6.html">Planets and solar system</a><br />
4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.my/2015/10/great-lesson-1-types-of-galaxies.html">Galaxies types</a><br />
5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Moon phases<br />
6.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Parts of the sun<br />
7.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Earth<br />
8.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Stars<br />
9.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>States of matter<br />
10.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Gravity experiments<br />
11.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> E</span>lements<br />
12.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Molecules<br />
13. Rocks<br />
14.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> Geography i</span>mpressionistic charts</div>
N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-19714806655868480832015-10-18T10:56:00.002+01:002016-06-19T10:21:36.054+01:00Free Downloads Updated<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have updated my download page and fixed any broken links.<br />
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Please find the latest verion of my downloads here. I will continue adding to this list as I post new material. Please let me know if a link is not working or if there is an error on a file. Feel free to download and use these files but link back to my blog when you share them. Do not copy or sell these files.</div>
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Language</div>
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/free-downloads/products/traceable-dotted-alphabet-cards">Dotted alphabet for tracing</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/free-downloads/products/capital-letters-and-lower-case-matching-cards">Capital and lower case letter matching</a> - <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2010/12/100-followers-and-literacy-download.html">post</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/free-downloads/products/phonetic-alphabet-matching-picture-cards">Beginning Letter Matching Cards</a></div>
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Mathematics</div>
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<a href="http://www.box.net/shared/h9xks8hrl8">Practice with ten beads</a> - <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2008/11/practice-with-tens-beads.html">Post</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/mathematics/products/checkerboard-label-cards">Checkerboard Cards</a> - <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/introduction-to-checkerboard-lesson.html">Post</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/mathematics/products/make-a-clock-with-minutes-numerals">Make A Clock</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/mathematics/products/telling-the-time-clock-cards-set-1">O'clock Three Part Cards</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/mathematics/products/large-and-small-number-cards">Large and Small Number Cards</a></div>
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Geometry</div>
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/geometry/products/congruent-similar-and-equivalent">Congruent Similar and <u>Equivalent</u></a> - <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2010/07/congruent-similar-and-equivalent.html">Post</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/geometry/products/triangle-cards">Triangle Cards</a> - <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2009/11/triangles.html">Post</a></div>
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Science</div>
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/cosmic/products/organ-card">Organ Cards</a> - <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2009/06/bit-of-biology.html">post</a><br />
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<a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2009/06/bit-of-biology.html"></a><a href="http://www.box.net/shared/lxjcvtnz2v">Animal Question Cards</a> - <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2010/08/animal-kingdom-questions.html">Post</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/cosmic/products/sun-game">Sun Game</a> - <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2008/11/sun-game.html">Post</a></div>
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Geography</div>
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/cosmic/products/land-water-and-air">Land Water and Air Cards </a>- <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2010/10/land-water-and-air.html">Post</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/cosmic/products/land-water-and-air-animals-and-transport">Animals and transport for Land Water and Air</a> - <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2010/11/land-water-and-air-animals-and.html">Post</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/cosmic/products/compass-rose">Compass Rose </a>- <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2010/07/compass-rose.html">Post</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.box.net/shared/6tb63px6sn">Country, City and Flag Sheet</a> - <a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.com/2009/11/countries-capital-cities-and-flags.html">Post</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/cosmic/products/months-of-the-year">Months of the Year </a></div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-393248813434583872015-10-03T19:50:00.000+01:002015-10-29T14:50:17.768+00:00Great Lessons Round Up Intro [Post 1]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each year, I search the internet for inspiration for new activities to follow on from the Great Lessons. There are so many great ideas out there. But I have not yet come across a Great Lesson round up post. So my task for this year is to gather all the inspirations I have come across in the blog world for each Great Lessons. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For those of you who are not familiar with the Great Lessons, Montessori designed these as the foundation of the Montessori elementary curriculum. They form the backbone of Montessori elementary education and are often the starting point for all other learning. The Great Lessons are designed to meet the sensitive periods of the elementary child and provide the child with the context of the place of man in the universe. Through introducing these lessons, all aspects of the cosmic curriculum are covered. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The five [maybe 6] Great Lessons are:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. The Creation of the Universe</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. The Coming of Life</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. The Coming of Man</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. The Story of Writing</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. The Story of Numerals</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">[6. The Great River]</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some Montessorians present these lessons every six weeks, providing time for follow up work before moving onto a different lesson. Others present all the lessons in the first few weeks and spend the rest of the year doing follow up lessons. I have only presented these in the first way and have found that this was helpful for my class.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each time I present a great lesson, I set up a specific shelf for follow up activities and scatter various other activities across the class in each curriculum area. This creates an atmosphere of the great lesson and really engages children.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am a strong believer that these great lessons should be kept for the elementary child and not introduced too early. The elementary child presents us with different needs which make these lessons suitable. Whereas the younger child has different needs and sensitivities and so these lessons are not ideal. I believe there are so many more relevant things a child who is under six can do before approaching these lessons.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I run the same lessons every year for my entire elementary class. This means that my 12 year old children would have heard this lesson 6 times in their elementary years. Each year I add a few more details and tell the lesson slightly differently. I also encourage my 11 and 12 year olds to join in telling the stories or presenting follow up activities. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My favorite Montessori quotes on cosmic education and the elementary child:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #59563b; line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Since it has been seen to be necessary to give so much to the child, let us give him a vision of the whole universe. The universe is an imposing reality, and an answer to all questions." </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #59563b; line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(To Educate the Human Potential, p. 5)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #59563b; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"If the idea of the universe be presented to the child in the right way, it will do more for him than just arouse his interest, for it will create in him admiration and wonder, a feeling loftier than any interest and more satisfying. The child’s mind will then no longer wander, but becomes fixed and can work. The knowledge he acquires is organized and systematic; his intelligence becomes whole and complete because of the vision of the whole that has been presented to him, and his interest spreads to all, for all are linked and have their place in the universe on which his mind is centred." </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #59563b; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(To Educate the Human Potential, p. 6)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #59563b; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"No matter what we touch, an atom, or a cell, we cannot explain it without knowledge of the wide universe. What better answer can be given to those seekers for knowledge? It becomes doubtful whether even the universe will suffice. How did it come into being? How will it end? A greater curiosity arises, which can never be satiated; so will last through a lifetime. The laws governing the universe can be made interesting and wonderful to the child, more interesting even than things in themselves, and he begins to ask: What am I? What is the task of man in this wonderful universe? Do we merely live here for ourselves, or is there something more for us to do? Why do we struggle and fight? What is good and evil? Where will it all end?" (To Educate the Human Potential, p. 6)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you would like to know more about the great lessons I suggest reading the following:</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.montessori-ami.org/congress/2005sydney/papermh.htm" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">AMI article on Cosmic Education</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0939195313?keywords=montessori%20duffy&qid=1443897718&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/5127HN3HG1L._SY498_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></span></a></div>
N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-4478134094918960012015-10-03T15:17:00.000+01:002015-10-03T15:17:55.788+01:00The Learning Ark Materials Shop GIVEAWAY!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I am having a giveaway on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thelearningark?notif_t=page_fan" target="_blank">The Learning Ark Materials Shop Facebook page</a> and would like to invite you to join!<br />
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Hop over to my <a href="http://www.thelearningark.com/" target="_blank">online shop</a> and see if you fancy any files.<br />
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Then enter this giveaway for your chance to download any 3 files for free.<br />
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To enter...like my Facebook page and share it on your timeline. Then leave a comment here or on the Facebook page. Make sure you are following this blog and my Facebook page so you can see when I announce the winner.<br />
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Winner will be randomly selected on the 10th of October.</div>
N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-80995116292889051982015-08-04T23:33:00.000+01:002015-08-04T23:33:42.111+01:00Upper Elementary - Advanced Montessori Grammar Symbol Charts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I have just returned from my upper elementary training where I got to see some of the most complex and beautiful advanced grammar and mathematics lessons. I have about a month until schools starts back and now I have a long list of upper elementary materials to make for my class. I am super excited to show Noah [who is now 11 years btw] the new activities and he is itching to get his hands on them as he patiently watches me make them.<br />
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The first material on my list....<br />
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Advanced Montessori Grammar Symbol Charts<br />
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<a href="http://thelearningark.com/content/advanced-grammar-symbols-chart-and-cards" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirEc2IPzE0AcTQH6dTq-EhkBhyphenhyphen3re8svdLF4XDu5tWyAw2j3ya38xhqQTITRs7JyRvvn2Kcoss4awBYBondao28yHMlNp9yZ_eIRQCvk6GqQhgf9iRKgGAKcVYgBVwmkKB-btkyBWbmkQ/s320/advanced+grammar+symbols.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I finally got to see the complete presentations and understand what each symbol represents. The charts contain the 9 regular symbols plus additional symbols for abstract nouns, proper nouns, auxiliary verb, intransitive verb, copula, infinitive, participle and gerund. The reasoning and thought behind each symbol emphasizes the greatness of the Montessori grammar curriculum.</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">I have added these charts to my shop <a href="http://thelearningark.com/content/advanced-grammar-symbols-chart-and-cards" target="_blank">here</a> just in case anyone else is in need of one for their classroom.</span></div>
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Next I will be making the personal pronoun lessons...<br />
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-9021522370610286022015-04-09T17:30:00.001+01:002016-06-19T10:23:07.539+01:00Carbon Cycle Activities<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Recently we have been working on activities to promote sustainable living. As part of this study the children calculated their carbon footprint. In order to fully understand the weight of their carbon footprint I created this <a href="http://thelearningark.com/content/carbon-cycle-chart-and-cards" target="_blank">carbon cycle chart</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY_QZaLoZMFjtokDg3VnQInvY_68StOuynO3FJzXavtWwZ-UOL56KoiWwebnviT52tbQAhxkeyj867cU_8DhfCHeN4OLkPJTZJjnL0W3xLCq3lr-wAMM6HwQRxG5kzp3k-kcraH_XTy4/s1600/IMG_6351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY_QZaLoZMFjtokDg3VnQInvY_68StOuynO3FJzXavtWwZ-UOL56KoiWwebnviT52tbQAhxkeyj867cU_8DhfCHeN4OLkPJTZJjnL0W3xLCq3lr-wAMM6HwQRxG5kzp3k-kcraH_XTy4/s1600/IMG_6351.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The chart contains movable cards for each part of the carbon cycle. On the back is a description of that card and it's process.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTOP2pZQRAx6SNyjKM1rDNjOjgOx_BBSz4D0xBKTNVM3bEOTUIv-QMDNpSCEzw2caC3upwMlL_qjFvFJdAu9fBH0P8Vr8ZfH8k51LW6C8wjtjq4ic2YVztBPrzClAy4Nj9tsDkiuCVPQ/s1600/IMG_6355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnTOP2pZQRAx6SNyjKM1rDNjOjgOx_BBSz4D0xBKTNVM3bEOTUIv-QMDNpSCEzw2caC3upwMlL_qjFvFJdAu9fBH0P8Vr8ZfH8k51LW6C8wjtjq4ic2YVztBPrzClAy4Nj9tsDkiuCVPQ/s1600/IMG_6355.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Once we laid out all the cards and I finished my presentation, the children were silent and their faces displayed the shock of realisation that their actions are destroying the earth. One child immediately pointed out that more carbon is being released into the atmosphere then is taken away. We discussed the side effects of excessive carbon in the atmosphere. The children left the lesson insisting that they must do something to improve the situation.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXPdcFJz57H-j6uEC_5S1xWihCZjlvtdPNCaXnskc_q2tamKXakQ0N-0zd-pyVVEj9DgtS7umDtJ0m8NnTNKA9jDbZgWM125rzhzQ31mJsvFq2XRk_iR6_4dyHXaI-tRRVJXlPkme32k/s1600/IMG_6356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXPdcFJz57H-j6uEC_5S1xWihCZjlvtdPNCaXnskc_q2tamKXakQ0N-0zd-pyVVEj9DgtS7umDtJ0m8NnTNKA9jDbZgWM125rzhzQ31mJsvFq2XRk_iR6_4dyHXaI-tRRVJXlPkme32k/s1600/IMG_6356.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The carbon footprint worksheet was a great follow up. Each child filled out a form and all were disgusted by their results. I am sure they each went home and began thinking about switching off the lights and reusing plastic bottles.</div>
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You can buy the <a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/earth-science/products/carbon-cycle-chart-and-cards">carbon cycle chart and cards from here.</a></div>
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You can download the free <a href="https://app.box.com/s/wevsenohxcv65zsfnmxfeklba2cnu41z" target="_blank">carbon footprint worksheet</a> <a href="https://app.box.com/s/wevsenohxcv65zsfnmxfeklba2cnu41z" target="_blank">from here</a>.</div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-48800270098028696622014-08-18T23:32:00.001+01:002014-08-19T20:48:32.123+01:00Infinity Street<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Not long ago I was introduced to a brilliant counting activity which has been invented for Montessori classrooms; Infinity Street. This activity is designed to give children the opportunity to practice reading and making numbers beyond a trillion. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_xCcKTdLozH1zx6CsA1rbZrEmcQ-XACPz_yx0qO9CaX8MYQ3Jg64kjbyO-kmPh7F6pQcvi50aQge6WaDMtY23ZC2qlwJTAcah3nw78IwHVUqj5lILurMjFhfzMAwhNwF8Tx2oGaS5HA/s1600/IMG_3834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_xCcKTdLozH1zx6CsA1rbZrEmcQ-XACPz_yx0qO9CaX8MYQ3Jg64kjbyO-kmPh7F6pQcvi50aQge6WaDMtY23ZC2qlwJTAcah3nw78IwHVUqj5lILurMjFhfzMAwhNwF8Tx2oGaS5HA/s1600/IMG_3834.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Each number family is represented in a house on infinity street. In each house lives the units, tens and hundreds. The houses increase with size as the numbers get larger.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXStDqPPbHrw-jCZHN96MBvjUYBdyuWHru5Nd1S5kmuIlKFNHAHTm_oi66aw7VdscoDnRkvXa41IrMGD8oBZWmnGe25YH-UT7CLdPL93nBobhnN4DBnxqhg9l7CTtZC2kC_fvJQBna95M/s1600/IMG_3837.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXStDqPPbHrw-jCZHN96MBvjUYBdyuWHru5Nd1S5kmuIlKFNHAHTm_oi66aw7VdscoDnRkvXa41IrMGD8oBZWmnGe25YH-UT7CLdPL93nBobhnN4DBnxqhg9l7CTtZC2kC_fvJQBna95M/s1600/IMG_3837.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The number families represented on this street are, units, thousands, millions, billions, trillions, quadrillions, quintillion, and sextillions. Of course the houses can go on and the numbers can increase but I found that this was sufficient for the children. Each number family name was written on a card which also contained a comma.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE66tfrQXDarUrPclIDVjrZgaaJGHQTggRBtxOaE2w7h3IYK1-I4WREDu6RG4IvadMYfhhz1BNXqZtPn5g2iS3yqJsvIprc9wzki8vGEV68nXAOX-jGd4LYEiEIH7u4lroQITkn6-f9eM/s1600/IMG_3296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE66tfrQXDarUrPclIDVjrZgaaJGHQTggRBtxOaE2w7h3IYK1-I4WREDu6RG4IvadMYfhhz1BNXqZtPn5g2iS3yqJsvIprc9wzki8vGEV68nXAOX-jGd4LYEiEIH7u4lroQITkn6-f9eM/s1600/IMG_3296.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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This activity is very easy to make. It took me about 40mins to cut all the houses in yellow foam and the colour strips in red, blue and green. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMhGxEYdKPxTtyGLvUGi-aOe2dnuLX51IMKXueAHB1TFNQEOlJ0JqhTTtlF4YGAMF1LIdWG_zCQ2Zo92NfDyEzWEVs3ST0TCU6vxXUX5M6xzLfGfnkZd3SQYS_ZAPfQxel7SMKiHOk3M/s1600/IMG_0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMhGxEYdKPxTtyGLvUGi-aOe2dnuLX51IMKXueAHB1TFNQEOlJ0JqhTTtlF4YGAMF1LIdWG_zCQ2Zo92NfDyEzWEVs3ST0TCU6vxXUX5M6xzLfGfnkZd3SQYS_ZAPfQxel7SMKiHOk3M/s1600/IMG_0026.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is the activity in use by some children in the lower elementary classroom. The coloured strips are actually made for the beads to fit. After the child lays out all the houses, they select beads at random or to make a chosen number. Once the beads have been placed in each house, the child practices reading the number using the cards to help. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU8piRmfiC7cLsWbGwCgXxdvP7WRGyVZu6cESRJF1KAxkHb3e-hDwEmKtPs3d_4THp81UurgjZGUx1qS0n-goDp1gh1IL2OQbKl77MvztgJRLynR64LY2loY6jO2BFKV_DM8vnx92PjI0/s1600/IMG_0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU8piRmfiC7cLsWbGwCgXxdvP7WRGyVZu6cESRJF1KAxkHb3e-hDwEmKtPs3d_4THp81UurgjZGUx1qS0n-goDp1gh1IL2OQbKl77MvztgJRLynR64LY2loY6jO2BFKV_DM8vnx92PjI0/s1600/IMG_0029.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></div>
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In this particular photo the child made the number 111,659,232,875,768,888,111,466. To read the number the child said; one hundred and eleven sextillions, six hundred and fifty nine quintillions, two hundred and thirty two quadrillions, eight hundred and seventy five trillions, seven hundred and sixty eight billions, eight hundred and eighty eight millions, one hundred and eleven thousands, four hundred and sixty six. </div>
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It is truly amazing that a child of 6 or 7 can read numbers so large with accuracy :)</div>
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As will all other Montessori materials, the child will gradually work away from using this activity to being able to read the numbers in complete abstractions. </div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-56894245251695229022014-04-26T21:01:00.000+01:002016-06-19T10:30:49.809+01:00Introduction To The Checkerboard Lesson<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The checkerboard is one of my favourite pieces of Montessori materials. 5 years ago I blogged about this homemade checker board which I made from <u><a href="http://thelearningark.blogspot.co.uk/2009/03/its-achecker-board.html" target="_blank">felt</a></u>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxYmzOYfUJx41gfK7eg5pWmLEEXMte8QNJcV1zbfDT4jJU9cQx6oUwq578YL3AhXVzsDZRQBrXc2bXlB0jd8V06Agg6ZABd_2KQjct7s3s3QaAVgwbtlxLbwUD5hYHbAn0n-o44Uof60/s320/March+09+044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxYmzOYfUJx41gfK7eg5pWmLEEXMte8QNJcV1zbfDT4jJU9cQx6oUwq578YL3AhXVzsDZRQBrXc2bXlB0jd8V06Agg6ZABd_2KQjct7s3s3QaAVgwbtlxLbwUD5hYHbAn0n-o44Uof60/s320/March+09+044.JPG" /></a></div>
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I have had great success introducing the checkerboard to my students. However, I have noticed that some students do find it difficult to understand the place value of each square on the checkerboard. I was recently introduced to this preliminary exercise which I have now started using in my elementary class. This lesson is great and has been very popular :). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhODswAG0WW8Ystc-098GAFFf3j1cJG22acyCRXB_OPf-daqP69qAOiDK69jDvdIEBbS4xFal6bxPEiuotwxL3LQtsez0eq27lA_9zV-Y6asFoAavTKM8W96IJzic-RI-4S1BtQpJlxFJg/w460-h345-no/IMG_4269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhODswAG0WW8Ystc-098GAFFf3j1cJG22acyCRXB_OPf-daqP69qAOiDK69jDvdIEBbS4xFal6bxPEiuotwxL3LQtsez0eq27lA_9zV-Y6asFoAavTKM8W96IJzic-RI-4S1BtQpJlxFJg/w460-h345-no/IMG_4269.JPG" height="240" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is very easy to make this activity. Each of the squares is cut out from felt. They measure 4cmx4cm. You need 10 green, 9 blue and 9 red. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlqlPs6UfSm7Cczpxt2T7cRPC0hqqapXgXJ7iwutuwEzu-2jD-pcBN22sYqLCpSXdb-_0XAPZeliQcQDV4SAC3p7DgYZB1HpfigH75pEHaVz0qnqcIPff59vKPunkNSSQjI3uv201s8E/s1600/checkerboard.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFlqlPs6UfSm7Cczpxt2T7cRPC0hqqapXgXJ7iwutuwEzu-2jD-pcBN22sYqLCpSXdb-_0XAPZeliQcQDV4SAC3p7DgYZB1HpfigH75pEHaVz0qnqcIPff59vKPunkNSSQjI3uv201s8E/s1600/checkerboard.PNG" width="242" /></a></div>
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I then made label cards for each square. <span style="text-align: center;">I have uploaded the file</span> <a href="https://www.thelearningark.com/collections/mathematics/products/checkerboard-label-cards">here</a> to share with you all for free. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87AXHeTB9aLvL5FkZO-NufRRKY9Mcrmni7-Ft4sVHYByUSAuU4Tdk1Nwi9HLYQxRecBVi6znL1BKevQ6IneGwXHarfHo69uiQ6M713U2DStI34UScrtVJhZ-kihW3TazHPtSLIONQQaU/s1600/checkerboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87AXHeTB9aLvL5FkZO-NufRRKY9Mcrmni7-Ft4sVHYByUSAuU4Tdk1Nwi9HLYQxRecBVi6znL1BKevQ6IneGwXHarfHo69uiQ6M713U2DStI34UScrtVJhZ-kihW3TazHPtSLIONQQaU/s1600/checkerboard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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When presenting this lesson you start with the unit row [bottom row]. You place the green square at the bottom right of your mat and label it. To the left of this you place the blue square, name as 'tens' and label. You continue placing the squares for this row until you have reached 1 million. Next you start on the tens rows by placing the ten square on the second row above the units and continue placing the squares and labeling until you reach ten million. The hundreds and thousands rows are built in the same way.</div>
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A fun extension to this lesson is to play a card game. 2-3 children can randomly select a pile of cards. Each child then has to place the labels on the correct square. The winner is the child who first places all the labels correct!</div>
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Let me know if you make and try this lesson. I'd love to know how it works for others. </div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-56853287886806737002014-03-10T20:06:00.000+00:002014-03-10T20:06:08.244+00:00Sentence Analysis - Post 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dwArqqXr7qYjjXZG3msO3P9UVM0G8QJVaI2W4Sf7IcHberZxb6DstcHC7vpd-Hh71PI4oWgxvirjUTGSDto_quAL0SOGYP8i2ySPWBVnawcC3jjcvklSEFcHRbsOkPpkfcqhaVWYreg/s1600/IMG_3521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dwArqqXr7qYjjXZG3msO3P9UVM0G8QJVaI2W4Sf7IcHberZxb6DstcHC7vpd-Hh71PI4oWgxvirjUTGSDto_quAL0SOGYP8i2ySPWBVnawcC3jjcvklSEFcHRbsOkPpkfcqhaVWYreg/s1600/IMG_3521.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Little-N has recently become obsessed with the Sentence Analysis work. In this activity the child analyses sentences using a series of charts and symbols. In the picture above, the sentence contained a verb, subject and direct object. I downloaded this chart for free from <a href="http://www.freemontessori.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Grammar-Chart-A-1.pdf">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5o6nCX4G8YGw_ftPoYKfeNmGWzTyq4i4NuQT5hnKHOPn0go3kLCf5in5B6T1MGCZhiUR98Y0b-nNzWRikDTpoH4GeIUWx2Z768qX22Lh5z6pNSCK3q0FofQPwHKNpWH3MfKvxg1vHvrA/s1600/SA+chart.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5o6nCX4G8YGw_ftPoYKfeNmGWzTyq4i4NuQT5hnKHOPn0go3kLCf5in5B6T1MGCZhiUR98Y0b-nNzWRikDTpoH4GeIUWx2Z768qX22Lh5z6pNSCK3q0FofQPwHKNpWH3MfKvxg1vHvrA/s1600/SA+chart.PNG" height="116" width="320" /></a></div>
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Sentence Analysis is a long and detailed study, which I usually begin with the child once they have studied all parts of speech [and know the grammar symbols]. The above chart is the simplest form. The child will progress to analyse sentences which contain conjunctions, adjectives, adverbs and more. Below is a picture of the complete set of materials. However, some training colleges may use different charts.</div>
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I decided to purchase the PDF set of materials from <a href="http://www.shop.montessoriprintshop.com/Simple-Sentences-Analysis-Set-and-Instructions-GF-18.htm">here</a>. The file provides print out symbols and charts. Also included are step by step directions for presenting the materials. <a href="http://georgefamilymontessoriathome.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/montessori-sentence-analysis-1.html">This</a> homeschooling blog has a great post about Sentence Analysis. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRZNdPNEcTrM_0rsyyYvYY40eTbAekOq0jVeyXjaXDc1l4cWLArVzMtIhGzCPMWK9eU9CuPclKiPHzPpHS7cxnyGEh3FoTLMVMiuvztpj1_VHJ43av-EouMApQf9jLrQ1QYI1WW6rUpds/s1600/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRZNdPNEcTrM_0rsyyYvYY40eTbAekOq0jVeyXjaXDc1l4cWLArVzMtIhGzCPMWK9eU9CuPclKiPHzPpHS7cxnyGEh3FoTLMVMiuvztpj1_VHJ43av-EouMApQf9jLrQ1QYI1WW6rUpds/s1600/Capture.PNG" height="135" width="320" /></a></div>
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Above [sorry for the bad quality] Little-N is working on another Sentence Analysis lesson at home. He enjoyed it so much he wanted to do another lesson this evening! In the above photo, Little-N is analysing a sentence which contains to verbs and one subject. </div>
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I'll post again soon with the next Sentence Analysis lesson we do.</div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-37443018498007696522014-02-17T20:57:00.000+00:002014-02-17T20:57:23.500+00:00Montessori Hierarchy Of Number Material<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAY8ITD7QK3QsZarcRaGNypj3LhMSWJqvHb2Sxnx6GjxdhzRnmwCg9wu4cP07mAc52R1oFEW97o-a3jbATzGsWb0zvLuUfi5QktxucQYsiXEJCzCnq8wlN0QrTvED3wpAfRSR67_-nTs/s1600/IMG_3613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAY8ITD7QK3QsZarcRaGNypj3LhMSWJqvHb2Sxnx6GjxdhzRnmwCg9wu4cP07mAc52R1oFEW97o-a3jbATzGsWb0zvLuUfi5QktxucQYsiXEJCzCnq8wlN0QrTvED3wpAfRSR67_-nTs/s1600/IMG_3613.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a>'</div>
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I recently got this wonderful material made for my class. This material provides children with a concrete representation of the quantities of numbers 1 through to 1,000,000. The familiarity of the colour coding and material, really supports each child to develop an understanding of the sizes of the large numbers compared to units.</div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">I used a large 50cm x 50cm x 50cm card board box for my million cube. We spray painted in it green. A grandfather of one of my students made the other pieces in wood. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4UQl2thEcNWQC0xALKF30UD1PB8UAO2xHNu3c9gnu0qbmQVGLHXFxkXuk3a46WGWSPgl-iKmZV7OTpCC04tXr85mWYvuuQG2dzi8yyWfydOTa_OYoF0M8pgZ7Twb6qBqHnHlitn4VUU/s1600/IMG_3617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4UQl2thEcNWQC0xALKF30UD1PB8UAO2xHNu3c9gnu0qbmQVGLHXFxkXuk3a46WGWSPgl-iKmZV7OTpCC04tXr85mWYvuuQG2dzi8yyWfydOTa_OYoF0M8pgZ7Twb6qBqHnHlitn4VUU/s1600/IMG_3617.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here the million, thousand and unit cubes are stacked for comparison.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgedDxPvzd4jjPSJRrAHSCYFVgC6LL5x2tKSbsSL4htwNvTSv8MxKyUCnmCC7B1vgTFTNygnqWr_WkOlh9UEs4IEFleJZdjxFqPjwkI_7sX2KcI58GOPAatnqWfRn5ALRPNHV7v95wFz_4/s1600/IMG_3616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgedDxPvzd4jjPSJRrAHSCYFVgC6LL5x2tKSbsSL4htwNvTSv8MxKyUCnmCC7B1vgTFTNygnqWr_WkOlh9UEs4IEFleJZdjxFqPjwkI_7sX2KcI58GOPAatnqWfRn5ALRPNHV7v95wFz_4/s1600/IMG_3616.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Here the hundred and hundred thousand squares are stacked.</div>
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My class had a lot of fun comparing the pieces and labelling with numerals. Next week I will be presenting another lesson which follows on from this and helps the children develop an understanding of numbers over a million.</div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-53941083558510231702013-12-14T12:35:00.003+00:002013-12-14T12:35:58.459+00:00Cursive Writing Set<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This year I made a set of cursive handwriting activities for my elementary class. So far the children have only been working with the Sassoon Montessori font and regular print. However, after much discussion in my college, I have decided that writing in cursive is much better for my class. Since my children are all elementary aged [6-11yrs] and I do not have to give them much instruction, I have set up these activities so that the children can naturally progress without much support from me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg48KRHCG10iv7Q9GggmEJp4bfLNSowFZgCi4OC9YaYjTiG9ODhlq50BME_a2zeca3yUnDFGQ2QYQKPYcJK_rEZEJD8AVGXOjmfnV7NLkAjsLIfVw7vC4P9jHIaS5ZBT6epue__ee50P40/s1600/IMG_3056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg48KRHCG10iv7Q9GggmEJp4bfLNSowFZgCi4OC9YaYjTiG9ODhlq50BME_a2zeca3yUnDFGQ2QYQKPYcJK_rEZEJD8AVGXOjmfnV7NLkAjsLIfVw7vC4P9jHIaS5ZBT6epue__ee50P40/s320/IMG_3056.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This photo shows all the materials in the set. In the top left are the control cards which show the correct placements and formation for all lower case and capital letters. Below this are a few practice handwriting sheets that I downloaded from <a href="http://practicalpages.wordpress.com/handwriting-pages/cursive-handwriting/">here</a>. These sheets focus on individual letters. These are the sheets the children start off with. Everything else is handwritten. I felt it was important for the children to see real writing instead of perfect printed text. In the top middle are a few lists of words which the children can copy out once they have practiced with all the letter sheets. In the top right are cards which contain phrases written on cursive paper. The children can choose a card and copy it into their cursive handwriting book [bottom of pic]. The final cards are phrases written in pen on plain paper. The children are shown how to place the line guides behind their plain paper and copy a phrase or choose their own phrase.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgouHbylaiacboPf18cuz2_n4M9nf7yvqVGFcXvxNCAqFXt_MMuUsEz7kjq7v1SQHGlKit7rfVX425jJDznDqj9mnqLiEwLdPBwCM0KPD0WlS_GhKe_FhIkfYm1NjWjPsYn1TUuucEJuCY/s1600/IMG_3057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgouHbylaiacboPf18cuz2_n4M9nf7yvqVGFcXvxNCAqFXt_MMuUsEz7kjq7v1SQHGlKit7rfVX425jJDznDqj9mnqLiEwLdPBwCM0KPD0WlS_GhKe_FhIkfYm1NjWjPsYn1TUuucEJuCY/s320/IMG_3057.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cursive writing control cards made using a download from <a href="http://practicalpages.wordpress.com/handwriting-pages/cursive-handwriting/">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRK73wFt3spZ6KQ2KX9zS_IPc2arg9_uuVGoq_iHe6D5fs0Qszq4F42_HNZyGyk4uc8MeMmoT8nW1gEVfJlNotViE7ph-4ekrEFnKVMhEKLzvNszZ_J3OQ1sYvy59MFVga8omrzkodEms/s1600/IMG_3061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRK73wFt3spZ6KQ2KX9zS_IPc2arg9_uuVGoq_iHe6D5fs0Qszq4F42_HNZyGyk4uc8MeMmoT8nW1gEVfJlNotViE7ph-4ekrEFnKVMhEKLzvNszZ_J3OQ1sYvy59MFVga8omrzkodEms/s320/IMG_3061.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This is an example of a saying I wrote using a pen on plain paper. I have never before written in cursive and was surprised that it looks so lovely. Making the handwritten materials took a very long time but it has paid off. The children are so eager and excited to work through all the materials. Even the children who showed not interest in handwriting are now spending long periods of time practicing. In fact, last week I had two boys who worked on their cursive handwriting for almost the whole workcycle.</div>
N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-81357854247087989372013-12-01T18:50:00.000+00:002013-12-01T18:50:22.913+00:00Homophones, Homonyms and Homographs<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaw7s0HSrC1WMiUstIbnF7XGNlS2Yj5b_TnQd3jsNYf2wuC9z3dEcr2cD6ChiPF-gAaG19TJLRPRQjilCJY2NxIEzc5fMXNX_-FTHquC1oh7sUwQuGtI2q4l9ZJVkNe9PcS_GqgwCGkYA/s1600/IMG_3017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaw7s0HSrC1WMiUstIbnF7XGNlS2Yj5b_TnQd3jsNYf2wuC9z3dEcr2cD6ChiPF-gAaG19TJLRPRQjilCJY2NxIEzc5fMXNX_-FTHquC1oh7sUwQuGtI2q4l9ZJVkNe9PcS_GqgwCGkYA/s320/IMG_3017.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Little-N has been working with homophones, homonyms and homographs. I introduced each group of words using concrete materials. For the initial homonyms presentation, I used a model of a dog [for the word bark], Bonsai [bark of a tree], a small tennis bat, a model of a black bat [animal], a bell [for ring], and an amethyst ring. Although the elementary child is older, they still find great pleasure and excitement in lessons that use concrete materials. Each objects was placed on the mat and labelled appropriately. The children then guessed what the lesson was about. After defining 'homonyms' the children spent time thinking of their own examples. I also encourage the children to use the dictionary to find new ones.<br />
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As follow up work, I have many drawers filled with word pairs which can be matched. Each word card has a definition which the children read and match. Since Little-N is 9 years he is ready for a more advanced look at homonyms. For him, I prepared sentences which contain homonyms. His job is to find the matching sentences and then symbolise the homonym using the grammar symbols.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwa8qRKaosfkSVfG0iP46dzw1jxy9YovhoE-imlI6kPO6re7wvMPpmbdnI2DrfOVjzJWjHFkljIZh3VJuodK-RrPGPHkuWEMYyKVV3EmTQPHGwYM3KBhzRoc3SfDG3nj4vp7t_3kD34uI/s1600/IMG_3016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwa8qRKaosfkSVfG0iP46dzw1jxy9YovhoE-imlI6kPO6re7wvMPpmbdnI2DrfOVjzJWjHFkljIZh3VJuodK-RrPGPHkuWEMYyKVV3EmTQPHGwYM3KBhzRoc3SfDG3nj4vp7t_3kD34uI/s320/IMG_3016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Little-Ns next step is to write a poem or story full of homonyms.<br />
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P.s. As you can see Little-Ns hair is very long. He won't let me cut it. He is getting mistaken for a girl 80% of the time now, yet he doesn't seem to care!</div>
N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-9621659534520264102013-11-19T19:33:00.000+00:002013-11-19T19:33:37.978+00:0018 Months Later...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8fPjnpJKaKd5rDnOhEi1E3FHvvQ1045o7djY4JLmbRAUsZEfHTbJauaJ0JKoIld6CHQtEJF2mgjmmH3QoVt0mU1GnV7kd6Np8ncIQl9gjXz-RbX9f-ryrRowXwqX-SMw3vu3qt64AODs/s1600/nuh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8fPjnpJKaKd5rDnOhEi1E3FHvvQ1045o7djY4JLmbRAUsZEfHTbJauaJ0JKoIld6CHQtEJF2mgjmmH3QoVt0mU1GnV7kd6Np8ncIQl9gjXz-RbX9f-ryrRowXwqX-SMw3vu3qt64AODs/s1600/nuh.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Oh dear! I haven't blogged for 18 months. Time has just flown by to quickly.<br />
My intention is to start blogging again. I have lots of new ideas and activities to share.<br />
For now here are a few updates:<br />
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<li>Little-N is not so little any more. He is now 9 and half.</li>
<li>He is still attending a Montessori school and is showing us all the fruits of the Montessori method.</li>
<li>I am still managing the Montessori school we set up in 2011. We have now extended it to elementary age.</li>
<li>I am completing my training to cover 9-12 and I am so excited about all the new activities.</li>
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That all for today, but I will be back soon with some of Little-Ns latest work. </div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4152417203335968869.post-64941501412751338282013-04-28T21:17:00.000+01:002015-10-18T09:19:37.780+01:00Compound Words<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Last week Little-N was studying compound words. Here are some of the activities he worked on:</div>
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Files for these activities are <a href="http://thelearningark.com/content/compound-words" target="_blank">available here</a>.</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOELjiwhqlB7JnWcZxOSPkdQrjS_A4EJi3qfxRO_j-jzAbx3YR-YGYEwLvW9ULcdq9WKBvwy3xpDGQU74874FoQtYTIvg2erRg_4oSoIf8JkyAZlED4CiknIQnT-17rcDletgUVB2Bk5E/s1600/oct+2011+024.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665620565531219314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOELjiwhqlB7JnWcZxOSPkdQrjS_A4EJi3qfxRO_j-jzAbx3YR-YGYEwLvW9ULcdq9WKBvwy3xpDGQU74874FoQtYTIvg2erRg_4oSoIf8JkyAZlED4CiknIQnT-17rcDletgUVB2Bk5E/s320/oct+2011+024.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>Here Little-N matched pictures and root words to form compound words. He then recorded them in his book and drew pictures to illustrate.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL0GSEYzSDANHezkWjZqGbv3ZkobMcJSaJV0jFPfYNGBQ8Xvq6dTXN_f2AL_vDHMTmIh7mscg5vu7HKsJdfjR5ceb7PVG_uLOe8-_Xu-3HeEjv7aqxXp8UCFYNwEVcUWc06aG9kmsVC-Q/s1600/oct+2011+025.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665620553993705922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL0GSEYzSDANHezkWjZqGbv3ZkobMcJSaJV0jFPfYNGBQ8Xvq6dTXN_f2AL_vDHMTmIh7mscg5vu7HKsJdfjR5ceb7PVG_uLOe8-_Xu-3HeEjv7aqxXp8UCFYNwEVcUWc06aG9kmsVC-Q/s320/oct+2011+025.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>In this activity Little-N matched root words to form compound words. He is going through an illustrating phase and is drawing tiny pictures for everything her writes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ntcAwI3MzDPNsTcouy3eBJBDpkL9zZhzdPjngwcIFuMWHMP_a52DfO4I0g1yFDSx7iUL5CHK9ikzlJZO4XQqAUrAIyIeS3W0dQV848GOdPELJdqz_Xmxvrd56-zEhCXJfeqe2aNpY7E/s1600/oct+2011+026.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5665620549759095826" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ntcAwI3MzDPNsTcouy3eBJBDpkL9zZhzdPjngwcIFuMWHMP_a52DfO4I0g1yFDSx7iUL5CHK9ikzlJZO4XQqAUrAIyIeS3W0dQV848GOdPELJdqz_Xmxvrd56-zEhCXJfeqe2aNpY7E/s320/oct+2011+026.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>In this activity Little-N made a compound word chain by joining root words to form compound words. The files for these activities and more are available <a href="http://thelearningark.co.uk/index.php/language/word-study/compound-words.html">here.</a></div>
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N from the Learning Arkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11090391815249126797noreply@blogger.com5