In addition to conservation of number, our students are also acquiring insight into conservation of length and mass. We used two rulers to demonstrate conservation of length. “Is each ruler just as long as the other?” Left to explore, the children laid the rulers side by side so that the ends of each ruler were even. They also rested them on top of each other, examined the measurement marks, and counted to thirty on each ruler. The children quickly agreed that the rulers were of equal length. We then moved one ruler forward so that it stuck out past the other ruler. “Now are the two rulers the same length, or is one ruler longer than the other?” The length of the rulers stayed the same even when we slid one past the other and changed their appearances!
In a similar activity, we showed the children two identical balls of playdough that the students agreed contained the same amount of clay. With the group watching, various children took turns squeezing the balls or rolling them into snakes. Comparing the two modified clumps we asked, “Does each piece still have the same amount of playdough, or does one piece have more?” The children realized that although they had changed the shapes of the mounds of clay, we hadn’t discarded any. There must still be the same amount of dough!
The children continue to self-direct their play both inside and outside. As you can see from the photos, they are all up to something awesome! Board games and cards seem to be a big hit, as well as dramatic play and the creation of elaborate spinners.
Mme England-Boyd and Mme Brown's class were very excited to find their treasure! We left a note indicating that we will provide them with a popcorn party! In order to continue the fun and work on spatial sense and mapping skills the other outside group created a new treasure map and hid a treasure in a new spot for M. Adam and Mme J's class. What fun!
Please remember to send a hat and a water bottle with your child. We have a brand new water fountain with a filter for easy fill ups!
Have a great day!