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2/3 Theme Studies
Theme studies integrate the humanities and, when possible, science and math. One rich and interesting theme can provide many connections between facts, ideas, locations, peoples, and a students’ life experience. Themes can encompass history, geography, anthropology, sociology, current events, and research methods. Theme study is designed for depth of understanding rather than coverage of facts. In going deep, students not only learn much about a particular topic, they learn how to go deep in other subjects they encounter in their future schooling. Within a classroom, themes may vary from year to year.
Tr. Lisa Gamble (2005-2006): Explorations
Our theme this year will be Explorations. With the help of maps, we will "journey" around the world and through time-making discoveries about the world we live in. Our explorations will help us learn about each other, lead us to discoveries about Ancient Egypt, and take us on the trail with the Lewis and Clark Expedition. We will examine the natural world we "travel" as our science explorations focus on habitats, soils, and the
creation of land forms. Chemistry will also be an area of scientific exploration with lots of cool experiments. In addition, we will explore what it means to live and work as a community, working on being aware of others while expressing our own needs.
Tr. Laura Krebs (2005-2006): The Mississippi River
This year our class will be studying one of the most important rivers in the world: the Mississippi. We will follow the river’s journey and learn about the land, people, and animals that depend on it. Science units for this year will include the water cycle, soil, forests, and wetlands. In social studies, our connected units will be Native Americans and Pioneers. We will also be reading non-fiction books about the Mississippi, writing
tall tales inspired by those from the region, and experiencing rivers around us through field trips and presentations. Throughout the year we will be exploring the relationships between groups of people, humans and the environment, and people and literature.
Other possible themes include:
- Webs of Our World/ Diversity and Harmony
- Immigration, Blending Cultures, Sharing Resources
- Native Americans Living Closely with the Earth
- Africa
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