First and second grade Biomes is getting messy by learning about soil and exploring the elements that make up soil. This is the time of year that leaves drop and plants begin to decompose, making up leaf litter. Students found a few rocks and saw what happened when force is applied to them with a hammer. The stones broke into smaller and smaller bits, a process that happens in nature due to water, ice, and wind. The minerals from rocks combine with leaf litter, other organic matter, water, and air to make soil. A core sample of soil was taken and the changes that happen a we dig further into the ground could be observed. Layers of the soil, from bedrock to leaf litter and everything in between were observed. 

Grades 1-3 had a visit from Emily Legg, McGuffey parent and member of the Cherokee tribe. This is always a great way to remind students that Native American people are still living in this country. Emily told us a story about corn husk dolls which explained why they have no faces. After she shared the story, she helped students make their own dolls. These dolls were a huge hit, with students crafting and sewing clothes for their dolls. Emily also shared a traditional bean bread, made from masa harina and cooked in corn husks. We are so fortunate to have community that helps bring our lessons to life!