South Africa!

Students are thoroughly invested in the study of South Africa. They work both in the classroom and the studio to apply their learning in various places including paint, collage, discovery and more. In addition, students have a specific research group that they meet with to investigate a certain topic they found most interesting. Next week, the groups will present their work to both Kindergarten classes and we were joyfully learn from one another. 

Three days a week the Kindergarten classes are mixed together to work collaboratively on a set project.  This group is studying geography and the land in South Africa. They are working together to paint a map in the studio involving colors that correspond to each region in South Africa. 

Dylan and Jacob work on animal collages using sculptures as a reference. They are challenged to include important details including spots, stripes and trunks!

The Kindergarten classes travel to an African marketplace buying different foods, clothing and more! A picture of a traditional market is portrayed on the scrim and students bring the market to life.

Noah and Kate work together to create the savanna, a popular place in South Africa for animals. Students continue to explore other ecoregions including the karoo, the highveld and the Kahalari desert.

Justin is a member of the Nelson Mandela research group. After exploring his life, Justin remembers  a specific part of Nelson Mandela's life through a painting.  

Students work busily to construct animals at the collage table.  

Research continues at the discovery table. Students use a variety of books to explore animals, people and places in South Africa. 

Another research group is investigating the life of Desmond Tutu. Together they construct the South African flag. They explore the meaning behind each color and the contribution Desmond Tutu had in this struggle for peace. 

The animal group researches in books to determine what an animal eats, where it lives, what it looks like and more. In the studio, students are sculpting and painting their research animal. 

Ryli uses South African money (Rand) to pay for his items.

We continue to embark on new experiences and adventures in South Africa. Whether we are reading stories about Shaka, King of the Zulus or watching a clip from a memorable speech, students are embracing this new culture.