For the past week, we learned all about Tu B’ Shevat. Last week we went on a nature walk and collected different parts of plants. This week, we talked about the different parts of the tree we had collected, and then we tried to figure out how we could use them to make a tree. We first spent time working out the idea of a design. When we were done designing, we assembled a tree, from the roots, the trunk, branches and leaves, flowers and fruits and hung it on the wall. We talked about our role in protecting the trees and other plants, and what they need to thrive: sun, water, and air. We tried to close our mouths and noses to see if we also need air and found out we do. We toyed with the thought that the roots of the tree are almost like its mouth, since it uses the roots to receive water. We later discovered the benefits of trees and plants and what they are used for: musical instruments and food were just some of the answers. We learned that trees provide shade and shelter, timber for construction and furniture. Trees and plants also provide us with fuel for cooking and heating, fruit for food, flour, toys, paper and much more. Critical thinking was used to find out the information and answer the thoughts of the children. By observing elements in the classroom and from pictures we decided to do an experiment by using fruit from a tree to bake a cake instead of using a baking pan. The children came up with an idea to bake a cake inside an orange. This experiment gave us various aspects: squeezing oranges and drinking fresh juice, working together to come up with an idea on how to bake a cake, experiencing the outcome of our experiment. Baking the cake led us to notice how much we are dependent on plants in our daily lives, and how important it is to protect and conserve them the best way we can. We also learned about different fruits and vegetables and how they classify into two groups: some grow in the ground and some on trees. We learned the blessing that is used for each group. We then saw that the seeds and pits inside each fruit are of different shapes and sizes (and quantity). We decided to investigate the pit of the avocado, various legumes, and other seeds. We put them in water and we are checking each day to see if something happens. Next week will also be dedicated to Tu B’ Shevat. Thank you so much to Julian’s mom who read us stories in the library this week! Reminders: * Room 14 - Picture Day will be on Tuesday, February 25th at 11:30 - 12:15 * Sasha will be our Shabbat girl on February 7th. Shabbat Shalom!!
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