Ganon Aleph Geologists

The children in Ganon Aleph became geologists this week when we began our study of rocks.  They used their senses of touch and sight to recognize that rocks come in different, shapes, sizes, and textures.  They learned the difference between igneous rocks, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks.  After learning that rocks can be formed from lava that erupts from volcanoes, we made our own volcano using red food coloring, baking soda, and vinegar.  The children enjoyed collecting rocks outdoors which they used to make their "rock families."  Who knew rocks could be so much fun?!

Look Close!

In honor of Tu B'Shvat, the early childhood classes conducted a nature scavenger hunt. Each class was given a long list of items to find on our school grounds. Some of these items were: twigs, stems, different types of leaves and rocks, pine cones, pods, moss, vines, and bark. Each item was either collected or documented, along with the location where it was found. Gan Bet brought several tools to aid the search, including sticky bracelets, binoculars, magnifying glasses, clip boards and pencils, cameras, and dough for making impressions. We gathered an amazing collection of natural items, and learned many new things. Inside, each child was treated to a cupcake from the yummy tree that we all baked. We sang Yom Huledet to the trees, and put up a bulletin board with pictures and items that we found on our hunt.

Geologists in Ganon Bet

The little geologists of Ganon Bet can tell you what causes a rock to change its shape and that a fossil is an impression made in the earth that hardens. They made their own fossils using their hands and feet.