In our class, we choose to PLAY and have FUN while we learn!
After reading the story Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, we were challenged to work together as a class to make our very own coconut tree. We looked at the book and quickly figured out what our coconut tree would need.
The Afternoon Kinders created an island first out of our tree cushions and then added a trunk out of some big cardboard tubes. When it came time to add the palm leaves, they noticed that they would not "stick out" like they did in the story. The poster paper was too heavy.
To get some more design ideas, we googled a picture of a real palm tree and noticed lines going down the middle of each leaf. We thought we should add veins to our leaves too. After some trial and error, with blocks, rulers, tubes, markers and dowels, we finally got our leaves to "stick out" just like in the story!
The Morning Kinders were given the exact same challenge. They quickly got to work and started building. Unlike the Afternoon Kinders, they decided that they wanted to make their own trees, or a tree with a few friends.
While the Afternoon Kinders were creating their Coconut tree, someone spotted a role of tickets at the craft center. It was decided on the spot, that the coconut tree was going to be for a Chicka Chicka Movie Theatre! We made a sign, handed out the tickets and even had movie theatre security!
As we were watching the movie, our tree took a little tumble and came crashing down. We were very surprised, but learned a lot. Next time we need to use more tape!!
The Morning Kinders were inspired by the Movie Theatre idea. It was decided that cozy corner would now be called "Coconut Corner" and should look like a beach complete with an ocean, palm trees and letter fish!!
Now the stage is set for learning all about the alphabet in a creative and engaging way!
Everyone did such an amazing job on our first kindergarten challenge. We celebrated by making our own Chicka Chicka Boom Boom tree out of cookies, apples, grapes and cereal!
Now we can say, "We ate a tree today and it was delecious!"
