Poetry, Art, and Math Inspired by Crystals: 2nd Grade's Last Week of Geology!

It's kind of hard to not be inspired by crystals...and glitter.  The 2nd graders enjoyed writing about the magical rocks that we have been studying.

Paper gem lanterns!  We could not have accomplished these little jewels without the help of our marvelous 8th grade helpers and visiting parents!  Thank you guys!  ...and thank you to Jossen's mom, Marianne, for all of the help you've given from home.

"Keep your dear teacher happy" sign.  :)

Snowflakes are crystals!  The morning snow on Thursday inspired some learning about the formation of these types of crystals as well as talk about symmetry.

And the grand finale: breaking open geodes!  True magical surprises from nature.

The Beauty of Crystals and the Rock Cycle in 2nd!

My 2nd graders really got into the magic of crystals this week.  They learned about 

how crystals form... and then they made and drew their own crystals!

For a treat on Thursday afternoon the kiddos created the rock cycle using chopped up Starburt candy.  Thank you to Jossen and his family for chopping up all of that candy!

Minerals Rock!! 2nd Grade Visits Taos Gem and Minerals!

It was so inspiring to visit Ms. Pam in her beautiful store, Taos Gem and Minerals.  She welcomed 19 seven and eight year olds in to her museum-like store... and for that she is a brave woman.  She was so kind...she let each kiddo choose  rock to take home.  Please go and visit her amazing shop....right across the street from TISA!

Our first trip to the Harwood: Colchas and Embroidery!