Thursday, February 10, 2011

Asteroids and Comets

Today was presentation day in Astronomy class. AS shared about the International Space Station. BH's impressive model of Jupiter taught everyone about the largest planet. JR demonstrated Saturn to be the only planet the could float in water. Obvious effort was applied to these class presentations!


Today was also the day for my youngest student to teach. Braden, our first grade son, worked very hard on consolidating his information about Asteroids and Comets.


Last night, Braden was in tears begging not to do it. He was literally having a melt-down. Reid and I told him he would do great. Backing out would not be an option. He had to do it.
So, he practiced and practiced. Reid and I listened to the information three times. Weston helped by consistently being the class volunteer. Weston also surprised Braden with the noise of a clapping ovation coming from the computer when he finished. We all giggled!


Today, Braden's nervousness had dissipated. He was super confident. He prepared all of his visual aids, taking his time to learn all of the words.



Braden created a game for the kids. The students had to draw a surprise out of the bag then decide which part of the asteroid belt their object belongs in. (S-Type, Silicaceous - a rock, M-Type, Metallic - a screw, C-Type, Carbonaceous - a piece of coal)



Braden even decided to paint an asteroid costume for each person to wear while they drew out of the bag. The class appreciated the creative approach.



Although Braden is at least two years younger than all other students in this class, no one could tell today. He mustered up the needed courage. I was so proud of him for facing his fears!




When I consider your heavens,


the work of your fingers,


the moon and the stars,


which you have set in place,


what is mankind that you are mindful of them,


human beings that you care for them? - Psalm 8:3-4



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