Northwest Elementary Hosts Sea Camp In El Dorado
Each year, Northwest Elementary fourth graders go on an adventure to study shoreline habitats at Dauphin Island, AL. This year, teachers came together to host the event in El Dorado. Students engaged in learning activities on campus and around town.
The Beach
Our open field turned into a beach. Students explored in the sand, dug for sea shells and hunted for a variety of materials. They sorted their treasures into categories. They discovered evidence of humans, animals, plants, and minerals. This was made possible by a donation from Rock & Gravel Co. We appreciate their generosity!
Volcanoes Erupted
Another area of the field became a ring of volcanoes. Students worked in groups to create volcanoes, mix the ingredients and watch them erupt. It was a great way for them to review the different types of volcanoes they had studied.
A Work of Art
The teachers led their students in creating a beach scene mural. Each class worked together to make a unique canvas piece that will be displayed in the hall. These art pieces will be a reminder of the students that passed through Northwest and the memories we shared with them.
Other activities included:
Sea Life Readers’ Theatre
Team Build
Teams built floating structures.
Whale Length
Make shell fossils
Star Cinema & Old City Park
During our Sea Camp, students traveled to Star Cinema to view DisneyNature: Oceans. They got to see a wide variety of sea life and their survival strategies. Viewing this on the big screen was the closest thing to an actual aquarium experience.
Later that day, students spent time at Old City Park. They played on the equipment, ate lunch, and made ice cream.
The Complex
Our final Sea Camp location was at The Complex. Students were outside the classroom engaged in learning centers that focused on water and shoreline life. Thank you to the Boys & Girls Club for allowing us to use the facilities.
Dissect Starfish
Students dissected starfish. They observed characteristics of the external layer of the starfish. Then, they began to explore the internal structures. They identified the gender and named their starfish. They found the digestive system and other internal structures.
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Clean Up the Oil Spill
After reviewing some background knowledge established in the classroom, the students were able to discuss and problem solve the model oil spill that was presented to them. They also pitched in to clean up the animal models that were affected by the oil.
Kite Flying
Students put together kites and discovered the effects of wind.
More Fun
They got to enjoy a water slide and the playground. Some students spent time in the sand.
Reflections
Each day students spent time writing about their experiences and the lessons they learned. It was an amazing time for our fourth graders.