Dear Sixth Grade Families,
This week, we began the Astronomy block. Beginning with an introduction regarding early navigation using the stars, the class learned about the instruments used for celestial navigation, such as an astrolabe and sextant. The students shared the stars and constellations they are familiar with and have seen in the sky. The class also discussed how many cultures throughout time and history have had stories about the stars and the constellations.
This block utilizes story as the foundation for teaching students about the stars, and through the coming weeks, the students will listen to various stories about constellations as they learn to chart the night sky. Starting off with Ursa Major and the story of Callisto, the Bear allows the students to easily identify a starting point in the sky as well as understand circumpolar navigations. Building on the foundation of Greek Mythology in Fifth grade, the class listened to the story of Andromeda and the Sea Monster and Pegasus, the Winged Horse. We also heard two versions of stories associated with the constellation of Orion, one from Tongo and the other from ancient Egypt. Understanding how the stars were used as navigation tools helped the students become aware of the sophistication of early cultures. Additionally, we looked at the origins of the prime meridian and the introduction of our modern-day system for mapping the earth using longitude and latitude.
Announcements and Reminders:
Please join us for the Lantern Walk TONIGHT at 6:30 pm (the story will begin promptly at 6:30 pm in the sanctuary, and 6th grade students will help guide the singing for the Grades classes). At the end of the walk, your child will return the electric candle and take their lantern home to keep. If you are unable to attend the walk, lanterns will be sent home the next day your child attends school.
The autumn weather is here. Layering clothing is essential for students to be comfortable throughout the day.
Please label clothing!
Send two full water bottles daily.
Upcoming Events:
11/07: Kindergarten Lantern Walk: 6 pm
11/07: Grades 1 - 3 Lantern Walk: 6:30 pm
11/17: Thanksgiving Luncheon 11 am - Half Day
11/20 - 24: Thanksgiving Break (No School)
12/02: Open House: 10 am - 12 pm
With gratitude,
Ki Lesley and Ki Melissa
