Second & Third Grade: March 10-14, 2025

Mar 14

Hello, Second and Third Grade Families,

Last week, the students began their Fibers block. In this block, the children will learn about natural and manmade materials such as silk, wool, flax, cotton, bamboo, animal furs, and polyester.

We began our block with a study of silk. The children learned the history of silk and the process that it goes through to become a fabric. The children also learned about silkworm farms dating back to ancient China, learned the lifecycle of a silkworm, and heard the legend of Leizu, who it is said discovered silk when a cocoon fell into her cup of tea.

On Wednesday, the children began learning about wool. They discussed different animals that can produce wool, such as sheep, vicuña, rabbits, and Angora goats. They looked at their clothing and discovered that many of them have clothing made from wool, and they discussed how it is a good material for different weather conditions.

Throughout the week, the children created a model of a loom that wove silk, wool, cotton, and bamboo threads together. On Thursday, they spent the day focused on weaving, and each child created a loom of their own. They learned about the pieces of the loom and how to string the loom together. They learned that weavers would often sing while working and sang a song as a class while they each created their own small wool decoration that they will take home once completed.

Next week, we will continue our study of fibers by discussing flax and linen, cotton, and animal hides. Please remember to send in forms for the field trip to AB farm, which will conclude our block on March 28. There, the children will visit Angora goats. Angora goat wool is called mohair, and it is known for its softness. It should be a fun trip for all!

Announcements and reminders for Second and Third Grade: