NotesFAQContact Us
Collection
Advanced
Search Tips
Back to results
Peer reviewed Peer reviewed
Direct linkDirect link
ERIC Number: EJ997839
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2012-Sep
Pages: 5
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0036-8148
EISSN: N/A
Read--and Walk--to Antarctica
Harr, Natalie; Doneyko, Kathleen; Lee, Richard E., Jr.
Science and Children, v50 n1 p27-31 Sep 2012
The students at Crestwood Primary School proved that they have what it takes to exercise their bodies and their minds. In an effort to support their teacher's scientific expedition to Antarctica, students from kindergarten to second grade pledged to read books and do physical activity that equated to the 12,900 km (8,000-mile) journey to the bottom of the world. Students showcased their distances traveled in a school-wide display as their teacher blogged about her scientific travels around the globe. With support from families and teachers, these young learners tripled their goal by reading 2,000 books and moving "virtually" 38,600 km (24,000 miles) in the course of 10 weeks. Altogether, they strengthened not only their bodies, but also their understanding of science, geography, technology, and healthy living. This approach can be readily adapted for use in other schools looking to encourage a healthier lifestyle. This article describes how the authors engaged families to try to improve their children's exercise and reading habits not only at school but also in their homes. Though their project is unique due to its scientific and pioneering nature, there are many ways to conduct a similar project in school, even if a teacher does not have a connection to someone in a faraway place. Simply choose a meaningful destination with your students, perhaps one that connects with a reading or social studies lesson. (Contains 3 figures and 4 online resources.)
National Science Teachers Association. 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000. Tel: 800-722-6782; Fax: 703-243-3924; e-mail: membership@nsta.org; Web site: http://www.nsta.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Education; Grade 1; Grade 2; Kindergarten
Audience: Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A