Authentic Experiences

 Daniels, H., Bizar, M.,(2005) Teaching the Best PracticesWay and  Madison, l., Rydant, A. L., Jobin, R. A., & Sterling, C.,(2006) Welcome to worm central.  Teaching PerK-8, 6(5), 52-53. Retrieved from http://www-teachingk-8.com/ ) used for my annotated bibliography about integration of math and science were very much alike.  The two readings express learning for students through active experiences.  Daniels and Bizar(2005) discusses how a class of students can observe earthworms for two weeks.  They tell how the students come up with their own questions to lead their learing for small groups to investigate what the worms eat, reproduce how long do they live?  The scientific inquiry helps to nuture the students interest and curiosity.  Madison, l., Rydant, A. L., Jobin, R. A., & Sterling, C.,(2006) Welcome to worm central.Teaching PerK-8,36(5), 52-53. Retrieved from http://www-teachingk-8.com/ does the same thing.  The forth grade class at Epping Elementary in Epping NH have adopted a Vermicomposting Geographic Curriculum.  It was developed by the (NHGA) New Hampshire Geographic Alliance and it helped to make Ms. Lisa Madison's classroom "worm central"!   The students used measurement,weight and other math skills to help build a vermi-village for the worms and all along making connections to our earth.  The lessons were earth related and how the worms helped the ground and make compost for the plants to grow.  I found this article to strongly support the authentic learning idea discussed.  If you wish to get more project ideas you can e-mail Lisa Madison at lmadison@sau14.k12.nh.us.