4th Grade: Architecture

4th graders are learning about architecture.  We began by examining our pre-existing knowledge of architecture.  Then,  we explored some famous buildings in the world, where they are located, and what we think makes them notable.   We learned about the elements of art and the principles of design. After that, we were challenged to create our own Me Monuments.  The monuments had to be 3 dimensional and symbolize who we are.   Students sketched and planned their monuments and used recyclable materials to create their monuments.  

Each monument was very unique and had already had various architectural features like columns, pediments, foundations, etc. before we had even officially introduced the features.  

Students presented their Me Monument designs to the class.  

Then we started learning about the various styles of architecture throughout history creating a digital timeline.  We also learned about architectural features and created some sketches of features including famous buildings that included those particular features.  
We tied Black History Month to our architectural unit and researched famous black architects that impacted architecture in our nation.  We shared our learning with the class by creating a poster to hang on our bulletin board and telling our classmates about our research.  This was both enlightening and interesting.

We have enjoyed our architecture unit so far!  It's a good combination of research and hands-on learning.  

 

Learning about Europe!

Our 2nd & 3rd graders just finished up a unit about Europe!  We started our unit by discussing that Europe is known for its contribution to art and culture in the western world. We kick-started our European unit by trying out the artistic style of Pablo Picasso (cubism). We created a self-portrait in Picasso's cubist style.

We explored the geography of Europe-- both the physical and political features.  

Then, we began to plan a European vacation.  We were going to become travel guides and create a presentation to convince someone to go on a European vacation to 3 different cities.  First, we had to choose which 3 cities in somewhat close proximity to visit in Europe.  Then, we researched fun things to do, foods one could try, customs or traditions that one could take part in those cities/countries.  

Students created either an Imovie, Keynote, or Google slideshow of their European vacation ideas and presented their ideas to the class.

After presenting our ideas, we began calculating the budget for our trip.  After determining the number of people going on the trip, the number of nights travelers would be spending in each city, students calculated airfare, lodging, meals, ground transportation, cost of activities, souvenirs, tips, snacks, and miscellaneous spending costs. 

I think a lot of students were surprised with the cost of a European vacation.  It is a trip that you would have to spend some time really saving for!  This was a fun way to incorporate math into our unit.   Europe is very interesting-- it's no wonder that it is the most traveled continent in the world.  

Our next unit, Creative Convention, will really focus on teamwork and problem-solving!  Students will have to complete many hands-on challenges.  We will continue to update you on our learning in Idea Lab.