First graders in Eryn Maher's class at Hemlock School engaged in an interdisciplinary learning experience that integrates social studies, literacy, art, and digital fluency and aims to deepen students' understanding of their school community while fostering creativity and technical skills.
As part of the first grade social studies curriculum, students learn about citizenship and being a member of a community, focusing on their Hemlock School community. The learning experience kicked off with students using Google Earth to locate and explore Hemlock School and its surrounding environment, enriching their geographical knowledge and providing a unique perspective on their immediate environment.
Mrs. Maher engaged students in a read-aloud of the picture book, “School is More Than a Building” by Kelley Donner, which spotlights all of the people in a school who teach, nurture and care for students. Inspired by the book, the children sketched portraits of the members of the Hemlock School community. To expand their knowledge further, students will invite a member of their school community to their class for an interview to learn more about them and the important role they play.
As part of a writing unit, the students wrote informational books detailing fascinating facts about Hemlock School. They published these digital books using one of their favorite apps, Book Creator, which allowed them to document their handwritten work and include voice recordings, creatively expressing their ideas and sharing their projects with others.
"The enthusiasm and dedication shown by our first graders in these learning experiences have been truly inspiring," Maher said. "By integrating multiple disciplines, we are able to offer a more holistic and engaging learning experience that encourages our students to explore and appreciate their school community in new and meaningful ways."
The Hemlock School community is proud of the hard work and creativity demonstrated by Mrs. Maher's first grade class and looks forward to more innovative projects in the future.