February 13th, 2007

BESST KIDS 9:15-10:00

Began the greenhouse assembly by sorting out 51 frame pieces and finding the assembly instructions, a twenty page booklet. Ended the period by looking at the recent willow plantings, a science inquiry project of Mrs. Harwood’s class.

Math Lab 10:15-11:15

Four students. An unfolded flag on a desk prompted Christy to say she knew how to fold the flag properly. So we did. Students continued using a many folded sheet of paper (16 rectangles) to represent the fraction of an inch found on their rulers. In the past we have discussed the need to calibrate measuring devices, such as a ruler. Demonstrated the calibration of a balance scale and discussed the need to calibrate grocery scales and gas pumps. And reviewed the differences, in measurements, between a mistake (human caused) and an error (instrument related).

Mr. Lewis’s Stream Keepers 12:00- 12:45

Two students bundled and labeled similar greenhouse frame parts and helped get everything repackaged. Two other students began installing the stream flow measuring box (gauge) on the site prepared over the last few weeks.

Mrs. Harwood’s Stream Keepers 12:45-1:30

Two students used the wheelbarrow to haul gravel to the greenhouse pad. Two others continued clipping blackberry that have encroached on the pond.

Mrs. Elkington’s Stream keepers’ 1:30-2:15

Four students checked to see if any tulips have emerged from two sites. One has been mulched (girls) and the other is bare (boys).

Also checked out the tulip status in North America on the “Journey North” website tulip project page. Students had maps and data sheet to take back to class. They ended the period by planting white alder container stock along the creek bank.

After School Science Club 3:00-4:15

Students seem to appreciate the new snacks provided by the school. It is a nice lunch. Josie brought in a picture of the Hawaii State Flag as we have been talking about the connection between Hawaii and the Hudson Bay Company. By the 1850s, about half of their employees at fort Vancouver were Hawaiian.

Students continued working on their cabin models located on sites they selected within the Walla Walla watershed in the 1830 time period.

Also went out to the lab to work on pond restoration and stream flow gauge installation.