Tag Archives: math

May19

Graduation

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Graduation

This is a bittersweet time of year for us—-the time we say goodbye to our graduating seniors. For our unit, we are focusing on all the fun aspects of graduation. The sensory groups explored boxes with lots of different textures and colors. The fine motor group art projects were all about shapes and the language group made a unique dessert!

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

We put a lot of fun items in this box, including an actual graduation cap! Also included were mylar balloons, play money, toy camera, phone, sunglasses, etc.

Always fun to see what intrigues each student.

 

 

 

Pomp and Circumstance was recorded on a voice output device.

Science access point: recognize a model of a real object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The numbers 2 0 1 9 were found in colorful confetti rice.

 

 

 

 

 

At the bottom of the box was a picture of a cute owl in a cap and gown.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This box was dedicated to our school mascot—–an owl!

 

 

 

 

 

There were 2 plush owls and a fluffy feather boa that reminded us of owl feathers.

Math access point: recognize similarities and differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some graduates go on to college programs, so we represented that choice with a box of colorful cheerleader pompoms in the colors of nearby Universities.

 

 

 

 

So much fun to shake—-go team!

Science access point: recognize the change in the motion of an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Parties are a part of graduation events and when you have a party there is usually CAKE! Our cloud dough was made using strawberry cake mix and it smelled SO good!

 

 

 

We put a small spoon and a larger measuring cup as well as toy whisk.

 

Math access point: recognize similarities and differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Keeping in the celebratory mood we added some colorful Mr. Bubble bath crackles into our oobleck.

 

 

 

 

The snap, crackle, and pop sounds were really fun!

Science access point: track objects in motion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some lucky graduates might get to go on a cruise! We put in a couple of little boats to float around a mini ocean. There were also some fun fishy bath toys and pool noodle pieces.

 

 

 

Coconut scented bath gel made for some aromatic bubbles!

Science access point: match objects by an observable property, such as size, shape, and color.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our scent this week is a follow up on the cruise experience and so we used a True Blue lotion called Tahiti Sweetie. We thought it would smell like coconut, but it turned out that it smelled like mango!

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday, the students made decorative banners.

First, they identified a triangle using communication symbols.

Math access point: recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, they used paper cutters, switch operated scissors, and regular scissors to cut out triangles.

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They used star stampers and glitter to decorate their triangles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

A little curling ribbon finished it off!

Math access point: recognize when an object or person is added to a situation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We celebrate our graduates!!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday, the students made graduation caps using paper bowls.

First, they identified the shape of their paper using communication symbols.

Math access point: recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, they used markers to decorate their squares. We had previously cut the 8 inch squares out of poster board.

They could draw any design they wanted, but we did encourage them to use different colors.

 

 

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

Time to add a little glitter! Of course, we rocked out to our glitter song—-“shake, shake, shake, your glitter”! It is sung to tune of that old KC and the Sunshine Band song.

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize when an object or person is added to a situation.

 

 

 

 

 

The square was glued to a paper bowl and the adults helped attach a tassel (pre-made using scrap yarn) and……..

 

 

 

 

…………TA DA!!!

It’s graduation time!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

This week, we made some cute little edible diplomas!  Here is the recipe that we used: Let’s Make Diploma S’mores

We started by counting out how many plates we needed.  This recipe is a little different in that each student got to participate in each step of the recipe.

Each student had to request a small tortilla.  They PUT that on their plate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, they had to request some marshmallow fluff.  Once they said they WANTED some, they had to SPREAD it around with a spoon.  There were lots of comments about how sticky it was 🙂

 

 

 

 

Then, each student had to request some Nutella and they SPREAD that on top of the fluff.

 

 

 

 

 

We then had to ROLL up the tortilla to look like a rolled up diploma.

To finish it off, we used a strip of Twizzlers pull’n’peel and they had to TIE it around the tortilla.  This was a little bit difficult for our students, so they had to make sure and ask for HELP if they needed it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TADA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

A yummy (yet slightly messy) graduation treat 🙂

 

 

 

 

We still have an After Party post coming, but this is our last regular post of the school year. Hope you will be back in August to join us—–Group by Group!

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Apr6

Where We Go On CBI

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Where We Go On CBI

Our older students have the opportunity to go out into the community on a regular basis to practice independent functioning, communication, social, and academic skills. We call this Community Based Instruction. Our sensory groups explored boxes related to the different community locations. The fine motor groups made some fun art projects and the language group made frozen treats you might buy while out and about!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Students used cookie cutters to stamp B U S into school bus yellow moon sand.

 

 

 

 

School buses are used to transport the students to their various CBI destinations.

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blue and white rice represented one of the most popular CBI locations—— Walmart! There was a picture of a bus and another of a Walmart store to find at the bottom of the box.

 

 

 

There were also two different sized spoons to use for scooping fun!

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Another popular location is the Publix grocery store. Here the students purchase food/snacks for themselves or classroom activities.

 

 

 

 

We put a variety of fun food items—–some of which made noise when squeezed!

Science access point: recognize and respond to different types of sensory stimuli.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When going shopping, the one thing you need is MONEY!

 

 

 

 

 

There were different play money coins to find buried in this box of multicolored beans.

Science access point: recognize coins as money.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sometimes our students get to participate in sporting events—-such as bowling or basketball.

 

 

 

 

 We thought that making balls out of bright yellow Floam would be a great representation of those activities.

Math access point: recognize a common three-dimensional object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Messy play represented the Community Arts program. We put some drops of food coloring in the shaving foam and let our artistic students mix it together.

 

 

 

This was a lot of fun but made for some multi-coloring fingers when done 🙂

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Many of our parks have a lake or water feature. Our water feature contained the letters C B I to scoop up. We also included some fun scoops.

 

 

 

 

Messy hands sometimes made some very colorful rinsing water!

Math access point: recognize differences in sizes of containers that hold liquids.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bath and Body Works vanilla sugar scent reminded us of some yummy Publix cookies 🙂

 

 

 

 

It was definitely a hit!

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made a CBI map.

First, they identified the shape of their paper and the color of their marker.

Math access point: recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape.

Science access point: identify objects with one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They used the black marker to scribble roads on their maps.

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

Next, they used a paper cutter or scissors to cut out some of the most popular CBI stops.

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They glued the pictures and a school bus (cut from the Ellison machine) on to their maps.

 

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize when an object has been added to a situation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are ready……..

……..let’s go on CBI.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday the students made chicken nuggets—-a favorite treat to pick up on CBI.

First, the students identified the number 3 and the shape of our plate.

Math access point: associate quantities of number names.

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape.

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we mixed some rice krispies into our paint to give it texture and painted our 3 nuggets.

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

Since it is nice to have a little dipping sauce, we tinted some corn syrup and dripped a little of that on to the nuggets 🙂

The corn syrup will dry to a glassy finish.

Science access point: track objects that fall to the ground.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chicken nuggets—-YUMMY!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

Since shopping can tire us out, we made our own icees using this recipe: Let’s Make Strawberry Lemonade Icees

First we PUT 6 cups of ice into the blender.  We talked about the ice being COLD and why it was cold.

Each student got to HELP PUT some ice in the blender.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we PUT some water into the blender.  We were going to TURN it on, but we saw that something was wrong.

 

 

 

 

 

Our students had to indicate that we needed the top on first.  We turned it on to crush up the ice some.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, we added some lemonade mix.  We observed that the color of our ice water was changing to a DIFFERENT color.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we PUT some strawberries with sugar into the blender.  Time to mix it up!

Each student got to HELP press the switch to TURN on the blender.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once it was ALL DONE, each student had to request an icee by indicating and/or saying WANT or DRINK.  They would also have to indicate that they wanted MORE.

Students told us if they thought the drink tasted SWEET or SOUR.

 

 

These were very tasty!  A good treat for all 🙂

 

 

 

It was a great week! Join us again next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

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Mar31

Green

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Green

Between the first day of spring and St. Patrick’s day, March is all about GREEN! Our sensory groups explored monochromatic boxes with lots of different textures. Our fine motor groups used green paint to complete their art projects and the language group made a tasty green treat!

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

This first box contained a variety of green objects including beads, a shaker pompom, plastic leaves, a toy lizard, shamrocks, and a cute green frog puppet.

 

 

 

 

There were lots of different things to explore!

Science access point: recognize a model of a real object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our green rice included some colorful contrasting beans. It was a very eye catching box with a real springtime feel! There were two different sized spoons for scooping fun.

 

 

 

 

There were also both upper and lower case letter G’s to find.

Science access point: match objects by one observable property, such as shape.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Using a cookie cutter, the students stamped letter G into bright green kinetic sand.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We also put in a fun dinosaur figure to find.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students loved squeezing and crumbling this green Bubber.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We also included another cookie cutter——this time a shamrock!

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our light box was very eye catching and a hit with the students.

 

 

 

 

 

We used a cut up green plastic file folder and hot glued it to the sides of a clear shoebox. The battery packs are attached to the lid with velcro.

Science access point: recognize sources of light.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Green oobleck was super fun to explore. The green food coloring did tint fingers a little——- but Hulk hands are pretty cool 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

We love messy fun!

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two different sized green scoops and a toy tugboat added to the fun of our water play. We scented the water with Bath and Body Works rain kissed leaves bath gel.

 

 

 

 

The scent seemed a perfect choice for this week!

Math access point: recognize difference in sizes of containers that hold liquids.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The rain kissed leaves lotion had a light scent that the students really liked…..

 

 

 

 

 

…..whether rubbed on hands, arms, behind ears, or under chins!

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday, the students used an adapted stamper to paint some green grass.

First, the students identified the shape of their paper and the color of their paint.

Math access point: recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape.

Science access point: identify an object by one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

 

Next, the students stamped UP and DOWN.

 

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship.

 

 

 

 

 

Then, they chose a colorful butterfly to add to the scene.

 

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Welcome spring and……

……everything GREEN!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday, the students painted this green bug: bug template

First, they identified the color of the paint.

Science access point: identify an object by one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The bug template was put in a clear box and the students added 3 paint colored marbles.

Time to shake, shake, shake that box!

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

We pulled the bug out and glued it DOWN on the background paper.

Math access point: recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, the students added some chenille stem “legs”.

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beautiful green bugs!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

Of course, we are making a GREEN treat for the language group.  This week we made green milkshakes using this recipe: Let’s Make A Green Milkshake

We started by TURNing the page to see the first step of the recipe.  Since it was ice cream, we let each student touch the container first and indicate that it felt COLD.  We talked about why it was cold as well and located the freezer.

Science access point: recognize objects or materials as warm or cold.

 

 

 

 

 

Then we measured out 2 cups of ice cream and PUT it in the BLENDER.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We measured out a cup of milk and PUT that in the BLENDER as well.  We observed that there is one cup of milk in a container of school milk.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we added some green food coloring.  Our students HELPed count out 10 drops.

Then we TURNed on the blender.  After each student, we asked if the milk shake was ALL DONE or if we needed to blend it some MORE.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once it was all finished, we poured the milk shake into cups. Our students got to have some whipped cream and green sprinkles too.

 

 

 

 

Shake, shake, shake your sprinkles 🙂

 

 

 

 

Green milkshakes—–YUM!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are so happy to be back with more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

Don’t forget to check your SPAM folder for your confirmation email if you want to follow us.

 

Mar17

Machines

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Machines

This goes along with the Unique Curriculum unit some of our students are learning about this month. The sensory group explored boxes related to different machines. The fine motor groups made machine themed art projects and the language group used machines to make a yummy snack.

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

School buses are machines that most of our students are familiar with. There were 2 different buses to find in the black beans of this box.

 

 

 

 

 

There was a small yellow school bus and a larger orange one—-which left us wondering where they drive orange buses!

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as size or color.

 

 

 

 

 

Everybody loves trains! A train engine cookie cutter was included with blue moon sand so the students could stamp as many trains as they wanted!

 

 

 

 

Of course, they also loved the feel of the sand itself. Moon sand is so soft to the touch.

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

 

 

 

 

Construction vehicles are popular machines around here! There were 3 different toy construction vehicles to rearrange some coffee grounds and dried beans.

 

 

 

There was a picture of a simple machine to find at the bottom of the box.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A much smaller machine—-a pencil sharpener inspired this box! The students had fun “writing” in sawdust with a big giant pencil!

 

 

 

 

There were also two different sized scoops included to add to the fun.

Math access point: recognize similarities and differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

Battery operated fans provided wind power…..

 

 

 

 

 

and lots of giggles 🙂

Science access point: indicate awareness of air moving.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A toy airplane flew around fluffy shaving cream clouds.

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize a model of a real object.

 

 

 

 

 

Hands were rinsed under a spinning water wheel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our water wheel is always a hit with the students.

Science access point: recognize one way people use water.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We added a twist to our scent this week. Special scratch and sniff cards that had oil and gasoline scents were presented first.

 

 

 

We all agreed we did not like these scents!

We then switched to pumpkin pie paradise from Bath and Works. Pumpkin pies are something you might use a machine to make 🙂

 

 

 

 

And much yummier smelling!

Science access point: recognize and respond to one type of sensory stimuli.

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday we made some big trucks!

First, the students identified the shapes of our art materials.

Math access point: recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, the students identified which rectangle was BIG and which was LITTLE.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The rectangles were glued down on a piece of paper starting with the LITTLE one, then gluing the BIG one beside it.

Math access point: recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship.

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we counted out 3 bottle cap “wheels” and glued them to the bottom of the truck.

 

 

 

 

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We love machines!

Keep on trucking!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday the students made a clothes dryers using this template:dryer template

First, they identified the shapes of our materials.

Math access point:  recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We gave the students a circular piece of paper with clothes drawn on it and asked them to color the clothing with different colors.

 

 

 

 

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as size or color.

 

 

 

 

 

They glued their clothes circle on to a paper plate and then glued the paper plate and dryer clothes on to a large piece of paper.

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize a change in the appearance of an object.

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We love machines—–

they help make our chores easier!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We used 2 different compound machines today when we made our recipe!  Here is the recipe we used: Let’s Make Dirt Cups

We started by talking about what we were going to MAKE.  One of our students was hesitant about this because of the name of the recipe, so we talked about the word edible again and students located EAT on their boards.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First, we PUT instant chocolate pudding mix into a BOWL.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We had to measure out 2 cups of milk.  Each student felt the bottle of milk and indicated that it was COLD.

 

 

 

 

 

We had a pint of milk, so we measured out 1 cup and then had to measure out 1 MORE.  We talked about how there are 2 cups in a pint.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We used our first compound machine, the mixer, to mix up the pudding.  Each student got to HELP press the wireless switch to TURN on the mixer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We got the pudding ready by mixing Cool Whip into it. The students helped stir the mixture and watched it change from a mix of colors to just one color.

 

 

 

 

 

We set the pudding aside and got out our 2nd compound machine, a food processor.  We PUT 5 Oreos into the food processor and TURNED it on.

One of our students got to HELP PUT the Oreo “dirt” on the tops of each treat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Each student got a small amount of the pudding mix. They had to request MORE.

 

 

 

 

 

This dirt is yummy!

 

 

 

We off for the next week for spring break but we will back after that with more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

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Mar10

Women in Sports

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Women in Sports

March is Women’s History Month and this year we decided to take a look at some famous women in sports. The sensory groups explored boxes dedicated to some of the women featured in our book. Each box also contained a photo of the athlete. The fine motor groups made sports themed art projects and the language group hosted a sports event!

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

This box was filled with gold beads, reminding us of all the gold medals won by sprinter Wilma Rudolph.

 

 

 

 

 

Whether worn, shaken, or just explored the beads were a hit with the students.

Science access point: uses senses to recognize  objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students made their own basketballs out of orange Floam in this box dedicated to famous WNBA player Lisa Leslie.

 

 

 

 

 

Floam has a unique texture which many of our students find intriguing as they squeeze it into shapes.

Science access point: recognize a common three dimensional object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sarah Thomas was the first woman to referee an NFL game. There were black, white, and striped pompoms to sort.

 

 

 

 

Of course, the students loved exploring the soft texture also.

Science access point: match objects with similar observable properties, such as size, shape, color, or texture.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jackie Joyner Kersee is ranked as one of the greatest athletes of all time! She donned red, white, and blue to compete in four olympic games!

 

 

 

 

 

Our colorful rice contained two different size measuring cups for scooping fun.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Since Chloe Kim competed in the winter olympics we filled her box with some insta snow. We also put in a rake and shovel, so the students could make their own half pipes!

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

The students made tracks in shaving foam. We put in a little car for them to race around their track like famous race car driver Janet Guthrie.

 

 

 

 

The students had a lot of fun with this, especially when we made engine sounds as the car raced around 🙂

Science access point: recognize that an object can move in different directions, such as left to right, straight line, and zigzag.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gertrude Ederle was the first woman to swim the English Channel—how cool is that! We put in some fish themed toys and pool noodles in her box.

 

 

 

 

The fish toys were especially fun as they had holes for water to drip through.

Science access point: recognize different containers that hold liquids.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thinking of the flower blankets winning horses wear, we used Crabtree and Evelyn rose scent for our lotion this week.

 

 

 

While most of the adults were not fans of the scent, most of the students seemed to like the aroma!

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made basketballs. We have done this craft before but since it fit our theme so well, we did it again 🙂

First, the students identified the shape of their ball and the color of the paint we were going to use.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

Math access point: recognize a common object with a two-dimensional shape.

 

 

 

 

 

The students stamped UP and DOWN using a bubble wrapped kitchen scrubber.

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship, such as up and down.

 

 

 

 

 

The ball was glued on to a piece of paper and…..

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!

Let’s play ball!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday, the students made referee shirts.

First, they identified the color of their markers.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, they drew stripes on their shirts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some of the students used a switch operated drawing tool.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ta DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

These referees are ready for game day!!!!

Who is ready to play 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

Since we are talking about women in sports this week, we decided to have our own heptathlon!

We started out by having a parade of athletes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other students who were not participating were part of the crowd cheering everyone on.

 

 

 

 

 

For the first event, we had wheelchair relay races.  These were so fun!  Athletes racing had to WAIT until they saw the GO symbol and then they were off!  We talked about going FAST.

 

 

The winner was the first to cross the pink ribbon.

 

 

 

 

 

The next event we held was the javelin.  Our students had to THROW the pool noodle and see who could get it the FARTHEST.  Some of our students needed a little more help than others with throwing 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We had another throwing event: the discus.  Again, our students had to THROW the “discus” and see which one went the farthest.  We’ve got some competitive kiddos.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 4th event was the pool noodle hurdle.  Students had to step or jump OVER the pool noodles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Again, some students required a little more help than others, but they made it through!

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we held the snowboard balance event.  Students had to use good balance to stay up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

This was a difficult event, but they did wonderfully!

 

 

 

 

 

The 6th event, the trampoline high jump, was a fun event!  Jumpers had to see how HIGH they could get while jumping on the mini-trampoline.

 

 

 

 

 

Lots of fun!

 

 

 

 

 

Our 7th and final event was the bean bag archery event.  Students had to THROW the bean bags into the holes.  Awesome job!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Throughout our events we had students use sentence strips to say, “my turn”.

We also had ones with positive statements on them like “you did awesome”, “great job”, and “way to go” so that our students could cheer each other on.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we had the medal ceremony.  All participants received a medal or trophy for their hard work.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are all winners!

 

 

 

 

Join us again next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

Don’t forget if you want to follow us, check for your confirmation email.

Mar3

Aladdin

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Aladdin

This week we went with a fun theme—-Aladdin! The sensory group explored magical boxes. The fine motor groups made colorful art projects using recycled materials and the language group made some magic carpet treats!

 

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Our magic carpet ride umbrella was colorful and eye catching! In addition to the Genie figure attached to the handle, there were Aladdin and Jasmine toy figures riding craft foam magic carpet to find.

 

 

 

To add to the experience, there was a voice output device with music from the movie.

Science access point: recognize a source of light.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We put a laminated picture of the Cave of Wonder for Aladdin and Abu to find as they trekked through kinetic sand.

 

 

 

 

At the bottom of the box there was also a picture of Aladdin.

Science access point: apply a push to move an object

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Cave of Wonder contained many treasures—-just like our discovery bottles.

 

 

 

 

Sequins, beads, glitter swirled around and were pretty mesmerizing!

Science access point: distinguish between objects in motion and at rest.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There were 6 colorful relatives of Abu to find in this box of turquoise beans. We put in 2 green, 2 purple, and 2 orange monkeys.

 

 

 

 

Fun to find AND hook together!

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to or taken away from a situation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our Rajah box was VERY eye catching and the students loved it! There were 2 big and 1 little tiger that were pretty well camouflaged in the orange rice and black beans.

 

 

 

 

A picture of Princess Jasmine could be found at the bottom of this box.

Math access point: recognize similarities and differences in size of common objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Food coloring gave our oobleck a genie-like tint this week!

 

 

 

 

 

It was fun to watch as it swirled around the tray or dripped off fingers!

Science access point: track objects in motion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hands were rinsed in Bath and Body Works jasmine-ginger scented water.

 

 

 

 

 

There was a letter A to find and 2 different scoops to use.

Math access point: recognize differences in sizes of containers that hold liquids.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of course, we used the matching lotion!

 

 

 

 

 

The scent was a little different and definitely intriguing to the students!

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

 

 

 

 

 

Most of the students liked the scent——-others not so much 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We remembered that there were fireworks in the movie Aladdin and since we had a big supply of bubble wrap, we decided to end our group with our own fireworks!

 

 

 

 

Whether in wheelchairs or rolling chairs…..

……….. the students had a BLAST 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made magic carpets!

First, they identified the shape of their cardboard (we used cut up cereal boxes).

Math access point: recognize objects with a two-dimensional shape.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then the student tore pieces of tissue paper. We gather our tissue from presents past, such as a recent baby shower 🙂

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The tissue paper was glued down.

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to or taken away from a situation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We decided our carpets needed a little sparkle, so it was time to “shake, shake, shake that glitter”!

 

 

 

 

 

Math access point: indicate desire for more of an action or object.

 

 

 

 

 

The students glued pictures of themselves on to the cardboard and…….

 

 

 

 

 

…….TA DA!!!!!!!!!!

 

Let’s go on a magic carpet ride!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday the students made magic lamps using this template: genie lamp

First, we identified the color of the genie.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, the students painted their lamps using gold paint. Thanks to our wonderful volunteer Kaley who cut out the cardboard, glued the paper printout to it, and then stapled it to paper cups so the lamps would stand up!

 

 

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

Next, polyester fiberfil was pulled apart and glued to the top of the lamp.

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ta-make a wish-Da!!!!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time to let the genies out of their lamps!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We’re back to making a tasty snack this week.  In honor of Aladdin, we made edible magic carpets!  Here is the recipe that we used: Let’s Make Edible Magic Carpets

We started by talking about what we were going to MAKE.  We discussed what “edible” means and our students had to convey that it is something that we can EAT.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The first thing we had to do was vote on a color for the magic carpets.  We decided to choose between yellow and blue: our school colors.  Each student voted and it was a tight race throughout. Since we had an even number of students and there was a tie, we had our Vision teacher make the tie-breaking choice.  Blue magic carpets.

 

 

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

We PUT a container of Cool Whip into a BOWL and added some drops of BLUE food coloring.  Each student HELPed STIR the Cool Whip.  We made observations about how it looked DIFFERENT once the food coloring was all mixed in.

 

 

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

 

 

 

 

Next, each student got one graham cracker to PUT on a PLATE.

They each got some of the blue Cool Whip and they had to SPREAD it to cover the graham cracker.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then we PUT multicolored sprinkles on a spoon and they SPRINKLED it all over the top.

 

 

 

 

 

They are almost too pretty to eat——ALMOST 🙂

 

 

What a magical week! Join us again for more fun and learning—-Group by Group!

And don’t forget to check your spam folder for your confirmation email if you want to follow us.

Feb24

Random Acts of Kindness

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Random Acts of Kindness

February 17 was National Random Acts of Kindness Day! Our students learned different ways they can be kind and thoughtful to others.

Our sensory boxes matched some of the examples shown in our book. The find motor groups made art projects that the language groups shared with others.

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

There were great ideas for presents in this box. We put a variety of little things that a kid might want to buy for a friend, such as toys, balloons, or beads.

 

 

 

We also put in some play money—-this was a big hit 🙂

Science access point: recognize a model of a real object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cards are always a nice gesture and even better when signed with hugs and kisses.

 

 

 

 

 

Hugs and kisses—-X’s and O’s—-were stamped into red moon sand.

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bright pink slime looked a little like gummy candy.

Little plastic “gummy bears” with the letters K for kind and C for candy added to the fun.

 

 

 

 

This was our first time using slime and the students were really intrigued!

 

Science access point: track objects in motion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This colorful box contained silk flower petals, leis, and 2 plush roses.

 

 

 

 

Definitely an eye catching box!

Math access point: recognize similarities and differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

With pasta and play food, there was a complete meal in this box 🙂 The pasta made lots of noise when the noodles were stirred!

 

 

 

 

We also included a small cup for empty/fill fun.

Science access point: recognize a model of a real object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yellow food coloring was added to shaving cream so students could make smiley faces.

 

 

 

 

It was really fun to see all the different designs!

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Students used a colorful scrubber to wash a toy car in our water play. A heart shaped measuring cup was perfect for rinsing off the shaving cream.

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize one way people use water.

 

 

 

 

 

We thought a floral scent was the perfect complement to this unit so we used Bath and Body Works plumeria.

 

 

 

 

 

It was a light scent to rub on hands, arms, or behind ears.

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made flowers using paper plates.

First, they identified the color of the flower stem and leaves.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then they chose a marker and began coloring their flowers.

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize a change in the appearance of an object.

 

 

 

 

 

After they finished coloring, they chose how many leaves they wanted and glued them on to the flower stem.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We made some beautiful flowers……….

……..to share with friends!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday we made some more flowers to share!

The students identified the color of the flowers.

 

 

 

 

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

 

Then they decorated their paper cup flower pots with stickers.

 

 

 

 

 

Each student had a variety to choose from.

Math access point: recognize when an object or person is added to a situation.

 

 

 

 

 

Next, they counted their flowers and inserted them in holes in the bottom of their cups. We used plastic straws for the stems.

 

 

 

 

 

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

TA—flower power—-DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

More flowers to share with friends.

These beautiful flowers……

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…….will certainly make someone’s day!

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We changed it up a little bit today in language group.  Instead of making an edible treat for ourselves, we decided to embrace the random acts of kindness and deliver the flowers we made in the fine motor group to staff around the school.

Each student got to choose WHO they wanted to give their flower to.  They used the yearbook from last year to indicate the staff member they wanted to give their flower to.

 

 

 

Once they had decided WHO, we set out to deliver our flowers.

 

 

 

 

Each student used a sentence strip that said “I want to give you this”.  Verbal students said each word while nonverbal students pointed to each word on the strip.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Staff who received flowers were so excited and happy!  Our random act of kindness made everyone feel good 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

Before leaving each staff member, the students used another sentence strip to convey “have a great day”.  We think from their reaction to the flowers that they did have a great day 🙂

 

 

 

Such a fun filled week that we hope inspires you to engage in some random acts of kindness. Don’t forget to check your spam folder for confirmation emails if you want to follow us.

We will be back next week with more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

Feb17

Oregon

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Oregon

February 14, 1859 Oregon became a state! The sensory groups explored boxes related to different facts about the state. The fine motor groups crafted Pinterest inspired art projects and the language group made a yummy snack with the state nut.

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Paper shred in the colors of the state flag made the base of this box. We included symbols and items associated with Oregon. A duck puppet represented the University of Oregon ducks. Wood processing, a major industry was represented by a piece of wood.

 

Our western meadowlark (the state bird) was motion sensitive and the students loved hearing it chirp!

 

Science access point: recognize a model of a real object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The letter O and some scoops were found in blue and yellow rice. There was also a map of Oregon at the bottom of the box.

 

 

 

 

The students also loved watching the grains of rice as they dropped from the spoons.

 

Science access point: track a falling object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Blue Mountains are a feature of Oregon. The students had fun molding their own blue mountains out of Floam. There were also a couple of laminated hikers to add to the scene.

 

 

 

 

The bright blue Floam was very eye catching!

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We found out that they have lots of mushroom festivals in Oregon—how cool is that! There were lots of mushrooms to find in this box of play dirt.

 

 

 

In addition to some laminated mushrooms, there were 3 pictures of mushrooms to find at the bottom of the box.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oregon may have gotten its name from the wild sage that grows there. We added some herbs of the not so wild kind to our play dough this week and included a cute duck cookie cutter.

 

 

It was also fun to poke, squeeze, and roll.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling makes an object move.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Students made circles or letter O in shaving cream this week.

 

 

 

 

 

We have been doing a lot of shaving cream lately, but the students always like it and its pretty inexpensive.

Science access point: demonstrate pushing away and pulling.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The oregon grape is the state flower, so we added some grape scented bubble bath to our water this week. There was 1 big duck and 3 little ducks swimming in our little pond along with different sized scoops.

 

 

 

To add to the fun, the ducks lit up when wet!

Math access point: recognize similarities and differences in size of common objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pears are the state fruit of Oregon, so we chose Bath and Body Works pear lotion this week. It was a nice fruity scent which the students liked.

 

 

 

 

The students chose to have the lotion applied to their hands, arms, ears, or neck.

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made lighthouses out of paper cups!

First, they identified the color of the cup using communication symbols. Since the alternate assessment testing will be starting soon we had the students pick from an array of 3 answers which is similar to the testing format.

 

 

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

Then, they cut 1 piece of paper into  halves using a paper cutter.

 

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize parts of whole objects and parts of sets of objects.

 

 

 

 

The 2 strips of paper and a paper door were then glued to the cup.

 

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

 

 

 

A small battery operated tea light was put on top.

Math access point: identify spatial relationships.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Let there be light!

 

 

 

 

On Thursday the students made beaver masks using paper plates.

First, they identified the shape of the paper plate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape.

 

 

 

 

 

Then they painted their plates with brown paint.

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize a change in the appearance of an object.

 

 

 

 

 

Pre-made ears and muzzles were added.

 

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We love the beaver state!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

Since hazelnuts are one of the state foods of Oregon, we made a recipe using Nutella!  Here’s the recipe we used: Let’s Make A Banana Nutella Smoothie

We started out by PUTTING 2 frozen cut up bananas into the blender.  Before we PUT them in, though, each student got to touch the bag of frozen bananas.  They indicated whether it felt COLD or HOT.

 

Science access point: recognize an object as warm or cold.

 

 

 

 

Next, we PUT 2 cups of milk into the blender.  The students were shown a cup and a tablespoon.  They had to identify which one could hold MORE milk.

 

Math access point: recognize differences in sizes of containers that hold liquids.

 

 

 

 

 

We PUT 2 tablespoons of Nutella in the blender next.  Again, the students were shown a cup and a tablespoon and were told to identify which could hold LESS since we did not need as much of the Nutella as we did the milk.

Before we added the Nutella, the students got to taste a sample—-they liked it!

Math access point: recognize similarities and differences in size of common objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we PUT some cocoa mix into the blender.  We got to smell the cocoa mix and our students indicated whether they thought it smelled GOOD or BAD.

 

Science access point: recognize and respond to one type of sensory stimuli.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Each student got to HELP TURN on the blender by activating the wireless switch.

Science access point: observe and recognize a predictable cause-effect relationship related to a science topic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once the ingredients were smooth, each student had to request a cup by indicating that they WANTED some.

If they were not given a lot, they had to indicate that they wanted MORE.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We learned so much about Oregon this week! Join us again next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

Don’t forget to check your SPAM folder for your confirmation email if you want to follow us.

Feb10

Peacekeepers

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Peacekeepers

We learned about Nobel Prize winners this week. This complements our student’s Unique Curriculum unit this month. The sensory group explored boxes with a variety of themes. The fine motor group made peace symbols and the language group made Peace Pizza!

 

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

The Nobel Prize is made out of gold. A circle cookie cutter matched the shape of the medal and our gold kinetic sand moves like molten gold!

 

 

 

 

Our students love this stuff—-and so do we!

Math access point: recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes, such as a circle.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Students loved twisting chenille stems into rainbows, peace symbols, or their own original designs.

 

 

 

 

 

Soft, bendable, bright, colorful—-a definite hit!

Science access point: recognize that pushing or pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rainbow rice represented the Rainbow Nation of Nelson Mandela. The colorful rice was very eye catching and there were different sized spoons and cups for scooping fun.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize similarities and differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Malala, the youngest prize winner, is from the country of Pakistan. We learned that they drink green tea there, so we filled her box with some green tea leaves.

 

 

 

 

This was the first time we have used this tea and our students found the aroma and texture of the tea very interesting. There was a scoop, small pot, and a picture of Malala in the box.

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to or taken away from a situation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Students sorted red and white pompoms—–the colors of the Polish flag. Lech Walesa, another Nobel Prize winner, came from Poland.

 

 

 

 

Math access point: identify items that belong together to form a set.

 

 

 

 

The students were encouraged to draw circles—like a peace sign or Nobel Prize medal—in shaving cream.

 

 

 

 

 

Of course, most of them simply enjoyed the experience!

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then again, some of them were a little more tentative 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There were foam letters forming the word P E A C E in this week’s water play.

 

 

 

 

 

There were also a selection of funnels and scoops for pouring

Math access point: recognize differences in sizes of containers that hold liquids.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Martin Luther King came from our neighboring state of Georgia. We chose Georgia peach as our scent and the students really liked the sweet aroma.

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday we made a Claddagh picture in honor of Irish Nobel Prize winner Betty Williams.

First, we discussed the shape of our paper and identified it using communication symbols.

Math access point: recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students glued a heart in the MIDDLE of the paper.

Next, they glued a crown at the TOP of the heart.

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship.

 

 

 

 

 

Then, the students got to pick what paint they wanted to use.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We squeezed a little paint into the students’ hands and asked them to rub them together to spread the paint around. Ms. Michelle and Ms. Joi came up with the idea of putting paint in old soap containers—-brilliant!

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Their picture was taped to an old oatmeal container which we handed to them, asking them to “squeeze it tight”.

 

 

 

 

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

An Irish symbol of peace,

loyalty, and love.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday, the students made a peace sign symbol using this template: peace sign

First, the students identified the color of their background paper. We chose this color because we had a lot of it and wanted to use it up 🙂

 

 

 

 

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

Then, the students chose a marker and began decorating their peace sign.

Science access point: recognize a change in the appearance of an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They also used craft foam stamps and ink to decorate the peace sign. We attached the stamps to plastic thread spools to make them easier to grasp.

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship, such as up and down.

 

 

 

 

The peace signs were glued to the background paper and——–TA DA!!

 

 

 

 

 

We thank the PEACEKEEPERS!

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a yummy peace pizza for this week’s language group.  Here is the recipe that we used: Let’s Make A Peace Pizza

We started by talking about the shape of the pizza pan.  We observed that the pan we were using was a circle and the pan in the picture on the book was a rectangle.  Those shapes are DIFFERENT.

Math access point: recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes, such as a circle.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We had a student HELP open the Boboli pizza crust and PUT it on the pan.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, a couple of our students HELPed PUT pizza sauce on top.  We had to SPREAD it out so that it covered the top of the pizza crust.

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

 

 

 

 

 

Our students got to HELP SPRINKLE some cheese, making sure that it also covered the top.

Math access point: solve problems involving small quantities of objects or actions using language, such as enough, too much, or more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we had one of our students HELP PUT the pepperoni into the shape of a peace symbol.

He did a great job!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once the pizza was ready, we talked about where we would PUT it so that it could heat up.  Students located OVEN on their boards. After the pizza was done cooking, we talked about how it was HOT.

After it cooled off a bit it was time to EAT!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We cut the pizza and everyone shared it, just like peacekeepers!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yum!!!

 

 

 

Join us next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

Also, don’t forget to check your SPAM folder for your confirmation email if you plan to follow us.

Feb3

Australia

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Australia

G’day mate! January 26 is Australia Day so this week we learned about that “down under” country! The sensory groups explored boxes related to facts about the country. The fine motor groups crafted symbols of the country and the language group made a favorite Australian dessert—-pavlova!

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Since they are the national colors of Australia, we used yellow and green paper shred as the base of this box. We added some plush and plastic animals, such as the koala, kangaroo, and crocodile.

 

 

There was also some fake sheep wool and pictures of famous Australians. We even included a voice output device with a didgeridoo recorded on it.

Science access point: recognize a model of a real object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our green and yellow rice contained some black bean “coal”. We learned that Australia is the world’s largest producer of coal!

 

 

 

There were upper and lower case letter A’s to find in the rice, as well as a map of the country at the bottom of the box.

Science access point: match objects by an observable property, such as shape.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ayers Rock is called Uluru by aboriginal Australians. Our red mood sand resembled the color of the world’s largest monolith.

 

 

 

 

There were 5 snakes and a 1 lizard that might be found there.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The world’s larges coral reef is located in Australia. Our Great Barrier Reef umbrella was a hit with the students. They also liked the plush “great white shark” puppet!

 

 

 

 

Science access point: match living things with their habitats.

 

 

 

 

Kinetic sand made a perfect “Bondi Beach”!

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students loved watching the sand drop through their fingers or using the sea life molds to stamp in it.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Students mixed cornstarch and shaving cream to make “meringue” pavlovas!

 

 

 

 

 

It was messy, but the students really loved the soft cool texture!

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lake Hillier is a PINK lake—-how cool is that!! This cool pink bowl was a perfect stand in for the lake but since it was a little “tippy”, we put it inside a regular basin to avoid any accidental or not so accidental spills 🙂

 

 

There were some pool noodle pieces and a scoop to add to the fun.

Math access point: recognize differences in sizes of containers that hold liquids.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bath and Body Works eucalyptus scent was a perfect scent for out little koalas this week!

 

 

 

 

 

The strong scent certainly got everyones attention!

Science access point: recognize and respond to one type of sensory stimuli.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made kangaroo puppets using this template: kangaroo

First, they identified the color BROWN from an array of 3 colors. All of the students identified the correct color—-our students rock!!!

 

 

 

 

Science access point: identify an object by one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

Next, the students used brown crayons to color their kangaroos.

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize a change in the appearance of an object.

 

 

 

 

Then, we added 2 googlie eyes.

Math access point: match one object to a designated space to show one-to one correspondence.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

The kangaroo is a symbol of Australia!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday the students made a didgeridoo out of a paper towel tube.

First, the students chose their paper and identified the color.

Science access point: identify an object by one observable property, such as color.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, they drew lines and shapes using markers.

 

 

 

 

 

It was fun seeing the different patterns each student chose!

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, they cut their paper into strips using paper cutters or switch operated scissors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize a change in the appearance of an object.

 

 

 

 

 

The students then shared their strips with each other and began wrapping them around their

tubes. We fastened them down with tape, but glue would work too.

Science access point: share objects with a partner.

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Look at our fabulous didgeridoos!

These were a hit 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a tasty popular Australian dessert today–pavlova cake.  Well, we made our own rendition of it.  Here is a link to the recipe: lets make mini pavlova cakes

 

First, we PUT 1 cup of whipping cream into a BOWL.  We compared a cup with a tablespoon.  Our students were asked to indicate the BIGGER one.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once the cream was in the bowl, we observed that it was a liquid.  The students were told to watch and see if it became DIFFERENT after it was mixed.  Each student took TURNS pressing the switch to activate the mixer.

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize changes in observable properties of materials.

 

 

 

 

 

We observed that the liquid became a solid.  Next, we added a tsp of vanilla.  We compared a teaspoon with a tablespoon and asked our students to identify the SMALLER one.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we PUT a tbsp of confectioners’ sugar into the bowl.  Each student got to taste some of the sugar.  They had to indicate whether it tasted SWEET or SOUR.

 

 

Science access point: recognize and respond to one type of sensory stimuli.

 

 

 

 

Once that was all mixed up we started PUTTING together our pavlova.  On the recipe, we saw that the cake was put together like a math equation.  First, each student got a meringue cookie.  Next, we added just a little bit of the whipped cream.  Each student had to say if they WANTED MORE.

 

 

Math access point: indicate more of an action or an object.

 

 

 

 

Finally, we added some strawberries.  Only one piece of strawberry was given to each student and they had to request MORE if they wanted more.

It turned out to be a really pretty dessert!

 

 

 

 

We sure learned a lot about Australia this week! Join us next time for more fun and learning—-Group by Group!

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