Tag Archives: Special Education

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!

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

 

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!

If you want to follow us, don’t forget to check your SPAM folder for your confirmation email.

Jan27

Movies We Love

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Movies We Love

January 19 was National Popcorn Day so we couldn’t pass up an opportunity to do another movie theme—they are just so much fun! Our sensory groups explored colorful movie themed boxes. The fine motor groups made cartoon character art projects and the language group got to be movie critics!

 

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Students searched for letter M’s to find in this box of popcorn kernels.

The students loved the feel of the kernels running through their hands!

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lots of fun movie themed items could be found in this box. There were some plastic and plush characters from movies in this box including Winnie the Pooh and Toy Story.

Since it is fun to eat a snack during movies, we put in a popcorn box and some play food.

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

For our Peter Pan box, we put in a Captain Hook figure and a crocodile cookie cutter.

 

 

 

 

 

The green kinetic sand was especially eye catching and so much fun to explore!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We thought these potato flakes resembled the look and feel of sawdust. They are soft but have a crunch quality—-very intriguing!

 

 

 

 

 

In addition to the various circus figures, there was a spoon for scooping fun.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Follow the Yellowbrick Road was recorded on a voice output device to go along with Wizard of Oz discovery bottles.

The students had fun finding “ruby slippers” and “witchy shoes” in one of the bottles.

 

 

Glittery swirls in both bottles were mesmerizing and a huge hit with all the students this week!

Science access point: track objects in motion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Insta-Snow filled our Frozen box. The students were intrigued with the snow, not only is it fun to sift through fingers but actually FEELS cool—-just like the real thing!

 

 

 

 

Of course, we included some fun figures and a little scoop!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Both Dory and Nemo could be found swimming around our little ocean this week. Not only were the colorful fish very eye catching but, they wiggled when strings were pulled!

 

 

 

Lots of fun with this splashy box!

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We used Bath and Body Works “be enchanted” scent this week….. because doesn’t everyone want to be enchanted when they go the movies!

The students are encouraged to use the Pixon communication boards to indicate WHERE they want the lotion.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday, the students made Troll wigs using these templates: boy troll  girl troll

First, the students identified the color of their paper wig. We used PURPLE paper for the girl wigs and BLUE for the boy’s.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then they used textured paint rollers to apply glue to the wigs. The rollers didn’t work quite as well as we had hoped, but the students still enjoyed using them.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

The students used either BLACK or PURPLE glitter on their wigs. Everybody sang the glitter song of course! In case you are new to the blog, we sing “shake, shake, shake that glitter” to the tune of that old KC and the Sunshine band song 🙂

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                              Such cute hair!

Such cute Trolls!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday the students made Dalmatians using this template: dalmatian

First, they identified the color of the ink and the shape of the stamp they were using.

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

Next, the students stamped UP and DOWN to make spots on their Dalmatians. We made the stamps by adhering sticky back craft foam circles to sewing thread spools. The size of the spools makes them easy to grip for our students.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Then they glued their Dalmatians DOWN on to a piece of red construction paper.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

TA—-spotty—–DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We have 101 Dalmatians!

Well, almost 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We changed things up a little bit this week.  Although we still had food (we HAD to have some popcorn), our students didn’t participate in the making of any food.

Instead, our students acted as movie critics.  Each student had a chance to request to watch a movie clip from one of the movies from our book.

 

 

 

 

They had to use the sentence strip that was provided to say “I want to watch” and then they had to point to the movie they wanted to see.

 

 

 

 

The movie clips weren’t longer then about 2 1/2 minutes.  After the clip ended, each student had a chance to indicate that they thought the movie was good and they liked it, or they thought the movie was bad and they didn’t like it.

 

 

 

We used a voice output device that the students used to indicate if it was good or bad.

 

 

 

 

 

After watching the movies, our critics’ outcome was that the best movie out of all of the movies was Sherlock Gnomes, but there were 2 close seconds–Toy Story and Finding Dory.

We noticed that once we were all done, the room looked a little bit like a movie theatre with all the popcorn on the ground 🙂

 

 

 

 

Join us again 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 want to follow us.

 

Jan20

Chocolate

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Chocolate

January 10 is Bittersweet Chocolate Day so this week we are all about CHOCOLATE! Our sensory groups explored chocolate themed boxes. The fine motor groups painted some sweet art projects and the language group made a very tasty chocolate treat! The students are learning about properties of matter with their Unique Curriculum this month and this unit complemented it quite nicely.

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Chocolate comes from the cocoa bean. We didn’t have any cocoa beans on hand, so we substituted with coffee beans—-they look pretty similar.

 

 

 

 

 

The students searched for letter C’s in the beans.

Science access point: recognize objects that are identical to each other.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pompoms were sorted into either a cute heart shaped candy tin for the BROWN chocolate ones  or a white “candy dish” for the WHITE chocolate ones.

Of course, sometimes it was fun just to grab a handful and enjoy the pompoms’ soft and squishy texture!

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

Our chocolate scented play dough was pretty realistic looking AND smelling!

The adults definitely kept a close eye on things with this box 🙂 The students cut “chocolate donuts” or made their own candy creations.

 

 

 

 

There was also a pastry wheel that made some fun patterns in the play dough.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chocolate cake mix made perfect cloud dough! It was fun to scoop, mold, or squeeze through fingers.

 

 

 

 

A little messy, but a really fun sensory experience that smelled good too! The students were really intrigued with this box!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We wanted to add a little bit of color to this unit, so we brought out our colorful candy colored rice. There were some “cocoa” beans to find as well as play food candy, chocolate, and two different sized cookies. This rice was really eye catching!

 

 

Underneath the rice were pictures of chocolate candy.

Science access point: recognize the larger of two objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A little cocoa powder added to oobleck made for a fun chocolate river.

 

 

 

 

 

 

This was really MESSY but really FUN 🙂

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There was a little teapot and water wheel in our water basin this week.

 

 

 

 

 

Once the first student rinsed their hands, our water play turned into a chocolate fountain!

Science access point: recognize water as a liquid.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We couldn’t find any chocolate scented lotion, so we used a chocolate scented LipSmacker to apply our signature scent to wrists or behind ears.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made candy apples using purchased craft foam apple shapes!

First, they identified the color of their apples.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We mixed a little glue with the brown paint and painted our apples. The popsicle stick already taped to the apple made it easy to hold.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Then, we added some confetti sprinkles (the glue in the paint helped make sure it stuck) and of course, we sang our glitter song 🙂

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

TA—-yummy—-DA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Candy apples………

……they look good enough to eat!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday the students made chocolate chip cookies using paper plates.

First, they identified the shape of paper plate.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Then, they painted their paper plates with brown paint.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Next, the students let us know how many chocolate chips they wanted on their cookie.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The pre-cut chips were added and the glue we had added to the paint helped them stick.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time for cookies!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We got to make a nice and chocolatey treat this week for language group.  This week we made chocolate mousse using this recipe:  let_s make chocolate mousse

**Words in caps are the words targeted on their communication boards**

We started out by talking about how we were going to MAKE chocolate mousse.

The first thing we did was PUT a box of instant chocolate pudding mix into the BOWL.  Whichever student WANTed to HELP had to raise their hand and indicate HELP on their board.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we PUT 2 tbsp of cocoa powder into the BOWL.  Each student had to identify the tablespoon when presented with a cup and a tablespoon.  They were told that the tablespoon was the LITTLE one.  We talked about how using the wrong kitchen tool could ruin the recipe.

 

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

 

 

 

 

For the final ingredient (only 3 ingredients…yay!) we PUT some heavy cream into the BOWL.  This time, the students were presented with a cup and a 1/2 cup.

They were told to identify the BIG one.

 

 

Math access point: recognize a half of an object as part of the whole object.

 

 

 

 

Each student got a chance to press the switch to make the mixer TURN.  Our mousse formed really fast, so each student just got a little chance to press the switch.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

When it was ready, each student got a small amount of mousse and no spoon.  They had to indicate that they needed a SPOON and that they wanted MORE.

 

 

 

We think we’d all like to do a chocolate theme each week 🙂

 

 

 

 

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

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Jan13

The 1950’s

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The 1950’s

To start the new year, we decided to take a look back——–WAY back, all the way to the 1950’s! The sensory groups explored boxes related to different facts from the decade. The fine motor groups made some cool art projects and the language group made a 1950’s inspired recipe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

We put the numbers 1 9 5 0 in this rice box. In addition to running their fingers through the rice, the students had fun scooping it up and adding it to a small metal cup.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our outer space black beans and rice contained our nod to NASA which was started in 1958.

There was a cool rocket toy that had a spinning astronaut and flashing lights when the button was pushed.

 

 

 

Science access point: distinguish between objects in motion (kinetic energy) and at rest.

 

 

 

 

 

Disney Land and the Mickey Mouse Club tv show both had their start in 1955.

There were lots of fun things to find in this box, including Disney character figures, colorful beads, and a VOD that had the Mickey Mouse song recorded on it.

 

Social studies access point: recognize a character in a story that is not real.

 

 

 

 

 

Elvis had a hit with the song Heartbreak Hotel in 1956.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students made both BIG and LITTLE hearts in red moon sand.

Math access point: recognize the larger of two objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TV dinners were first introduced in 1953. Since they had foil trays and covers, we thought it would be fun to have a box with a foil. This space blanket was the perfect choice.

 

 

 

 

It was fun to throw up in the air and made a fun crackling noise when crunched—–it was a huge hit with the students!

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

A couple more photos—–this was a really fun experience for the students!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sir Edmund Hilary and Tenzing Norgay made it to the top of Mount Everest in 1953.

 

 

 

 

 

The students swirled snowy shaving foam around a laminated mountain top for messy play this week.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20000 League Under the Sea was a movie released in 1954.

 

 

 

 

 

Our water play contained a little submarine and a variety of sea animals—-including a giant squid!

Science access point: match living things with their habitats.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hawaii became the 50th state in 1959! This inspired us to use Bath and Body Works pineapple as our scent this week.

 

 

 

 

The sweet aroma was a big hit with the students.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made Mount Everest models and then put themselves on the mountain using this template: mountain climber template

First, the students identified the shape of their poster board mountain. They also identified the shape of a tissue box that would be used for the project.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Then they added “snow” (a mixture of glue and shaving cream) to their triangle.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Next, they put themselves on to the mountain. Since there was glue in our snow mixture, we didn’t need extra glue!

The mountain was hot glued (by an adult) on to the tissue box to help it stand up and…..

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA from the top of the world!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We climbed Mount Everest!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday the students gave themselves a new look using this: elvis hair template

First, the students identified the color of the yarn we were going to use for the project.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Then, using regular, adapted, or switch operated scissors, the students snipped pieces of yarn.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Glue spreaders were used to spread glue around the black poster board hair template and applied their pieces of yarn.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

TA—-Elvis—- DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t tread on our blue suede shoes!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a yummy treat that was popular in the ’50s: jello salad!  Here is the recipe that we used: let_s make blueberry vanilla jello salad

(The words that are capitalized are the targeted words on the communication boards)

We started by talking about how we were going to MAKE a jello salad, noting that this type of salad is DIFFERENT from the salad that we usually eat.

First, we PUT a box of vanilla instant pudding mix into a BOWL.  One of our students indicated they WANTed to HELP by raising their hand and indicating HELP.

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we PUT vanilla yogurt into the BOWL.  We had 2 students HELP with this since the container was big.  We had to STIR the ingredients together.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After that, we PUT cool whip in and STIRRED that together as well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we added some blueberries and STIRRED those in, first talking about how the bag of frozen blueberries felt COLD.

 

 

 

 

We LOOKed at the ingredients and saw that the color was becoming DIFFERENT, going from white to a purple color.

 

 

 

 

Each student had to request some of the jello salad by indicating WANT.  They were only given a small amount, so they had to request MORE if they wanted more than what they got.  A spoon was not given to them either, which prompted them to request a SPOON as well.

 

 

 

We’re thinking these kiddos really LIKED their ’50s treat!  What do you think?  🙂

 

 

 

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

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