Second graders at Rhame Avenue shared their knowledge of animal adaptations with special guests on May 8 in a special multi-layered experience that included music, art, science and poetry. 

Family members were invited into the two second grade classrooms, and the presentations began with an introduction from the students. Guests were then asked to join their student to listen to a haiku each child had created about their animal of study. Teachers reviewed the key components of haiku, and guests were encouraged to write one with their second grader, making sure to count the correct number of syllables.

Following the haiku activity, parents were seated, and each student stood before the class to share a poster they had made of their animal and a unique fact about how that animal has adapted to its environment. Each student wore a t-shirt that they had decorated themselves with a detailed illustration of their animal of study.

The capstone of the presentation was a performance of a song about animal adaptations and habitats, after which family members took photos, and the students thanked them for coming.

The animal adaptation presentation exemplified Project-Based Learning, a cornerstone of East Rockaway’s teaching approach. Through this approach, students are asked to respond to a question, problem or challenge and to choose the focus of their study. They then investigate their topic and present their findings publicly. This approach to learning allows students to engage in meaningful, real-world projects.

It was an enriching morning for guests and students alike, and a chance for the second graders to proudly share their knowledge with their families.