Tectonic Plates are only a theory

aka So That's What Happened to Atlantis!

aka I Don't Think this is how 6th Grade Girls would approach a Group Project

Ah, the group project! That chance to work with others, to see leaders emerge, to learn cooperation, to produce a thing of . . . interest?

I will say they've been working hard. Last Sunday, with Aidan's Dad they built and painted the base and paper-mache'd a beach ball. Last Monday (teacher work day) with Logan's Mom they did a "prototype" of the core and discovered that cream of tarter is essential to the playdough recipe. This Saturday, it was my turn to host. All parents felt it would be good if the boys could bring this project to an end. At one point, I said, "Whose house are you guys going to tomorrow?" and Logan said, "Oh, That's just cruel!" I spent my time fetching sharpies, paint, food . . . . . . and saying, "who is doing what right now?"

So . . . after a couple of false starts and re-gessoing, the plates were drawn, painted and labeled. There was a lot of concern about getting them right, but it wasn't going perfectly and that's when one of the boys reminded the others that "tectonic plates are only a THEORY!" Oh, yeah! So there is no *right.* OK. Good enough.

A good batch of playdough was produced. The core was rendered in cardboard. The earth was stuffed with bags and newpapers and the core was . . . somewhat anchored. And then they began on all the extras . . . a little laptop action, some clay, some index cards . . . . and . . . it had been 4.5 hours and I just had to SEND THEM OUTSIDE to wait for their rides!!! They'll be back Monday after school to create those finishing touches. Nice boys -- prone to running around, flinging stuff, goofing off, and yet concerned with getting it done.

Comments

[doris.sander]

LOVE that your boys are so INVOLVED. that's awesome! :D