We are studying the earth, the placement of the continents and the energy sources necessary to power our lives on planet earth.
Bounce, and his friends, have created their own world powered by an outer space solar energy gathering machine entitled “The Beam Machine.”
We started our study of the earth and the continents by doing numerous jigsaw puzzles. As Bounce spent time with each puzzle he was able to recognize the variations in geography, topography, climate and lifestyle customary for each region.
Adventure Bear proved to be particularly adept at puzzle making. We like this puzzle series by Ravensburger (Family Puzzle #13 464 9). The box contains 4 puzzles of earth, each with varying number of pieces and each mapping a different element: animals, peoples, vegetation and politics. When combined they form a composite view of our world.
Next Bounce created his own map of the world. He studied various Atlases and found that the world can be diagrammed in multiple ways, each showing a different aspect of planet earth. Here he is studying time zones.
Making a Bounce-sized map of South America gave him the opportunity to study every contour as well as the mountain regions, political divisions and river systems. We like the Rand McNally Schoolhouse Intermediate edition of the World Atlas.
What study of geography would be complete without creating our own version of the world? We used an old round tablecloth (plenty of pre-existing stains) as the “globe.” Bounce drew the continents and then painted the land and the sea.
The hope of a secure and livable world lies with disciplined nonconformists who are dedicated to justice, peace and brotherhood.
Let The Sun Shine In
Now that Bounce has the world in his hands, it is time for him to understand our energy resources. After studying various fossils fuels and non-renewable energy sources, Bounce decided to concentrate on learning more about solar power.
Bounce created a poster board to illustrate current solar technology and also depict an alternative technology that could connect with current electric grids to enhance the use of solar power.
He included his luminaries to illuminate his life sized solar energy prototype.
Here is his world and electrified urban skyline powered by imaginary solar power technology, The Beam Machine.
Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.
Let Me Count the Days: Homeschooling is imagining the impossible and building the dream in our minds and hearts.
Filed under: Art, Community Service, Contests, Current Events, Geography, Science, Science/Math, Theater, World Awareness | Tagged: education, family puzzle, geography art projects, homeschool, homeschooling, kids solar science projects, renewable energy sources, world atlas | 1 Comment »
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