Flywheelers

We had a fabulous time at Flywheelers on Tuesday.  We were blessed with wonderful weather, getting only 10 minutes of rain, which conveniently came while we were under cover!  The rumbling thunder made us worried for a bit, but everything quickly blew over. 

Students gained an appreciation for life in the past, and how difficult even the most basic of chores were.  They learned that pumping water, carrying water, and hauling firewood would have been their daily chores.  Thankfully, the fly wheel came along and started making life a bit easier. 

A highlight of the day was when we got to see Miss Nancy and her border collies.  She has trained Jenny and Kallie to herd sheep, and she can even get them to do a "slalom course" out in the pasture.  We also got to see her new puppy, Ziggy, whose exuberance and zest for life was hilarious.

Students also really enjoyed the blacksmith, who made a horse's head out of a rod of iron.  He is pretty talented, we all agreed.

Students learned about early logging and were encouraged to be stewards for Michigan forests.

Students pose in front of the threshing machine.  This machine simplified the process of removing the waste part of the wheat from the edible part.

This gentleman is branding the shingles with a red-hot iron.

Our first field trip

On the very first day of school, we took a field trip to the college, which is conveniently located right next door to us!  We were there to visit the DTE energy trailer, to learn about different types of renewable energy sources.  The students had fun playing an interactive energy game on the computer, building solar cars out of legos, and designing their own windmills. 

While we waited for our turn in the trailer, we admired the many sculptures on NCMC's campus.  Check out our great pictures!

Our First Week

Hello!

Our first week at school was terrific!  The first hour or so was a bit unusual thanks to the lock down, but the kids handled it great.  They are settling in to our routines and getting to know us, as we are getting to know them.

This is the first time I have used a blog at school, so please let me know if you have ideas to improve its quality and usefulness.  I plan to use the blog for frequent updates about our classroom, posting pictures, and hearing from you.  My main intended audience is Sheridan fourth grade parents, but your kids are welcome to read and respond as well!  Please be patient with me as I try out this new tool.

Cari Olson