Yes, We Felt the Earthquake!

Wow! The group I was with this evening was in a small building doing a quiet activity on Astronomy when the building began to shake and things on the walls rattled. It wasn't but a few minutes later that I began receiving text messages informing me that what we felt was an earthquake with the epicenter about 12 miles from Saco, Maine! The kids were pretty excited that they had "survived" the earthquake.
We then walked down to the beach to observe some constellations, continuing our Astronomy lesson. I am happy to report that no tsunami was spotted! But we did spot some "stars in the sand" or dinoflagellates, that light up when stimulated by digging. The kids are now tucked in bed with more experiences and stories to tell.

Day 2 is Underway

Well, we were not greeted by a beautiful sunrise over Saco Bay this morning as we have in years passed. However the rain showers have stopped, the clouds are breaking up and day 2 is underway. This morning for breakfast we began with cereal, then moved on to pancakes, sausages, and strawberries. Soon after we boarded the buses for the twenty minute ride to Biddeford to explore the tidepools. The kids had a great time and are currently enjoying some free-time. Soon we will go to the dining hall for lunch.

Good Night Ferrry Beach

After the kids came back from their afternoon lesson, many enjoyed some time on the beach or the volleyball court. We then were treated to a dinner of Tacos and all the fixings, along with cornbread and salad. This evening's lesson was Marine Lab where they learned about all the different marine life they may encouter tomorrow at the Biddeford Tide Pools.Currently they are tucked into their beds with hopes of a good night sleep. Day 1 has come to a close. Good night from Ferry Beach.

Safe Arrival

We made a safe arrival around 10:15. The kids have moved into their new rooms, had a practice fire drill and enjoyed a delicious lunch. On the menu was salad, clam chowder, turkey sandwich on homemade bread, and chips. The kids devoured their lunch and many at my tablehad never tried clam chowder. They loved it! Currently they are on their first lesson, The ABC's of Ecology where they will learn about Abiotic and Biotic factors and Cycles. I will upload the pictures of their smiling faces later when there is more time...and internet service. So far....so good!

 

Welcome to the Fall 2012 5th Grade Ecology School Blog! I hope your children are all packed and excited for our departure to Ferry Beach tomorrow morning.  The long range forecast for Saco, Maine looks favorable...see the link http://www.accuweather.com/en/us/saco-me/04072/daily-weather-forecast/338525

In class this week, we created a song in the unlikely event students experience any symptoms of homesickness. Look at the videos to see a sample of their songs. I think you will agree they had fun!

What an Amazing Week!

We are all packed! The students are on their final lesson called "Connections" that will bring together all they have learned throughout this amazing week. We will have an early lunch today at 11:30. Our buses are due to arrive at that time as well. After we eat lunch, we will load the buses and be on our way back to Rowley. Our scheduled departure time is 12:30 from Ferry Beach.

The weather this week has been outstanding, the kids have been great, and we had just an amazing week! See you soon Rowley!

Friday Morning - create a slideshow with music

Last Good Night From Ferry Beach

We are mostly packed for our return tomorrow. The kids here are amazed at how quickly the week flew by. Some are mixed about tomorrow's departure...most can't wait to see their families again, but they also don't want to leave. They have had a good week.

The morning will be busy, rolling up sleeping bags and moving our luggage out before breakfast. But for now, some kids are quietly chatting, some reading in bed, and many are already asleep. Our last full day at Ferry Beach has come to a close. Good night for now. Stay tuned for at least one final post tomorrow.