Visitors from Joanna's class

We had visitors from Joanna's class this afternoon, who came to give a quick presentation on the physics of sky lanterns (specifically, how and why they go up). We'll be using them this Friday as part of an end-of-2013 school wide event.

Go see The Odyssey!

I hope everyone is planning to see The Odyssey! I saw it on Thursday and it was delightful. 

It must be seen in person, so this is the only photo I could post that wouldn't give anything away... Saturday is the last night! 

Building the building blocks

We've been studying genetics as part of our exploration of the theme of Identity. Today, we made models of the DNA molecule. It was occasionally challenging, as you can see here by Sydney's face...

Art portraits

We've spent the last few sessions of Art creating portraits. Take a look at the familiar faces!

Scenes from Monday

We hit the ground running today after the long holiday weekend. Here's a quick look at a hectic and productive Monday: 

Danny has been tasked with a math problem: What is the most efficient way to package these golf balls, using the least amount of packaging possible?

This afternoon was devoted to a full rehearsal of our play, which took over the lunchroom and the middle school commons. 

Those not in the play spent the afternoon working with Dr. George on the greenhouse project. Today was spent preparing and starting work on the compost furnace that will heat the greenhouse in the winter. 

Installing the ground cover involved an honest-to-goodness story problem straight out of a Singapore Math book.  

Measure twice, cut once. 

Installing the liner...

Back indoors, Evan was recruited to construct assorted props for the play. 

Finally, though the Gaga pit has been stored away for the season, some kids weren't quite ready to let go: 

Block prints

The first round of block prints are in, and they're really cool! 

Works in progress...

The final products: 

Morning Assembly: Play Rehearsal

...And we're back! 

After what was hopefully a fun and restorative long weekend, we're back at school. We kicked off this morning with an all-school assembly , rehearsing a scene from The Odyssey. 

Opening night is Thursday!