The second grade students are learning about the process of
tapping trees. Due to the creative and
thoughtful preparation for this science unit, students were able to experience
the process firsthand.
Gathering up
their tools the class headed out front to tap a few maple trees. Using an old fashion bit and brace they
drilled a hole, pounded a spile into the tree, and then hung their
buckets. In less than 24 hours the
students collected almost five gallons of sap. Using a crock pot they are boiling off the water and witnessing the
process of sap turn into maple syrup.
While the unit encompasses a great deal of reading and writing,
incorporating hands on experience like this is teaching and learning at its best.