What a Week!

We had a very busy and productive week in Grade 2 Dynamite! We started the week with "Barter Bags". The boys put into practice what they have been learning about barter and trade as they negotiated with each other to acquire items from a list of needs and wants. Some boys had lots of needed items, while other boys had lots of wants items, while others had a mix. It was interesting to see how they negotiated and came up with strategies to meet their needs. Conor and Benjamin F. ended up the two "wealthiest" boys at the end of the session, and their strategies of trade served them well. Statistically, there was a representation across the room that echoed what we discussed about distribution of wealth in the world.
On Tuesday, Mr. Don Lowen arrived with 200 eyed Chum salmon eggs. The boys were so excited to meet "their babies". We will be caring for them and tracking their growth over the next 3 months.
On Wednesday, we held Market Day. After reading a story about markets, we brainstormed all of the things that happen at a market and set the parameters for our own market. Boys then worked to create a product, decide on a price and begin producing the items they hoped to sell. We then set up market stalls, got our wallets filled with money, and went about the business of buying and selling. Items for sale ranged from "dead fresh salmon" to "webkinz" to "dragon eggs" to "carrots" and more! The room was bustling and humming as boys bought, sold, wheeled and dealed. Many boys learned that creative advertising and good prices mean good sales. Others were stumped by why there was not much demand for their product.
Today we made a rainbow with soil - who knew soil could be so colorful! Mrs. Besharah came to share some of her expertise with us and helped us to examine the layers of soil. We did a very cool experiment with soil and water and are now observing the results as we wait to see what happens as the soil settles into is layers.
Enjoy the photos - I think the pictures speak louder than my words!