Another blog challenge

This week students need to do some writing. Using the web site "Kid's Poetry Page"(from our link list), create a story or poem on the background of your choice. Try printing it out or copying it down so you can turn in for a reward! I can't wait to read what you have done!!

Weekly Blog Challenge!

Every Tuesday, look for the next blog challenge. This weekly question will be about something from our blog site. It can be investigated at home, the library, or during free moments at school. All responses from the week are due by the following Monday morning. Correct answers will be rewarded! Be sure to become a follower of "The Room" so you'll be in the loop to new additions to our site. Happy hunting!!

Be like the King: Make some glue!

After reading the play today called "The King in the Kitchen", some students might be inspired to have a hand at making their own glue. Here are some simple directions. Be sure to share your results!

How to Make Glue
The simplest glue is that made from a paste of flour and water. You may remember making this in kindergarten. It is easy, non-toxic and great for working with paper that needs gluing, including papier-mâché projects.

Steps
1. Assemble the "Things You'll Need."
        * Flour
        * Water
        * Bowl
        * Mixer
  
2. Put plain white flour and water into a bowl. The amount is up to you, as it depends on how much glue you need for your project.
  
3. Mix the flour and water together until a smooth paste is achieved. It should not be too thick or too drippy.
  
4. Use it soon after creating it. It can be used to stick paper together for a variety of craft projects, such as making paper mâché.
  
5. You can only use it for weaker stuff as this glue may not be strong enough. But you can add Vaseline shampoo to it so it makes more sticky :D
 
Tips
    * Get young children to wear an apron to protect them from glue spills on their clothes.
    * It is great to get children of any age making this for themselves, as it is non-toxic. However, be sure to help younger ones to get the lumps out or the glue will be too lumpy to use.
    * If the glue seems too drippy, add more flour. If it seems too thick, add more water.
    * If you want, you can also sift the flour before you mix the paste


Warnings
    * Make sure to dry thoroughly anything stuck with flour and water paste. If it stays damp, it may go moldy. If it's moldy, you will have to waste it and start again!

Andrew's visit!

What a wonderful visit we had with Andrew Staruk last Tuesday afternoon. He spent the afternoon talking with other classes and then came to our room to finish his day. He told us about his job, his family, his favorite things (ice cream and candy flavors, music, restaurants, etc.) and how to write a good letter to a soldier. He told us how math and writing have helped him in his jobs, and different things he might do in his future. He left us all with some special gifts and the possibility of another visit someday. What an inspiring, kind person we met in Andrew!