Penguin Researchers

First grade scientists worked on their nonfiction reading and note-taking skills as they researched, wrote, and illustrated books about penguins this term.

Using graphic organizers to support their note-taking, students have been diving into an array of penguin-themed books this month. They have been gathering information about what penguins eat, the different varieties of penguin species, where they live, and the adaptations that help them live in their environment. After students had identified the most essential and exciting pieces of penguin information, they spent several weeks writing out the information and creating illustrations to accompany each fact. The writing and illustration process required complete focus and concentration, and first graders set up cardboard “offices” around their desks to help them stay focused. Once students completed their pages and had created a cover for their book, they gave them to teachers Kelly Porter and Jill Gibbons to be officially bound. After spring break, first graders will be gathering to share their books at a Penguin Book Publishing Party!

First graders also had the opportunity to see penguins in action on March 3, when Science Department Chair Alex Dixon joined the first grade classes for a Virtual Penguin Encounter with the New England Aquarium! Students got a close-up live view of some of the 70-plus penguins in the New England Aquarium colony. The aquarium’s penguin experts introduced the students to different colony members, explained how the penguins care for themselves and each other, shared fun facts about what the penguins eat and how the aquarium staff tells them apart.