The second graders began their study of Ancient Egypt after Labor Day. We did a simulation of an imaginary trip to the Ancient Egypt-civilization where the students will learn about the literature and communication of the time. We will begin with a story about Cinderella and do a comparison between the American Cinderella story and the Egyptian Cinderella. We will follow that with learning about the Nile River and the uses of this waterway to the farmers. Students will make a Shaduf, which is the Ancient method of irrigation Please have your child bring one (golf ball size) styrofoam ball, a 12" X 1/4" diameter dowel rod and two or more small cans of play dough for this project. I will need these items by Sept 24th if possible.-
Ancient Egyptian farming has been the focus of these passed few weeks. The Nile River has been the center of activity as the children learned how the longest river in the world, spanning 4000 miles served as the major source of transportation, fertile soil and irrigation. Students made the Shaduf which is the method of obtaining water from the Nile to take to the fields for their crops. They will take these home.
Students have been busy learning about Daily Life of the Egyptians and especially the role of Egyptian children. They have compared their life to those of this ancient civilization and discovered the vast differences while noting that their expectations of a happy life depended upon more material things than the Egyptians. They especially like that only selected Egyptian children went to school. Students made cardboard collars and cuffs worn by the ancient Pharaohs and decorated them with gems. Next, students listened to the story of Senefer,,,,a boy who became a Scribe. They learned about the Hierarchy of Job Positions held by the Ancient Egyptians with the Pharaoh being in the top position. They cited their qualifications and their willingness to move to Upper or Lower Egypt for their particular job. Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving.
