| Building a Community A class project |
| Every good third grade class studies communities. We decided to build one. For this project I gave my students simple patterns to construct their homes. After a little practice, they were able to create their own style of home. |
| The lots and streets were planned and traced. The students, after choosing their lot, were able to design their desired landscapes. A few trees, which I purchased at a Model Railroading store, were used to add a little realism. Streets were also named and stop signs added. |
| Lots were divided in various sizes. Each student was able to choose their lot in order according to their overall grade point average. Those with a higher GPA naturally chose the larger lots. To my surprise, no one complained. |
| Several lots were set aside in the center of our city for commercial, public, and emergency buildings. Students were asked what a community usually needs to function well. They then built these buildings and added them to the set. Upon completion of the city, students were allowed to bring their Hotwheel vehicles from home to add to the set. For several weeks they lived and played in their own community. |
| Sometimes it is fun to learn! |
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