By Linda Golding,
Principal,
McMahon Elementary School
On April 1, 66 sixth graders gathered in the cafeteria to take part in a science experiment. Michelle Russell, grade 6 teacher, arranged for enough squid so that all the children could have their own. Althea Walker, assistant principal, led the students through the experiment with the aid of sixth-grade teachers Camilla Lampron and Diane Nadeau. Other adults were also recruited to help with the project.
As the squid were laid on individual plates, “Yuck!” and “I’m not touching that!” could be heard from several students. Once the project was underway, however, most students became engrossed in the task at hand, hunting for the squid’s brain or other various parts. This activity was one of many that sixth graders did while studying the ocean. Other resources they used during this unit included the Voyage of the Mimi software, an array of library books, and videos. This hands-on activity was an excellent way for students to learn about one of the sea’s creatures.
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