Exploring Erosion: Grade 2 Stream Table Activity
Second graders explored erosion this month using a stream table outside Mrs. Sarah Jackson's Lower School Science classroom. As part of their geology unit, they learned how rocks and landscapes change over time. According to Mrs. Jackson, the stream table provided a hands-on way for students to observe erosion in action. "The stream table let students see how water shaped the land, setting the stage for experiments where they collaborated on solutions to prevent erosion," she explained.
The stream table simulated water flow over a landscape, allowing students to see firsthand how it eroded landforms. In the activity, students created a model landscape with trees, houses, and rocks, then predicted how water would affect the land. "Instead of just looking at pictures of the Grand Canyon, they could actually see water carving the land," Mrs. Jackson said. "It really brought the concept of erosion to life."
Students then conducted experiments, adjusting the water flow to see how different conditions affected the landscape. This interactive approach encouraged critical thinking and teamwork as they made predictions and tested their ideas. "Students loved watching whether their trees and buildings survived the water's force!" Mrs. Jackson said. "It was a great chance for them to collaborate, problem-solve, and learn about the forces that shape our world."
Overall, the stream table provided a memorable, interactive experience that connected science concepts to real-world applications. Way to go, Grade 2 geologists!
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
