Here is our pond this week: This week was all about the signs of Autumn. I love Autumn more than any other month of the year. I love the warm colours associated with it; I love our wood burning stove lighting up our 200-year-old living room each night whilst Gary and I are snuggled up watching NCIS…
Category: Nature Study: One Year Pond Study
One Year Pond Study Week 30: Celebrations at the Pond
Here is our pond this week: Although we have crept into the autumn months, there remains a dusty summer murkiness to the pond. I think in order for the pond to return to its former glory we need rain and lots of it. However, when the first day of home school celebrations were discussed the pond was…
One Year Pond Study: Catching up Week 28
Our pond a couple of weeks ago: I know, I don't mean to confuse you all. We did a pond study, at the same time as treating everyone to hot chocolates for A5's birthday, just before we went away on holiday. I had planned to write this pond study up whilst I was at my…
One Year Pond Study-Week 28: Comparison Study Lough Fey
Welcome to week 28 of our one year pond study. Here is our pond this week: But wait, I hear you cry! That is not your pond! Yes, you are quite right. I've not been near enough my pond of late to actually carry out a pond study there, so I thought we would do…
One Year Pond Study Week 27: Mid-way Reflections
Here is our pond this week: This week we are just past the six month mark of a year long pond study, and I can't actually believe I made it this far. It seems incredible that for the past 26 or so weeks we have faithfully visited our little pond. I am proud of us…
One Year Pond Study Week 26: Our Summer Night Time Pond Visit
Here was our pond this week: Last time we did a night-time pond visit was over the Spring on the 26th May. We went between 8 -9 pm, and whilst it is obvious it was evening time it was still very light. This week we went, again between 8-9 pm (nearer to 9pm) and it was pitch…
One Year Pond Study Week 25: Atmospheric changes at the pond
Here is our pond this week: Each week we visit the pond there are almost imperceptible alterations to the atmosphere. This week, however, there really was a noticeable change. Things were calm, as they have been for a few weeks. The difference this week was that there was an air of slight desolation. The water level…
One Year Pond Study Week 24: Summer Pollution Study
Summer is slowly coming to it's conclusion, with the Autumnal equinox and therefore the first day of Autumn falling on Sunday the 22nd of September this year. I had a look over my past posts to see what summer studies we needed to do before then and there are three: Summer night-time pond visit Summer water study…
A Mystery at the Pond {Homeschool Pond Study}
In a One year pond study, a family discovers a hidden Moorhen nest, sparking curiosity about wildlife patterns. They identify new chicks alongside earlier ones, realizing that returning weekly enhances their understanding of local nature. This experience highlights the importance of long-term observation in building connections with ecosystems.
Pond (One Small Square) Part Two
The post highlights the importance of engaging with nature through a year-long pond study, driven by the book "Pond (One Small Square)" by Donald M. Silver. This educational resource inspires children to observe and document a small pond ecosystem, fostering curiosity and self-driven learning while exploring environmental changes and pond life activities.
Pond (One Small Square) Review
The post discusses the benefits of "Pond (One Small Square)" by Donald M. Silver, a vital resource for homeschooling families conducting a year-long pond study. Despite disruptions like illness, the book fosters engagement and understanding of pond ecosystems, blending scientific concepts with enjoyable observations, ultimately enhancing children's learning experiences.
Growing Moorhen Chicks {Homeschool Pond Study Week 20}
One of the greatest gifts of homeschool life is the ability to slow down and truly notice the natural world around us. This week, during week 20 of our year-long pond study, we were completely amazed by how quickly our growing moorhen chicks are developing. The transformation over just a few weeks has been nothing short of astounding and it’s…
Herons in the UK: A Homeschool Pond Study {Week 19}
The joy of homeschooling is highlighted through a pond study focused on Grey Herons in the UK, emphasizing the adaptability of learning in natural environments. Observations around the pond foster critical thinking and patience in children. This study integrates wildlife research, conservation discussions, and creative learning, embodying meaningful educational experiences.
The Ash Tree in the Summer {Pond Study – Week 18}
In week 18 of the one-year pond study, the focus is on the Ash tree's summer transformation. The children observe the shift from spring flowers to lush foliage, engaging in hands-on learning by examining leaves and practicing botanical vocabulary. They discuss the tree's seasonal changes and anticipate future observations in autumn.
Summer Pond Fauna {Homeschool Pond Study – Week 17}
In Week 17 of the year-long homeschool pond study, the children analyzed the summer pond fauna, comparing it to earlier spring findings. They documented changes in species and behaviors, including a drop in mallard numbers and the joyful sight of moorhen chicks. An unexpected terrapin sighting highlighted the dynamic ecosystem, prompting deeper reflections.