I have been highlighting the Pre-K and K the last few weeks as we look at different ways the teachers incorporate building planning and construction into their classrooms.  In 1st grade, these concepts were extended into the idea of city planning as the children worked toghether in social studies to construct an entire town.  The unit was "the community" and in an effort to help children distinguish between the city, the country and the suburbs, Mr. Wilson had them plan and build a community.

Each child created a business that they thought would be needed in a community.  Then they constructed a building in which to house it, and they even made a business card to advertise it.  These buildings were placed on a huge sheet of paper that covered an entire table, roads were added, and a city was born.

Next, students had to decide if they wanted to live right in the city or if they would prefer living in the suburbs adjoining the city, or perhaps out in the country.  Much discussion ensued as the children talked about the pros and cons of each choice, instilling in them the differences between city, country and suburb.

After deciding on where they would reside, each child built a house and placed it in the appropriate spot for their choice.  Again just a perfect example of experiential, hands-on learning.