As part of “learning by doing,” first-grade scientists kicked off the unit on bones with a visit to the RISD Nature Lab. At the Lab, surrounded by skeletons, skins, seeds and shells, the students first observed specimens and then drew them. This visit and activity allowed us to actively study not only bones but also many other items, ranging from butterflies to minerals, and then to sketch them through “observational drawing.” On our visit, we touched many natural objects, such as spiders and snakes, and then organized and reflected on our obs
ervations and experiences through our illustrations. Co-exploring the Lab was “the best field trip ever,” said several students.
