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Science Fiction for Middle School Fun Jurassic Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

January 2, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today is national science fiction day and we’re doing a science fiction for middle school fun Jurassic Park unit study. You can find more about fossils on my Amber – Freezing Gold Lapbook and Unit Study and for tips on homeschool middle school.

Besides science and suspense make for a fun unit study.

And we’re science fiction lovers here whether it’s Dr. Who, Star Trek or Battlestar Galactica, remember that?

Science Fiction for Middle School Fun Jurassic Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

In addition, a science fiction unit study unlike a fantasy study delves into the possibilities of what if and may not stay in the realm of imagination like fantasy.

One more thing, most of my unit studies I create for multiple ages and still target one age group.

So, although this is targeted toward middle school, I have activities for all ages since we learn together.

Because science fiction is a mix of science and what can be possible in the future, it makes for a fun day of learning or is that bantering with middle schoolers?

First, look at the topics that can be covered in a Jurassic Park unit study and then I have some hands-ideas and resources below.

15 Jurassic Park Unit Study Topic Ideas

And whether you choose to read the book or watch the fun movies, you’ll have different topics.

For example, here are 15 topics to study while watching or reading Jurassic Park.

  • Can you clone dinosaurs from fossilized mosquitoes in amber?
  • Too, what is cloning and what are scientist so fascinated by the topic and why the controversy?
  • Understand about dinosaurs and their behavior.
  • And dive deep into understanding velociraptors and pterodactyl
  • Explain biotechnology and the pros and cons.

  • How is DNA recovered and what is DNA?
  • What is fragmented DNA?
  • How do amphibians reproduce?
  • Describe the geography of the island and the types of trees and plants on the island.
  • Learn what is amber and how it’s formed.

  • Discuss different scientific theories. For instance, chaos theory, gene theory, and Darwinian theory. This leads to a great discussion of adding your world view.
  • Investigate about Steve Spielberg and what it means to be a successful director and producer.
  • How to explain what is a fossil?
  • Focus on how organisms are classified.
  • Define what is a paleontologist and how they work.

Next, here is some information about the study of dinosaurs.

Facts and Resources about Dinosaurs

Moreover, talking about dinosaurs gives you time to share your worldview and to separate what is fact from fiction.

And that is what makes it fun to teach this unit study because some questions may just be unanswered.

  • What Color Were Dinosaurs YouTube
  • A Brief History of Geologic Time YouTube
  • Are Birds Dinosaurs YouTube
  • Dinosaurs of Antarctica Education Guide 121 page
  • Wyoming Dinosaur. Lots of great activities and printables.
  • Fossils and Dinosaurs
  • American Museum Of Natural History has fun Lessons Plans and Ideas
  • Dinosaur Lesson Plans
  • Dinosaurs are Real 4 page lesson plan from Smithsonian
  • Dinosaurs are for the Birds lesson plan
  • Dinosaur Detectives

In addition, look at some hands-on ideas about dinosaurs.

  • 8+ Super Fun Dinosaur STEM Activities for Kids
  • Fun Dinosaur Activities Printable
  • Dinosaur Printables for Kids
  • Make a GIANT dinosaur out of toilet paper rolls
  • Create Wearable Dino Feet
  • How to Make Dinosaur Fossils
  • Dinosaur Matching Puzzle
  • Homemade Dinosaur Bones

And here are some hands-on ideas for science.

Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

Or science fiction for middle school kids.

Hands-on Ideas for Science and Science Fiction for Middle School

  • Do my Amber – Freezing Gold Lapbook and Unit Study.
  • Change the climate of a planet so it can be inhabited
  • Make Dinosaur Fossils
  • How To Study Human Anatomy For Science:Build An Edible DNA Model
  • Strawberry DNA Extraction
  • Build a Dino STEM Activity
  • DIY Dino Egg Soap
  • Attack of the Killer Cabbage Clones
  • How to make a Velociraptor model from paper mache and bubble wrap.
  • 11 Best Science Fiction Books For Middle Schoolers

Further, look at these fun resources to add to your Jurassic Park Unit Study.

10 Jurassic Park Unit Study Resources

Add one or more of these fun resources to your study to bring it to life.

Image for 1. Jurassic World: The Ultimate Pop-Up Book

1. Jurassic World: The Ultimate Pop-Up Book

Featuring explosive, pop-off-the-page depictions of the Tyrannosaurus rex, Velociraptor, and other prehistoric favorites, this deluxe pop-up book traces the evolution of the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World sagas across three decades of major motion pictures. Presented in a dynamic 360-degree format that allows fans to view and participate in the action from all sides, Jurassic World: The Ultimate Pop-Up Book also includes interactive pull-tabs and hidden surprises.

Image for 2. Jurassic Park

2. Jurassic Park

HD. Steven Spielberg brings dinosaurs to stunning life in this thriller about an island theme park where the star attractions go on a rampage.

Image for 3. Jurassic World Magnetic Activity Book Set

3. Jurassic World Magnetic Activity Book Set

Jurassic World Magnetic Activity Book Set - Jurassic World Bundle with Interactive Reference Book and Jurassic Park Stickers for Kids, Boys, Girls (T-Rex Dinosaur Activity Book). This activity book bundle comes with 1 Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom Meet the Dinosaurs magnetic fun activity book with 10 pages and magnetic dinosaur figures. Each page of this Jurassic World dinosaur reference book contains fun facts about all your favorite dinosaurs and features magnetic play scenes, perfect for placing your dinosaur magnets on the page to create fun scenarios

Image for 4. Jurassic World Adult Coloring Book

4. Jurassic World Adult Coloring Book

This book features forty-five original, line-art images depicting the lush environments and heart-racing action from the hit film, including all of your favorite dinosaurs, the Indoraptor, Baryonyx,
Stygimoloch, and fan favorites T. Rex, Mosasaurus, and Blue, for you to color however you wish!

Image for .5.  Dinosaur Blanket for Boys Girls

.5. Dinosaur Blanket for Boys Girls

Throw Blanket with Dinosaur Pattern Gifts for Dinosaur Fans, Lightweight Flannel Fleece Blanket for Bed Sofa Couch
Image for 6. Jurassic World Dinosaur Field Guide

6. Jurassic World Dinosaur Field Guide

Dinosaur Field Guide, written by two noted paleontologists and illustrated in big bold colors, is a
kid-friendly nonfiction guide that uses simple text to describe over 100 dinosaurs! Kids will learn tons of awesome facts about the most well-known dinosaurs and some of the newest discoveries.

Image for 7. Jurassic World: The Official Cookbook

7. Jurassic World: The Official Cookbook

Designed to look like an in-world souvenir sold at the park, this colorful cookbook features approachable at-home recipes for treats and dishes that celebrate the different regions of the iconic park and the miraculous dinosaurs that live there

Image for 8. Dinosaurs in the Wild! (Jurassic World Dominion) (Step into Reading)

8. Dinosaurs in the Wild! (Jurassic World Dominion) (Step into Reading)

Step 3 readers feature engaging characters in easy-to-follow plots about popular topics for children who are ready to read on their own.

Image for 9. Dinosaur Fossil Digging Kit for Kids, Dinosaur Eggs Excavation Kit

9. Dinosaur Fossil Digging Kit for Kids, Dinosaur Eggs Excavation Kit

3 KINDS OF DIFFERENT DIGGING FUN: 1. Dinosaur head fossil: Child can excavate 5 real dinosaur fossils including 2 tyrannosaurus tooth, 1 tyrannosaurus claw & 2 lava stones! 2. The dinosaur bones inside Brick can assemble 3D T-rex skeleton. 3. 6 pieces Dino Eggs Dig Kit & discover 6 unique dinosaur designs. Feel like a real paleontologist excavating up unique toy dinosaurs from 3 digging
styles.

Image for 10. Six  Piece Jumbo Dinosaur Toys for Kids

10. Six Piece Jumbo Dinosaur Toys for Kids

13-17 Inches 6 Pcs Jumbo Dinosaur Set includes the following mighty dinosaurs: T-Rex, Pterodactyl,
Triceratops, Brachiosaurus,Giganotosaurus and Velociraptor Blue . This jumbo dinosaur set includes realistic, colorful dinosaur figures that are durable and made from high-quality material.

EDUCATIONAL DINOSAUR FIGURES:Kids will Enjoy Hours of Imaginative Play with These Jumbo Realistic-looking Dinosaurs!Fun and Educational for Both Boys and Girls Alike.Just Right for a School / Dinosaur Science Project or Report.

Now let’s try creating our own insect in amber for an amazing hands-on activity and keepsake from this exciting unit study.

DIY Insect In Amber Activity

You can make a pendant to be worn or a ball of amber to display.

Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

This is a very fun activity that will interest older kids who may have done fossil impressions one too many times and would like something that is more of a challenge and not babyish.

Supplies Needed: You will need epoxy resin and supplies.

After quite a bit of research this kit seemed to offer the best combination of variety, price, and reviews.

It was very easy to work with and included everything a beginner needs to get started with epoxy including gloves and a silicone mat to protect your surfaces.

Science Fiction for Middle School Fun Jurassic Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

First, create a small insect from craft clay, we attempted a mosquito.

But it came out looking a bit more like a fly and that’s okay.

DIY Insect In Amber Activity

We are not going for perfection with our kiddos. If you prefer you can grab some small plastic insects to use.

Science Fiction for Middle School Fun Jurassic Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

Mix epoxy resin parts A and B according to directions.

From what I can tell they pretty much all call for equal parts A and B but from a lot of comments and research the general buzz is to add slightly more B (hardener) to get better results.

Add a small amount of the mica powder to the mixed resin. 

Then, use a toothpick to add a tiny dot or two of yellow and maybe a bit of a rusty red color to get close to an amber shade.

You will be able to see from the final images that we went a little too dark on our first attempt.

So, you want it to be mostly translucent and remember you can always add more color but not subtract it.

Science Fiction for Middle School Fun Jurassic Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

Pour a very thin layer of resin in the bottom of your silicone mold and then place your insect in the bottom.

Carefully pour resin mixture over it to fill it to the top of mold.

The kit I linked is self-leveling and the air bubbles will come out on their own.

However, if you are using a different type, follow manufacturer directions.

Science Fiction for Middle School Fun Jurassic Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

Place the mold on a hard flat surface and leave it undisturbed for 24 hours until completely hardened.

Gently unmold your creations and marvel at how perfectly preserved your “specimen” is.

Science Fiction for Middle School Fun Jurassic Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

If you made a pendant now is the time to make a necklace by stringing elastic cord, fishing wire, or other thin fiber through the hole.

Science Fiction for Middle School Fun Jurassic Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

Otherwise, your insect in amber is ready to put on display.

We may have gotten a little carried away, making pendants preserving feathers and dried flowers as well.

Science Fiction for Middle School Fun Jurassic Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Middle School Homeschool Tagged With: crafts, Jurassic Park, middle school, middleschool, science fiction, unit studies, unit study, unit study approach

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

December 28, 2022 | 1 Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

For the Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time book, we’re making a sun king fun medallion. Be sure to grab more Geronimo Stilton Books ideas and crafts on my page.

Let’s take a trip with our mouse guide Geronimo to the Court of Versailles in 1682 CE in Back in Time, The Second Journey Through Time to meet King Louis XIV and learn about Palace of Versailles.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Did you know that King Louis XIV (that’s #14 in Roman Numeral) was known as “The Sun King”?

It was a nickname that he gave himself.

And Louis XIV chose the sun as his personal emblem.

The sun is the symbol of Apollo who is the god of peace and the arts.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

King Louis named himself such because he wanted the realm to revolve around him like the planets revolve around the sun.

Be sure to grab Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time book.

Facts about the Sun King Louis XIV 

  • Louis ruled for 72 years, he was just shy of 5 years old when it passed to him.
  • King Louis XIV died of gangrene on September 1, 1715.
  • Louis XIV built his extravagant Palace of Versailles after the civil war known as the Fronde when he had to flee from his palace in Paris at just 12 years old, He fled to the family hunting lodge 13 miles outside Paris.
  • He was very strict in his protocols at court and every moment of the day was precisely organized and planned out.
  • The king was an excellent ballet dancer.
  • He died at the age of 76 and was succeeded by his grandson King Louis XV.
  • A U.S. state is named after him. Louisiana was given its name by French explorer René-Robert Cavelier for King Louis.

Then you’ll want to add a few more hands-on activities to understand about the French.

Hands-on Ideas to Understand the French Empire

For example, look at the hands-on ideas below.

  • Free Storming the Bastille Game
  • Free Homeschool History Cards – French and Indian War
  • 15 Hands-on History Ideas for Kids Studying the French and Indian War
  • Beethoven & The French Revolution Minibook 
  • French Revolution Unit Study + Free Copywork
  • Learn About the Geography of France by Creating A Solar Oven
  • Geronimo Stilton Journey Through Time Series Fifth Journey Fun Eiffel Tower
  • 10 Interesting French Crafts And Activities For Kids
  • Facts about France Geography Worksheet

Besides, hands-on activities makes learning stick so be sure to include a few more with this book.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Too, look at more Geronimo Stilton Book crafts.

Geronimo Stilton Book Activities

Next, look at these other crafts to go with the books.

  • The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft
  • Journey Through Time Geronimo Stilton Time Warp Fun Lost City of Atlantis
  • Race Against Time Build a Fun Greek Water Clock
  • Out Of Time Fun Sir Francis Drake Ship Craft
  • Stilton Journey Through Time Series Fifth Journey Fun Eiffel Tower
  • 10 Things to Learn From The Fun Geronimo Stilton Chapter Books
  • The Fourth Journey Through Time Fun Cleopatra Collar
  • Learn About Mozart The Eight Journey Through Time Geronimo Stilton Series
  • The Geronimo Stilton Book Fourth Journey Fun Egypt Game
  • Geronimo Stilton Journey Through Time Craft a Fun England Tower Guard
  • Mouse in Space Fun Puffy Moon Craft (Glow in the Dark)
  • Down and Out Down Under Make a Fun Edible Coral Reef
  • Field Trip to Niagara Falls Summary And Fun Corn Craft
  • The Journey Through Time #2: Back in Time Colosseum Craft
  • The Race Against Time Geronimo Stilton Activities: Fun Edible Spine
  • #2: Back in Time Mayan Craft
  • The Curse of The Cheese Pyramid Barbie Mummy
  • Who Is Geronimo Stilton Rodent Notebooking Page

Now, let’s learn how to make this fun sun king gold medallion.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

I hope you enjoy our journey with Geronimo and also making your very own medallion.

Hot glue is a fun medium for art projects because you can use it for a lot more than just attaching two objects.

It can be put into silicone molds to create shapes that harden once it dries or used free handed like we are going to do today.

How to Make a Sun King Medallion Craft for Kids

Since your child will create their medallion freehanded I am giving you some loose instructions and tips to help them create it.

You will need:

  • Hot glue gun
  • Glue
  • Gold and black paint
  • Plastic bead chain or string
  • Silicone mat

Directions:

Gather all your supplies and don’t forget that silicone mat. It is the best material for peeling off your glue creations and is heat safe!

Your child can create any shape medallion that they would like.

Additionally, they can design their own crest to represent themselves, the family, or they can try to recreate a King Louis sun medallion like this one.

The most important thing is to build up your layers by creating a first layer and letting it cool.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Use toothpicks and craft sticks to try and add a little shaping or detail to the glue when it is partially cooled but not all the way.

But if it’s too liquidly it will just keep pooling.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Then add layer after layer until it is thick and shaped like you want it. We tried to get a general sun shape.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Once the entire thing is completely cooled and hardened, peel it off the silicone and paint it gold with craft paint.

It will probably take 2-3 coats to get good coverage.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

When it is almost dry use a paintbrush to dry brush on some black craft paint to age and patina your medallion, so it looks like an old treasured relic.

Brush off excess, you just need a bit.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Allow the paint to dry fully.

Measure a piece of chain or string to create a necklace that can be slipped on and off over your head.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Flip the medallion over and hot glue the length of chain or string to finish your necklace.

What do you think?

1 CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: book lists, books, crafts, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, history resources, historyspine, homeschoolhistory, medieval homeschool history, middle ages history, world history

Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity

December 25, 2022 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

This easy cardinal birds in winter watercolor is a cute project. Be sure you grab more ideas for winter fun on my page winter season unit study.

And the watercolor painting of the cardinal birds in winter and fun birch trees makes a fun display to bring a pop of color.

In addition, you can create it as an art piece on its own or use it as part of a unit on winter birds or winter in general.

Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity

I have some great resources that will help you get started on your unit study.

Too, we are using two different kinds of paint on this cardinal project which are watercolor and acrylic

Also, you’ll learn a new technique to create a unique look to the bark of the birch trees.

But first look at these cardinal bird resources.

Cardinal Bird Hands-on Ideas

  • Do the Hands-On Nature Study: Bird Color Bar Graphing Activity.
  • Work on this Colorful Winter Bird: Northern Cardinal Lapbook & Unit Study.
  • Make a yarn wrapped cardinal art project.
  • Try out my How to Make a Fun Paper Mache American Robin Bird Craft but make it a cardinal.
  • While you learn about these colorful winter birds you can help feed them with this Winter Nature Craft: How to Make Easy DIY Bird Feeders.
  •  Cardinal Fun Fact Coloring Page.
  • Track how many cardinals visit your yard each day for a week, how many are male? How many are female?
  • YouTube, listen to the cardinals song with this video.

Next, add some fun books and resources about cardinals.

12 Northern Cardinal Bird Books and Resources For Children

Add a book or two to your unit study or to your learning day. Cardinals are fun to study anytime of the year.

Image for Wild Bird Guide: Northern Cardinal

Wild Bird Guide: Northern Cardinal

Packed with information, the writing is clear and direct and accessible to bird watchers at every level.

Image for Backyard Birding for Kids

Backyard Birding for Kids

With bird facts, an identification guide, and how-to instructions, this is a perfect children’s introduction to bird-watching.

Image for Albert

Albert

The morning begins like any other. Albert reaches out the window to check the weather. But from the moment a twig lands in the palm of his hand, life is never the same

Image for Nature Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of the Natural World

Nature Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of the Natural World

One of my go tos for nature study.

Explore the anatomy of a jellyfish, the inside of a volcano, monarch butterfly migration, how sunsets work, and much more.

Rothman’s whimsical illustrations are paired with interactive activities that encourage curiosity and inspire you to look more closely at the

Image for Toy Bird Figures Kids

Toy Bird Figures Kids

Because children's thinking is more visualized, the intuitive demonstration of the model can better help children construct in the brain. This birds playset can help children get a more direct understanding of real birds world and stimulate their interest in exploring nature.

Image for Why Evergreens Keep Their Leaves

Why Evergreens Keep Their Leaves

One autumn evening, Little Redbird settled down for one last sleep before flying south for winter. As he slept, a strong gust of wind shook him from his cozy nest . . .

. . . Little Redbird hurts his wing and misses his chance to fly south for the winter. As he searches for a new home amongst the trees, he begins to realize that not all trees are fit for the winter cold. As more and more trees refuse him shelter, too preoccupied with their preparations for the frost, Little Redbird fears the worst. That is, until he comes across a friendly bunch of evergreens.

In the spirit of Oscar Wilde's The Happy Prince, Why Evergreens Keep Their Leaves is a timeless story of kindness and why the fir, spruce, and juniper trees are evergreen all winter long. 

Image for Backyard Birding Flashcards: 100 Common Birds

Backyard Birding Flashcards: 100 Common Birds

The Sibley Field Guide to Birds is now transformed into 100 easy-to-reference cards housed in one handsome pull-drawer gift box. Divided into one stack of 50 common Western and Eastern North American birds, and one stack of 50 common birds found across North America, each card features precise illustrations and text concerning habitat, behavior, and voice description necessary for easy identification.

Image for Attracting & Feeding Cardinals

Attracting & Feeding Cardinals

The vibrant red of the male Northern Cardinal is stunning any time of year—and nothing is more beautiful than the early spring duets of cardinals singing their hearts out. You love these beloved birds, and you want to see them visiting your backyard or garden. Professional naturalist and award-winning author Stan Tekiela teaches you all that you need to know about cardinals.

Image for Cardinals (Backyard Bird Feeding Guides)

Cardinals (Backyard Bird Feeding Guides)

The vibrant red of the male Northern Cardinal is stunning any time of year. And nothing is more beautiful than the early spring duets of cardinals singing their hearts out.

Image for Authentic Bird Sounds, Northern Cardinal, American Goldfinch, Chickadee

Authentic Bird Sounds, Northern Cardinal, American Goldfinch, Chickadee

Kids and adults of all ages love these birds, and are captivated by their sounds. They also make great baby toys, and sensory toys for kids any age.

Includes 3 Realistically designed bird toys that produce authentic bird calls from the Cornell lab of ornithology archives of bird recordings.

Image for The Burgess Bird Book for Children

The Burgess Bird Book for Children

The Burgess Bird Book for Children (1919) is a classic nature book by Thornton Burgess, who introduces young listeners to the subject of bird life by means of a series of interviews within a story. Peter Rabbit and Jenny Wren interview Slaty the Junco, Redwing the Blackbird, Melody the Wood Thrush, Spooky the Screech Owl, and many other common birds to learn about their appearance, their eating, mating and nesting habits, and their songs and calls. The text remains popular as an exceptional combination of information and entertainment.

Image for Cardinals (Backyard Birds)

Cardinals (Backyard Birds)

Whos that singing in the backyard? Its a cardinal! Find out where cardinals live, what they eat, and how to identify the birds and their eggs.

Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity

Furthermore, here are some cardinal facts.

Cardinal Facts

  • Northern Cardinals are mostly non migratory and stay in their habitat year round.
  • Their lifespan is about 3 years and the oldest recorded lived to be almost 16 years.
  • Cardinals are usually the first to visit backyard feeders in the morning and the last to visit at night.
  • Both male and female cardinals can sing unlike most other species of songbird. Male cardinals might sing up to 200 songs in just an hour.
  • Male cardinals are the bright red ones you see, females are a dull brown with just a bit of red on tail and wingtips.
  • Northern Cardinals are protected by the Migratory Bird Act, which means you can’t have one as a pet and it is illegal to kill them.
  • They get their red feathers from carotenoids in their food.
Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity

In addition, look at some more winters unit study ideas.

More Winter Unit Study Resources

Look at these other winter unit study resources.

  • Cute and Simple Snowman Story Stones Winter Art Activities
  • Winter Craft Ideas How to Make Fun Pinecone Flowers
  • How to Make an Adorable Toilet Roll Snowman for Winter Crafts
  • Easy and Fun Pinecone Snowy Owl Winter Craft for Kindergarten
  • Free Amazing Winter Unit Study and Winter Lapbook for Kids
  • Easy Hands on Snowflake Winter Craft for Kids Who Don’t Have Snow
  • Winter Nature Craft: How to Make Easy DIY Bird Feeders
  • 3 Fun Cocoa Winter Hands on Science Activities
  • How to Make an Easy Build a Snowman Kid’s Game (free printable cube)

Now, grab your art supplies and make this fun winter art project.

How to Make Cardinal Birds in Winter Watercolor

First, you will need:

  • Watercolor paper
  • Watercolors
  • Paintbrushes
  • Black acrylic paint
  • An old credit card
Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity

Next, here are the direction.

Use a watered down black or gray with a small paintbrush to outline a few general tree shapes and branches.

Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity

On as many branches as you would like, paint a red tear drop shape for your cardinals and add a little wedge at the base for a tail.

Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity

Fill in the blank spaces between the trees with various shades of blue; you don’t have to make it solid, whitespace looks great in watercolors.

Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity

Put a little black paint on a paper plate and tap the edge of a credit card into it, wipe off a little bit of excess.

Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity

Start on one side of the tree outline and set the edge of the card and then drag the card across the tree stopping halfway across.

This will give your bark the look of a birch tree. You can do this as much as you like up and down the tree.

Allow the black paint to dry fully.

Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity

Once paint is dry go back and add a little bit of black to the center of the bird’s face, black feet, and a bit of yellow for a beak.

When everything is dry your cardinals are ready to be displayed in a frame or as is.

What do you think? Ready to try this for a fun homeschool art, science, and hands-on lesson?

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: cardinal bird, crafts, homeschoolinginwinter, watercolor, winter crafts, winter season

The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

December 20, 2022 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

The Journey Through Time Book (Geronimo Stilton Special Edition) is our book for adventure today. And we’re doing a knights armor engraving craft. Be sure to grab more Geronimo Stilton Books ideas and crafts on my page.

Was King Arthur real? Most historians believe he was just a fictional character from folklore and legend.

But that doesn’t stop him from being a very fascinating part of the Medieval period.

The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

With dashing and chivalrous knights, Camelot, jousting, castles, and kings is it any wonder that our favorite time traveling mouse zoomed right into the Middle Ages among the likes of King Arthur and Excalibur.

We are visiting this time period through Geronimo Stilton’s The Journey Through Time, the first book in the Journey Through Time series.

And Geronimo Stilton also makes stops in prehistory with the dinosaurs and in Ancient Egypt.

About The Journey Through Time Book (Geronimo Stilton Special Edition)

The story is fun and captivating but as always, the author weaves so much amazing information into it.

Readers learn fantastic vocabulary from the period, medieval fashion, castle architecture, and the feudal system.

Too, they will even be reading an excerpt from an Alfred, Lord Tennyson poem.

Just because these books are colorful and whimsical it’s no reason to discount the quality they add to your child’s reading time.

The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

In addition, Safari Ltd Toobs have a fantastic knights and dragons set that make for a great addition to a study or to this book.

They can be used to set the mood for introducing a new unit theme, in sensory bins, dioramas, or even as pawns in place of standard board game pieces.

Additionally, we learned that knights had a code of chivalry to be followed.

The Knight’s Code of Chivalry was a system of morals.

Further, the code declared all knights should protect others who could not protect themselves like widows, children, and the elderly.

Facts About Knights and The Knight’s Code of Chivalry

  • The word “knight” comes from an Old English word meaning “servant”.
  • Knights were sworn to uphold their duty to God, to the church, and to their liege lord.
  • Earlier anyone who proved themselves brave and honorable in battle could be awarded knighthood by the king but later it was decided they had to descend from nobility.
  • Young boys could begin their knight training at just 7 years old. They were sent away to live and train and were called pages.
  • At 13 years old, they could become a squire as they continued their education and training.
  • They were finally able to be dubbed a knight at 21.
  • William Marshal was one of England’s greatest knights and was considered the greatest tournament knight of his time.
  • Women could be knights as well. For example, the Order of the Hatchet (Orden de la Hacha) in Catalonia was a military order of knighthood for women.
  • A knight would be punished with public humiliation for breaking the code.
  • Knights armor weighed between 45 and 55 lbs.
The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

Geronimo Stilton Book Activities

Next, look at these other crafts to go with the books.

  • Journey Through Time Geronimo Stilton Time Warp Fun Lost City of Atlantis
  • Race Against Time Build a Fun Greek Water Clock
  • Out Of Time Fun Sir Francis Drake Ship Craft
  • Stilton Journey Through Time Series Fifth Journey Fun Eiffel Tower
  • 10 Things to Learn From The Fun Geronimo Stilton Chapter Books
  • The Fourth Journey Through Time Fun Cleopatra Collar
  • Learn About Mozart The Eight Journey Through Time Geronimo Stilton Series
  • The Geronimo Stilton Book Fourth Journey Fun Egypt Game
  • Geronimo Stilton Journey Through Time Craft a Fun England Tower Guard
  • Mouse in Space Fun Puffy Moon Craft (Glow in the Dark)
  • Down and Out Down Under Make a Fun Edible Coral Reef
  • Field Trip to Niagara Falls Summary And Fun Corn Craft
  • The Journey Through Time #2: Back in Time Colosseum Craft
  • The Race Against Time Geronimo Stilton Activities: Fun Edible Spine
  • #2: Back in Time Mayan Craft
  • The Curse of The Cheese Pyramid Barbie Mummy
  • Who Is Geronimo Stilton Rodent Notebooking Page

In honor of King Arthur and his wonderful Knights of the Round Table we are creating a Medieval Knight in a full suit of armor.

The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

This method is a simpler version of the intricate metal engraving that was done on jewelry, metal plates and more by goldsmiths of the Middle Ages.

How to Make a Knights Armor Engraving

You will need:

  • A cardboard piece
  • Aluminum foil
  • Hot glue gun/glue sticks
  • Black craft paint
  • Paper towel
  • Toothpick tape
  • Pencil/pen

The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

Start by sketching out a simple knight in armor shape on your cardboard.

After you are satisfied with it in pencil you can go back over it with a pen to make it easier to see.

The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

Trace over the lines with hot glue.

Be sure that you make the lines thick enough that they will leave an impression in the foil.

You don’t have to add a lot of detail at this point, just the general shape is enough.

Allow to cool and harden.

The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

Once the glue is hardened, cover your cardboard in foil and wrap around the back. Tape into place.

The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

Carefully, run your fingers over the raised surface to press the foil into it.

You will want to go back and forth over it several times.

The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

Once your outline is fully showing through the foil take a toothpick and gently scratch in a few details to give your knight more interest.

Squirt a little black paint right onto your completed design.

Spread it gently with a paper towel and let it sit for a couple minutes and wipe it off.

The black should stay inside the indentions and create some dimension making the design stand out a bit and age it a bit.

The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

Allow the paint to dry and your knight engraving is ready to go on display.

You can use the same technique to write your name, engrave a castle design, or anything else you like.

The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: book lists, books, crafts, Geronimo Stilton, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, history resources, homeschoolhistory, literature, medieval homeschool history, middle ages history

Wright Brothers And Amazing Airplanes And Other Things That Fly

December 17, 2022 | Leave a Comment
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Today is Wright Brothers Day. And we’re learning about amazing airplanes.

On December 17, 1903, almost 120 years ago the Wright brothers were able to make their first successful flight.

It was completed in the 1903 Wright Flyer in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina with Orville Wright manning the controls.

Wright Brothers And Amazing Airplanes And Other Things That Fly

What an amazing thing it must have been to see that sight!

Flying objects are things we take for granted because it is so commonplace now.

Wright Brothers Airplane

Their plane was a Canard biplane with a 12-horsepower Wright horizontal four-cylinder engine driving two pusher propellers via a sprocket-and-chain transmission.

And there were no wheels, linear skids acted as landing gear.

Also, it was a natural fabric finish – no sealant or paint of any kind.

With a wingspan of 40 ft 4 in, a length of 21 ft. 1 in. and it weighed 605 lbs. without a pilot.

We are going to paint and put together a simple old fashioned plane similar to the 1903 Wright Flyer.

Using some hot glue and wooden craft sticks (popsicle sticks) that you can customize by creating it in different sizes as well as colors.

MORE ACTIVITIES ABOUT FLIGHT AND THE WRIGHT BROTHERS

  • Fun Facts About The Wright Brothers For Kids | Easy Bicycle Art

First, look at some of these books to add to your study.

8 Resources About Flight and Flying

Use one of these books to study about airplanes or things that fly.

Image for Who Were the Wright Brothers? (Who Was?)

Who Were the Wright Brothers? (Who Was?)

As young boys, Orville and Wilbur Wright loved all things mechanical.  As young men, they gained invaluable skills essential for their success by working with printing presses, bicycles, motors, and any sort of machinery they could get their hands on.  As adults, the brothers worked together to invent, build, and fly the world’s first successful airplane. This is the fascinating story of the two inventors and aviation pioneers who never lost sight of their dream: to fly, and to soar higher!

Image for Planes!: (And Other Things That Fly) (Things That Go)

Planes!: (And Other Things That Fly) (Things That Go)

Take to the skies with this fun, visual miscellany for younger children who love anything related to airplanes and flying!

Image for Wind, Sand And Stars (Harvest Book)

Wind, Sand And Stars (Harvest Book)

Recipient of the Grand Prix of the Académie Française, Wind, Sand and Stars captures the grandeur, danger, and isolation of flight. Its exciting account of air adventure, combined with lyrical prose and the
spirit of a philosopher, makes it one of the most popular works ever written about flying.

Image for The Story of the Wright Brothers: A Biography Book

The Story of the Wright Brothers: A Biography Book

The Wright brothers were the first people ever to build and fly an airplane, doing what many people at the time didn’t think was possible. Before they made history with their airplane, Wilbur and Orville were curious kids who loved learning about the world around them and how it worked. They fell in love with the idea of flying and taught themselves everything they needed to know to make their dream come true.

Image for The Wright Brothers
 (Good for High School Kids)

The Wright Brothers (Good for High School Kids)

On a winter day in 1903, in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, two brothers—bicycle mechanics from Dayton, Ohio—changed history. But it would take the world some time to believe that the age of flight had begun, with the first powered machine carrying a pilot.

Image for Flight: The Complete History of Aviation (DK Smithsonian)

Flight: The Complete History of Aviation (DK Smithsonian)

From the early pioneers to the latest spaceflight technology, this groundbreaking book charts the inspirational story behind humankind's conquest of the skies. In the 100 years since the Wright brothers' first powered flight, aviation has witnessed many memorable events. From record-breaking flights and aerial warfare, to advances in aircraft design and the race for space, Flight covers the most memorable moments in the history of aviation

Image for The Sky TOOB

The Sky TOOB

In the sky themed figurines by Safari Ltd. Airplanes, blimp, helicopter, hot air balloon, space shuttle and more replicas have been handpainted and researched for accuracy. Pieces come in a clear toob with a globe top and facts on the inside. These figures are perfect for displays, playing pretend, and more! 12 pieces per package.

Image for The Wright Brothers: Pioneers of American Aviation (Landmark Books)

The Wright Brothers: Pioneers of American Aviation (Landmark Books)

Young Orville and Wilbur Wright loved building things. From the fastest sled in town to the highest-flying kite, the Wright brothers’ creations were always a step ahead of everyone else’s. They grew up learning all about mechanics from fixing bicycles and studied math and physics. On December 17, 1903, Orville took off in the world’s first flying machine! The Wright airplane is one of the most amazing–and life-changing–

Also, hands-on learning makes a subject come to life.

Hands-on Activities for Flying Things

Learning about the Wright Brothers and their Wright Flyer is a great springboard for learning about other things that fly, including:

  • Hot Air Balloons
  • Blimps
  • Space Shuttle. Look at my Exploring Space and Astronomy Unit Study. and learn how to make a straw rocket
  • Parachutes. Look at this STEM: Build a Da Vinci Parachute Activity.
  • Stunt Planes
  • Executive Airplanes
  • Helicopters
  • Concorde Jet

Have children research via books or the internet who invented each and when. If you like, have them choose one and research it deeper.

Call your local airport and see if they offer tours for groups and schedule a field trip for your co-op or group of friends. You may have even better luck at smaller private airports.

Wright Brothers And Amazing Airplanes And Other Things That Fly

Especially for younger children, the figures in Safari Ltd. In The Sky Toob are perfect for hands-on activities.

For instance, look at these ways to use the sky figures.

  • create an up in the air sensory bin,
  • a flying things diorama,
  • you can add them to the block center
  • use as a model for pencil drawings or
  • include them in a themed basket for things that fly.
Wright Brothers And Amazing Airplanes And Other Things That Fly

Another way you can use them is to have your child place them in order of when each was invented.

Further, make paper airplanes and see who can fly them the farthest, measure the distances to include some simple math naturally into your day.

You can even add on an airplane launcher to really get them moving.

Last, make an egg carton helicopter that littles will love.

How to Make an Amazing Wooden Airplane

Now, let’s make this fun wooden airplane.

Wright Brothers And Amazing Airplanes And Other Things That Fly

Short list of supplies

  • 2 sizes wooden craft sticks (popsicle sticks)
  • wooden spools
  • Craft paint
  • paintbrushes/foam brush
  • Hot glue gun/sticks
Wright Brothers And Amazing Airplanes And Other Things That Fly

Directions:

Paint 2 large wooden craft sticks and 2 small ones the same color, or you can leave them unfinished in the natural color like the Wright Brothers plane was.

Wright Brothers And Amazing Airplanes And Other Things That Fly

Paint a third small craft stick another color for the propeller.

Stack 5 or 6 craft sticks together and secure between each with hot glue. Once the glue hardens and dries, paint the stack the color you chose for the body.

Wright Brothers And Amazing Airplanes And Other Things That Fly

Allow paint to dry completely before moving onto the next step.

Once everything is dry, you are ready to assemble.

Place your stacked pieces vertically in front of you.

Then attach one large stick to the top and underside of the front of the stack centered about 1” down to create a nose for the plane.

Wright Brothers And Amazing Airplanes And Other Things That Fly

At the opposite end of the stack glue a smaller wood craft stick on top and underneath.

Wright Brothers And Amazing Airplanes And Other Things That Fly

Finally, hot glue your propeller in place on the nose.

At this point, you may want to trim your craft stick down a bit to make a smaller propeller using loppers or strong scissors to make it smaller.

As an extra step if you like you can glue two small beads or wooden objects under the wings to tip it upwards to allow it to sit and a slant, making it better for display.

Wright Brothers And Amazing Airplanes And Other Things That Fly

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: airplanes, crafts, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, science, unit studies, unit study

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