The second-grade classrooms at Lake George Elementary School worked on an exciting research adventure, right in their own backyard! Focusing on the jewel of their community, Lake George, the students chose topics that sparked their curiosity, ranging from the lake’s fascinating animals to boat safety, beautiful beaches, and even the historic Fort William Henry.
But this wasn’t just any research project. Students had the unique opportunity to connect with experts who know Lake George inside and out. Before their expert meetings, the second graders put on their thinking caps and spent time carefully thinking up insightful questions. They focused on using strong question starters to ensure they would get the most informative answers.
The students then had the privilege of meeting with several community experts, Dave Wick from the NYS Lake George Park Commission, “Skip” from the NYS Lake George Park Commission’s Marine Patrol, and Captain Victor Bates from the Lake George Steamboat Company. These experts generously shared their knowledge and answered the students’ questions about the lake.
Second graders were also able to explore different aspects of the lake firsthand, observing and gathering information to support their research. Back in the classroom, the students put their knowledge to work, each creating a page to be included in a class book all about Lake George.
This collaborative project wasn’t just about learning facts, it was about developing crucial research skills. The students learned how to ask essential questions, identify experts as sources of information, take and organize important quotes, and finally, synthesize all their findings into a collaborative nonfiction book.
Through this experience, the second graders at Lake George Elementary School not only deepened their understanding of the lake’s importance to their community but also honed their research abilities, proving that learning can be a truly hands-on and enriching adventure.