An Eclipse of the Sun!

This year was special! Our second graders got to experience a total solar eclipse! On April 8th we brought the 2nd graders together to explain the natural phenomenon that was occurring right in our DAA courtyard! The total eclipse experience was paired with some yummy Oreos to help visual and understand, some super rad safety glasses, and a lot of “no ways!” and “so cools!”. 

“The total eclipse experience was paired with some yummy Oreos to help visual and understand, some super rad safety glasses, and a lot of “no ways!” and “so cools!”. “

We took the opportunity to scientifically talk with students about why an eclipse happens and why only some locations were going to be able to witness the sun disappearing in the middle of the day. Students were able to think about what they thought the moon would look like as it traveled through the path of the eclipse with the help of our sweet treat, Oreos. We worked in groups to organize the Oreos and help students visual the bright sun (frosting) slowly disappearing as the moon traveled directly in front of the light. After our moon phases were organized and we understood the general idea of what we would observe, we snacked on our delicious eclipses. 

We discussed safety and gave students protective glasses and we headed outside to watch history happen! We spent the duration of the eclipse with eyes peeled (safety glasses on) on the sun disappearing behind the moon. They couldn’t believe their eyes! It was getting dim in the middle of the bright sunny day! Students were able to ask questions, help each other understand, and have an experience they won't get for a long time. It was spectacular to witness both the eclipse and the joy and curiosity from the students.  

“It was spectacular to witness both the eclipse and the joy and curiosity from the students.”