The Energy of 6th Graders
6th graders at Madison Elementary in the Twin Rivers Unified School District put their knowledge of solar energy to practical use in December to cook nachos in homemade solar ovens! This delicious activity was part of the “Energy…Catch the Buzz!” unit through Sierra Nevada Journey’s Sacramento Outreach program.
Cooking with the Sun
Kristen's Hiking Group
This classroom lesson complemented other discovery-based activities that had the students investigating sources of renewable and non-renewable energy, and the unit included a field trip to Sacramento Valley Conservancy’s Deer Creek Hills, a natural area 20 miles Southeast of downtown Sacramento. Mrs. Velo and Mr. Howell’s students were divided into 4 hiking groups and became energy detectives while exploring the Blue Oak preserve with their SNJ instructors – Sarah, Kristen, Adam and Joanna. During the trip, students took part in problem solving activities including the Energy Line-up, Kinetic/Potential trail freeze, and the human knot, among others. A student in Kristen’s group admitted that at first she was nervous to be outside in such a wild place but by the end of the day exclaimed; “I found out that nature is really cool!” Well, we couldn’t agree with her more! Thank you to Principal Fields, Mrs. Velo, Mr. Howell and of course to the 6th graders at Madison Elementary for a great program!
Experiential Educator
Phone: (775) 355-1688
Email: jamie@sierranevadajourneys.org
Background: University of Phoenix- B.S in Elementary Education; work in progress- M. Ed in Teacher Leadership.
Something you should know about me:
I was first introduced to Sierra Nevada Journeys as an undergraduate student. I participated in several workshops during my time as a student. After graduation I was hired to work on our campus in Portola, CA. At the end of the summer I joined the staff in the Reno office as an Experiential Educator. I enjoy working with SNJ for the opportunity to work with a variety of student populations and the chance to teach curriculum focusing on scientific concepts. The work environment is always positive and encouraging. My role at SNJ is providing me with numerous opportunities and tools to accomplish my personal and
caeegoals.