excavating ice

Physical Education

• The 12 year old student engaged in physical activity by excavating ice, improving their strength and coordination.
• Through physical exertion, the student learned about the importance of warming up and stretching before engaging in strenuous activities.
• The activity enhanced the student's understanding of muscle endurance and the need for proper hydration during exercise.

Science

• The student learned about the properties of ice, observing how it changes from a solid to a liquid when excavated and exposed to warmer temperatures.
• By examining the layers of ice, the student gained an understanding of how environmental factors can impact the formation and preservation of ice over time.
• The activity sparked curiosity about glacier formation and how ice plays a role in shaping landscapes, fostering an interest in Earth sciences.

After the ice excavation activity, encourage the student to explore the concept of biomechanics through discussions about body movement and leverage. Additionally, organizing a mock "archeological dig" using ice and frozen objects can further develop the student's fine motor skills and scientific inquiry.

Book Recommendations

• The Big Thaw by Bruce Croxon: A fictional story of a young explorer who uncovers the mysteries of an ancient ice cave, weaving in scientific concepts and adventure.
• Ice Explorers: The Men Who Claimed Greenland by Bob Bartlett: A historical account of explorers' encounters with ice and the extreme physical challenges they faced.