Today the fi rst-graders and I (Susan) are off on a walk to
the nature preserve. This frequent event lets the children
observe and document changes in their neighborhood. As
usual, several parents join us. Sometimes, Bonnie Hurless
(one of the article’s authors) and her early childhood education
students join us as well. I remind the children to
note the changes in the plants, animals, pond, and weather.
In our fi rst grade, I use an integrated approach to teach
reading, writing, math, science, and social studies skills and
to instill beliefs about care for the environment, animals,
ourselves, and one another. Everything Changes is an overarching
theme we explore all year long (see web below),
including observing nature changes on our walks.
On our return to the classroom, the children record their
observations about change through drawings and writing,
each working at his or her own level. When they fi nish, I
meet with individuals to confer about their written observations.
Writing is integrated into every activity, whether it is a
walk in the nature preserve or a science experiment. It is not
just for recall, but to encourage children to think. Following
children’s writing development throughout the year is an
excellent way to document their growth and learning.