Monday, November 19, 2012

A Trip through Europe and Pennsylvania at Cambria Elementary

Fifth grade students (photo above from Cambria Elementary received the chance to cross the Atlantic for a “feet first” tour of Europe on November 16th! The Learning Lamp partnered with National Geographic to bring a brand new 26’ x 26’ map of Europe to our school. “Europe may be the world’s second smallest continent, but its role in world history and culture has been enormous,” said Heidi Rizkalla, Director of Education at The Learning Lamp. “Students learned how Europe’s rich natural resources and mountain chains provided ideal conditions for settlement and protection, while its navigable rivers, lengthy coastlines and proximity to Asia and Africa created opportunities for exploration and trade.” Guided by an instructor from The Learning Lamp, students analyzed population, human health and economic data from historical “snapshots”. They also looked at how scientific discoveries, technological breakthroughs, plagues, and wars have shaped European life over centuries.

Fourth grade students (photo below) traveled through the Pennsylvania Map to enhance their knowledge and understanding of Pennsylvania history. Both large map programs were made possible for students through financial support from the Cambria Elementary PTO.