This month, our third-grade students at Farmington Elementary School are embarking on an exciting new journey through their English/Language Arts (ELA) curriculum—a module all about the sea! Through a variety of texts, students will explore the ocean as a vast and rich source of life, beauty, and inspiration. The module encourages curiosity and critical thinking as students delve into literature and informational texts that showcase both the wonder and the mysteries of the ocean.
The essential question guiding their studies is, "Why do people explore the sea?" To answer this, students will read carefully selected works that highlight the ocean’s beauty, its many creatures, and the scientists and explorers who have dedicated their lives to studying it. The module features an engaging mix of books and art, offering students a well-rounded understanding of the sea’s role in science, art, and human history.
Among the featured texts is The Fantastic Undersea Life of Jacques Cousteau by Dan Yaccarino, which introduces students to one of the world’s most famous ocean explorers. Through colorful illustrations and Cousteau’s own words, students will learn how he developed and shared his lifelong passion for the sea. Additionally, Giant Squid: Searching for a Sea Monster by Mary M. Cerullo and Clyde F. E. Roper provides a fascinating look at the scientific efforts to understand the elusive giant squid, a creature that has inspired countless myths and legends.
Another text, Ocean Sunlight: How Tiny Plants Feed the Seas by Molly Bang and Penny Chisholm, will give students a deeper understanding of the ocean’s ecosystem, focusing on the critical role tiny plants play in feeding the sea. Students will also dive into Shark Attack! by Cathy East Dubowski, which presents a comprehensive look at sharks and the work of scientists who study them.
For a mix of fiction and fine art, students will enjoy Amos & Boris by William Steig, a heartwarming tale of friendship between a mouse and a whale. They will also study iconic artworks like Katsushika Hokusai’s The Great Wave Off Kanagawa, which depicts the sea’s powerful force, as well as Winslow Homer’s The Gulf Stream, which captures the sea’s beauty and danger. Mary Cassatt’s The Boating Party will show students the peaceful side of life on the water.
Through these texts and artworks, Farmington’s third graders will gain valuable knowledge about the sea and its many wonders. This module not only enriches students' understanding of the natural world but also fosters a love for reading, art, and scientific discovery. We can’t wait to see what sparks of inspiration the sea will ignite in these young minds!