We are the Astronauts!
How did the Astronauts get their name?
DEFINE
To begin our process, we defined the word “float”. Teachers presented guiding questions, such as, “What floats?”, “Where do things float?”, “Why do things float?” as well as sentence starters, such as, “Floating is…” and “Floating is not.” During these thoughtful discussions, we discussed qualities that make things float. As we brainstormed, we used vocabulary words such as: heavy, light, density, and buoyancy. We also discussed what environments things can float in: air, water, milk, and other liquids.
EXPLORE
Based on the class definition of floating, we researched potential class names through books, videos, and hands-on activities. In small groups, we read books about boats, hot air balloons, and the moon. To help students visualize why things float if they are large and why things might sink when they are small, the class watched some videos about density and buoyancy. Along with research, we conducted experiments in the classroom. We used a variety of objects from our list to see if they would sink or float in water and milk, such as cereals, pens, paper, paperclips, markers and pencils. With help from Braque, we explored if various items like watermelons, pumpkins, sponges, ping pong balls, marbles, and coins float. Throughout our exploration, we took notes on their observations. This helped create our final list of potential class names.
COMPARE
To narrow down our list, the students discussed which objects were most like themselves such as: canoes, cruise ships, corks, geese, boats, astronauts, balloons, helium, and clouds. Students thought about what makes each of the objects similar or different to themselves. This compare and contrast conversation was important as we wanted our class name to be truly representative of us as a learning community!
VOTE
We voted three times to narrow down our gigantic list of over 50 objects that float! Finally, the class narrowed the list down to four choices: hot air balloons, geese, cruise ships, and of course, astronauts. Prior to conducting our final vote, we learned about the voting process and created our own ballot box! In order to vote, each student registered and received a voter’s registration card. Then, we casted votes on a secret ballot. Teachers tallied the votes later that day, and the class name was declared: Astronauts!
Meet the Astronauts' Teaching Team!
Emmy Mlawer-- Head Teacher
My name is Emmy Mlawer and I am the Head Teacher of The Astronauts class. I have been teaching at Gillen Brewer since September 2013 and have my Master's Degree in Childhood General and Special Education with a focus on Learning Disabilities from Hunter College. I am so excited to be working with the students of The Astronauts class this school year! I anticipate a plethora of growth, increased independence and proud accomplishments from each of the students this school year. |
Hannah Sorgi-- Assistant Teacher
My name is Hannah Sorgi and moved to NYC from Buffalo, NY to join the Gillen Brewer community last year. This will be my second year at Gillen Brewer. I received a BA in Religious Studies and Education from Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, NY, where I also received my Master's Degree in Education. I am really looking forward to working with the Astronauts this year! |
Marissa Goldstein-- Assistant Teacher
My name is Marissa and I moved from New Jersey to join the Gillen Brewer team this summer! I have graduated from Penn State with a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction and a B.S in Special Education with a Reading Specialist certification as well. In my free time I enjoy working out and spending time with my family and friends. I am looking forward to working with the Astronauts this year! |
Meet the Astronauts' Therapeutic Team!
Brittany Blacker-- Occupational Therapist
This is my second year working at Gillen Brewer. Previously, I was working in an early intervention program in Westchester. I graduated from Ithaca College in 2013 where I received my Master of Science in Occupational Therapy. I am very excited to join the GBS community. |
Jessie Schanker-- Speech and Language Therapist
Jessie Schanker joined the Gillen Brewer community in September 2016. She received her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from University of Wisconsin – Madison and a Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology from Hunter College. She is thrilled to be working with the Astronauts this year! |