Third Graders Create Rainforest    posted 7/8/2005    

“Rainforest? Why should I come to that? To broadcast a fantastic experience live! We have an ocelot, Pink Amazon River Dolphin, an aye-aye and a Blue Mopho Butterfly. Designed by third graders, made by third graders.”

“Don’t say no! You’ll be amazed at what two third grade classes can do. Besides, you can’t just take a plane to the Amazon. It costs a lot of money. This rainforest is for free. You’ll regret it if you don’t come.”

Two “news releases” written by third graders convey their excitement about the rainforest they’ve created, populated with 3-D papier maché creatures. Their enthusiasm is evident as the students line up to guide fellow students, parents and news media representatives through the rainforest. Once inside, they keep up a steady stream of information, eager to share what they’ve learned in a month of researching the rainforest habitat, animals, vegetation, climate, the foods and medicine that come from the world’s rainforests and the forces that threaten them.