Lammas: Matter & Ancient Foundations
Introduction to Chemistry & Colonial America
🌾 Unit Overview
As we celebrate the first harvest at Lammas, we begin our sophomore year by laying foundations. In chemistry, we explore what matter is and how we measure it. In history, we examine the foundations of American society. In literature, we begin Things Fall Apart, exploring how cultures respond to change.
📚 Learning Goals
English II
- • Analyze cultural context in literature
- • Identify themes of tradition and change
- • Practice close reading strategies
- • Write reflective and analytical responses
Geometry
- • Understand basic geometric terms
- • Measure segments and angles accurately
- • Apply inductive and deductive reasoning
- • Begin writing simple proofs
Chemistry
- • Classify matter by composition
- • Distinguish physical and chemical changes
- • Use significant figures correctly
- • Trace the history of atomic theory
U.S. History
- • Describe pre-Columbian civilizations
- • Explain European exploration motives
- • Analyze Columbian Exchange effects
- • Compare colonial regions
Weekly Lessons
🕯️ Hearth Circle
Setting intentions for the year; gratitude for the harvest of knowledge
📖 Language Arts
Introduction to world literature; cultural context; journal setup
📐 Math
Review of algebra; introduction to geometric terms and definitions
⚗️ Science
What is chemistry? Properties of matter; physical vs chemical changes
🇺🇸 History
Pre-Columbian Americas; Native American civilizations and cultures
🎨 Art
Main lesson book setup; scientific illustration techniques
🏃 Movement
Stretching and centering; introduction to movement forms
🕯️ Hearth Circle
Diversity in unity; many forms, one essence
📖 Language Arts
African literature introduction; oral traditions; Things Fall Apart begins
📐 Math
Points, lines, and planes; basic postulates
⚗️ Science
Elements, compounds, and mixtures; separation techniques
🇺🇸 History
Age of Exploration; European motivations; early contact
🎨 Art
African art traditions; mask making or textile design
🏃 Movement
African dance elements; rhythmic movement
🕯️ Hearth Circle
Precision and care; attention to detail as spiritual practice
📖 Language Arts
Things Fall Apart: Okonkwo's world; cultural analysis
📐 Math
Measuring segments and angles; angle relationships
⚗️ Science
Scientific measurement; significant figures; dimensional analysis
🇺🇸 History
Spanish colonization; Columbian Exchange; impact on indigenous peoples
🎨 Art
Geometric designs; compass and straightedge basics
🏃 Movement
Precision movements; balance exercises
🕯️ Hearth Circle
Building on those who came before; honoring intellectual ancestors
📖 Language Arts
Things Fall Apart: Tradition and change; theme analysis
📐 Math
Inductive and deductive reasoning; introduction to proofs
⚗️ Science
History of atomic theory; Dalton to modern model
🇺🇸 History
English colonization; Jamestown; Plymouth; colonial life
🎨 Art
Timeline art; visual representations of history
🏃 Movement
Historical games and activities
🕯️ Hearth Circle
First harvest celebration; gratitude for foundations laid
📖 Language Arts
Things Fall Apart: Part One complete; reflective essay
📐 Math
Logic and reasoning review; proof practice
⚗️ Science
Matter and measurement review; lab practical
🇺🇸 History
Colonial foundations review; map work
🎨 Art
Harvest-themed art; main lesson book pages
🏃 Movement
Lammas celebration; outdoor activities
😫 "Just Can't" Day Alternatives
- 📺 Watch chemistry videos (Tyler DeWitt, Professor Dave Explains)
- 🎧 Listen to Things Fall Apart audiobook
- 🎮 Play geometry games (Euclidea app)
- 📱 Explore colonial history with virtual museum tours
- 🎨 Free draw or color while listening to history podcast