Looking at the Wind

This is Lynn Handshy. Lynn teaches first grade at Tularcitos Elementary School in Carmel Valley, California. She writes articles about the major activities and projects of her classroom. We feature those projects here on Leslie's website.

Looking at the Wind

By Lynn Handshy

Who Has Seen the Wind? (a poem by Christina Rossetti)

Who has seen the wind?
Neither I nor you:
But when the leaves hang trembling,
The wind is passing through.

Who has seen the wind?
Neither you or I:
But when the leaves bow down their heads,
The wind is passing through.

Christina Rossetti

Here's how we do it in first grade:

1. Collect as many newspaper weather sections as you have children in your class. In our local newspaper, the weather page is at the back of the LOCAL News section; about four sheets thick.

2. Roll a 4" diameter tube making sure that the weather map and statistics are facing out. Staple the top and bottom edges to secure the tube. Then run a thin line of glue down the seam so the wind won't tear the sock.

3. Next, glue or staple 2x18" strips of colorful crepe paper to the bottom of the tube.

4. Finally, punch three equally spaced holes about 1" from the top edge of the tube. Tie an 18" piece of yarn or string through each hole. Gather all three strings together and knot at the end.

There you have it. A whimsical but effective wind sock that can be attached to a pole or fence post and catch the wind for it's maker to see.

Have fun. Lynn

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