Wednesday was our first class field trip to Brooklyn Bridge Park. The children picked the location through a democratic process. First they brainstormed locations that were public, nice places for picnics, accessible by subway, and had space to run around. The options they came up with were: Central Park, Chelsea Piers/Pier 40, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Battery Park, and Art in a Park. Then the children presented cases to the class about why their option should win. They went home and researched to become informed voters and the next day, in an upset vote (with Central Park as the projected winner), Brooklyn Bridge Park won! First, we got on the A train at the West 4th St Station. Then we got off at the High St. Station. And walked excitedly to the park! When we got there we found a spot with good stadium seating by the rocks and a beautiful view. We got out our clipboards and worked diligently (even though our hands were freezing from the windy cold!) at first sketching the view and then taking notes to write poetry about the experience. We took a break for lunch at the picnic tables and then it was off to the playground. Finally, tired from a long day of exploration and play, we headed back to school. To sing songs… And work on our watercolor paintings of the view. Thanks Fourth Grade for an excellent first field trip!    ]]>