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Environmental Chemistry and Literature is Digging (Literally and Figuratively) into Snow
The morning Mountain Campus class, Environmental Chemistry and Literature (CHEMLIT) is off to a great start! Our first unit dives deep into the “Elements of Winter.” Students are learning the principles of thermodynamics, energy, and matter through snow science, and are exploring humans’ relationship to snow through snow stories.
While it may not be obvious, snow is a dynamic system that changes constantly. Once the 7ft wide pit is dug, data like depth, temperature, crystal structure, and density can be collected. This data is used by scientists to make predictions about the stability of snow on avalanche fields, climate change, and habitat dynamics.
In English, students read “To Build a Fire” by Jack London around a campfire. The drama of the story was captured by the elements of being outside when snow from the trees, warmed by the fire, plummeted to the earth just like in the story.
This week, students are “building” on their experiences as they learn the differences between chemical reactions and physical changes while learning about how to build a fire.
They are also going into greater depth about the winter landscape and our relationship to place as they snowshoe through the Mountain Campus trails in anticipation of selecting a personal Ndakkina site.
Each student brings something unique to our team this semester. We have been excited with how willing and eager each student is to jump into this experience!
Check out more Environmental Chemistry and Literature photos in Photos of the Week.
Check out more Environmental Chemistry and Literature photos in Photos of the Week.
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