On June 12th, both Grade 1 and Grade 2 classes went to the Aso Milk Farm for our first field trip of the year. It was a great day to go, with temperatures nice and cool for most of the morning. It was a long bus ride but the students were very patient.
Our first activity was inside in a classroom. Students were taught about how humans raise cattle. They were especially surprised to hear that cows would eventually become beef!
Next, the students were able to feed some of the cute cows stationed on the farm, and even see a large pregnant cow. She was massive indeed!
Our next stop was the sheep race where we all got to bet on which two animals would place first and second. We had a couple of winners in our group!
Before taking lunch, students had a Kokugo activity to complete that required them to pet animals. There were a lot to choose from including some sleepy dogs, skitty marmots, fluffy rabbits and a short-tempered pony!
So far, the day had been packed, with very little downtime. Lunch should have been a nice relaxing respite. However, it was interrupted by a bold, persistent crow.
After lunch and a little bit of play, the students got the chance to finally milk a cow. Student reactions were mixed: some were really fascinated and some thought it was a little gross. However, everyone agreed that it was worth doing!
Finally, we made ice cream and this was many students’ favorite activity by far!
All students listened and cooperated well during this session. Perhaps it was because failing to do so would mean that they wouldn’t get to eat ice cream?
The students were completely exhausted by the end of it all; some students slept on the bus ride home, but they really enjoyed the experience without a doubt!
