A favorite Core Knowledge experience in third grade is the study of the Vikings. Students learn about Scandinavia, its geography, and the people who lived there. Students learn that not everyone from Scandinavia is considered to be a Viking. In order for someone to be considered a Viking, they had to go on raids, oftentimes in longships. Viking facts abound as the students create shields, longships, and write Viking sagas of their own after learning about Norse mythology. They even discuss if they would or would not want to be a Viking!
On Friday, students in third grade concluded this history unit with a traditional Viking breakfast. Ms. Verheeck shared stories of a tradition she enjoyed with her family making Vaffler and Krumkake. The students enjoyed Vaffler (Norwegian Waffles), Krumkake (cones), berries, Skyr (Icelandic Yogurt), hard boiled eggs, and dried cranberries. Ms. Verheeck shared her family recipe with the students and gifted them each with a gnome to bring home in hopes that when they see it in years to come, they will remember their days in third grade learning about Scandinavia. Next up? A rich study of Native American people, culture, and history.
