Co-op on Panama - Please help!!

[Jenmomof3]

I'm a wits end trying to think of a project, game, or activity on Panama to teach to pre-K through 2nd graders. I'm doing the geography/culture portion. Of course, the one thing that comes to mind is the Panama Canal. I was thinking of somehow building a model and letting them play with it after I explained how it works. I'm just not sure that will hold their attention long enough or that I want to go through all the effort of making it. Any other suggestions??

I already plan to have them color the map and flag and for me to talk about the Panama Canal a little bit with pictures, but beyond that I'm stumped. I need to fill 30 to 40 minutes, make it fun, and hope they learn a few things. Can you help me please?

Thanks!!

[TwinMominTX]

with some movement?

Put a series of squares on the floor to represent the locks of the canal. Have on child be the "boat" and the others be the "water". Have the "boat" in a square and tell them he needs "x waters" on his square to move to the next lock. Better yet, put the locks on different levels (step-stools) and have them progress backwards and fowards through the locks.

Does this make sense at all? I have it pictured in my head, but am not sure about my ability to put it into writing. Let me know!!

[Jenmomof3]

Great idea! Thanks!