First Grade Writers Inspired by Nature
by Lisa Preston, lower school naturalist
The first graders have been studying poetry in the classroom...what better way to celebrate the art of writing than by going on a journey?
The first graders have been studying poetry in the classroom...what better way to celebrate the art of writing than by going on a journey?
We traveled to Warner Park and hiked part of the Candy Cane trail to the large open space, known as the "bread tray." In thinking about what the "bread tray" might look like and how it got its name, first graders imagined the rounded shape of a bread loaf, the flatness of a tray and that it might look lumpy. Well, that is exactly what we found, along with a big sky canopy.
Before each student moved to find a special spot for writing, we noted that there are many famous writers who were inspired by nature and that they, even though they are not yet famous, can be nature writers and can share how nature inspires them. Once we gathered back together, a few shared their writings with the group.
It was and is truly awesome to experience how nature looks and feels through the eyes of a child.
More USN News
List of 3 news stories.
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Remembering Cassandra Teague Walker '67
Peabody Demonstration School's first African-American graduate passed away September 3, 2025. Cassandra Teague Walker '67 returned to her alma mater many times to share her experiences with young students and is featured on the 21st Avenue garage mural.Read More -
5 USN students named National Merit Semifinalists
The National Merit Scholarship Program honors seniors whose PSAT scores show exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies. Congratulations to seniors Darcy Dove, Finch Fleming, Evan Giles, Ismaeel Moskinzada, and Lin Zheng for this honor.Read More -
Clear, restock your shelves during Fall Book Frenzy
Thank you to the many families, faculty, and staff who have donated their pre-loved books, games, and puzzles for resale. USNA continues to accept donations. Fall Book Frenzy takes place Thursday, September 25 through Saturday, September 27 in Cheek Gym. This annual used book sale benefits the Hassenfeld Library.Read More
Contact
Edgehill Campus
2000 Edgehill Ave.
Nashville, TN 37212
Phone: 615-321-8000
Fax: 615-321-0889
Email: info@usn.org
River Campus
1200 County Hospital Road
Nashville, TN 37218
2000 Edgehill Ave.
Nashville, TN 37212
Phone: 615-321-8000
Fax: 615-321-0889
Email: info@usn.org
River Campus
1200 County Hospital Road
Nashville, TN 37218
USN Mission:
University School of Nashville models the best educational practices. In an environment that represents the cultural and ethnic composition of Metropolitan Nashville, USN fosters each student’s intellectual, artistic, and athletic potential, valuing and inspiring integrity, creative expression, a love of learning, and the pursuit of excellence.
University School of Nashville models the best educational practices. In an environment that represents the cultural and ethnic composition of Metropolitan Nashville, USN fosters each student’s intellectual, artistic, and athletic potential, valuing and inspiring integrity, creative expression, a love of learning, and the pursuit of excellence.