Versailles Palace & Montmartre

Today we visited the inside of the Versailles Palace, with its breathtaking decor. The students really showed great interest! There was a special science exhibit at the Palace that showed contributions of the French royalty to hydraulics, astronomy, botany, pharmacy, physics, and more. The students are excited to share what they learned with the science and math teachers at school.

We then went to Montmartre, the highest point in Paris, where we had lunch at a creperie and then took time to see the street artists this neighborhood is famous for. Lauren actually had her portrait drawn (see photo)!

I asked the students to write an example of something they have learned on their trip so far, and this is what they wrote:

Lauren: "I have learned that the French, even with cramped cities, fantastic food, grand monuments, boutique after boutique, and bakeries on every corner, are much like us Americans. They laugh at the same things, and treasure life the same way we do. We also share many favorite popstars. All in all, it's a small world after all! =) (I was on a ride at Disneyland with that song.)"

Colton: "I have learned that fashion is extremely important and that they really like American things. They also have longer school hours, and they take their time when eating."

Caroline: "France has taught me a lot about the differences between schools, food, and culture. I have had the opportunity to attend class entirely in French, try cuisine that is new to me, and experience French culture firsthand - something I wouldn't be able to do if taking a tour. I have learned even more French and am pretty sure I can speak and understand the language even more clearly. This experience has been wonderful and I can't wait for another chance to explore the world!"

Tomorrow we will have our last school day. Colton and Lauren have already helped out in English classes and tomorrow will be Caroline's turn.