Happy Groundhog's Day! Illustrated by Tara Trashler Welcome to Journey North! Over the centuries, winter-worn people have turned to the groundhog each February, hoping he'd predict an early spring. We begin Journey North each year on Groundhog's Day so that we can share signs that spring is truly on its way—and give the groundhog a well-deserved break. Special thanks to Mr. Murray's 7th Grade Class of 1998 in Streetsville, Ontario for preparing this report. In the spirit of springtime—life, renewal and regneration—they dedicate their hard work to two beloved classmates whose lives ended in that winter. Can the groundhog truly predict spring's srrival? Read Student Predictions and Opinions Illustration by Alex C. Mr. Murray's 7th Grade Class, Dolphin Senior Public School Streetsville, Ontario Canada (Meet the class of 2003!) By Nic S. For the past three weeks our class has been working and working on this project about Groundhogs. One group of students phoned and wrote letters to Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania (the home of Punxsutawney Phil) asking them questions about what Groundhog day is really like there. Link to Punxsutawney Interview Another group phoned and wrote letters to a school in Wiarton, Ontario (the home of Wiarton Willy) and asked them what Groundhog day is like there. Link to Wiarton Interview Another group researched the History of Groundhog Day, why it's on February 2, why it's a Groundhog. Another group researched the Natural History of Groundhogs—their size, weight, appearance, what they eat, where they live. One group drew maps and drawings of Groundhogs for the other groups. The last group took pictures of the school and of the class for the web site.   Dedication to our Friends   Try This! Journaling Question What signs do YOU look for to tell you spring is coming? What do you most look forward to each spring? Explain. Write what you think is the scientific reason for the changing of seasons. Then explore this lesson as you compare your ideas. Copyright 2004 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form