I am introducing the short /e/ sound this week to my students.  I have decided to incorporate science with this by using the word ecosystem.  Although, we typically say it with the long E sound, I researched and actually it can be either.  However, the preferred is using the short /e/.  Therefore, I have decided to use this as new vocabulary for them.  Science is often over looked because we are under such strict guidelines with reading and math.  I just thought that this would be a fun way to incorporate all areas of the curriculum.  I have brought in a homemade ecosystem consisting of guppies, rocks, snails, and various vegetation.  I am truly looking forward to this next week!

http://www.northtexasaquascapes.com/The%20Echosystem.htm