Yesterday I had a pretty cool experience of learning how to build an igloo. The igloo was and still is used by the Inuit as a shelter during hunting trips on the land. They were never permanent houses, however depending on its size, and the type of snow used it could act as a shelter for up to two months. The one we built yesterday could only be used for about two weeks before it would become unsafe to stay in, therefore another one would have to be built. This was based on the thickness of the blocks of snow we used, the size of the igloo itself, and how well-packed the snow was. We began by cutting out blocks of packed snow using a saw, and creating a ring of blocks on the most levelled ground that was close by. We used a long knife to cut the ends of each block so that they were angled to match up perfectly. As we began to layer the blocks on top of one another, each row was tilted inwards slightly so that we used less blocks for each row. We had to ensure that the face of the blocks that had the fresh powdered snow on it were facing outwards. (This side would likely begin to melt quicker, therefore it should not be facing towards the inside of the igloo where all the heat would be accumulated.) The blocks had to be pressed, well fitted, and arched together to keep them from falling inwards. We cut out a door, just large enough to crawl through, and a hole was left at the top. After almost 3 hours of strenuous building, the igloo was complete. Inside the igloo it was so quiet, and warmer with the winds blocked out. It is easy to understand how our own body heat and the heat produced by a lamp could keep the inside of the igloo warm. As the inside of an igloo begins to warm up it causes the inside walls to melt slightly. As this melted snow comes in contact with the colder snow outside, the wall refreezes making the structure sturdier. Ice also acts as a good insulator helping to keep the inside warm.
It was very exciting to learn about this aspect of the Inuit culture. Afterwards, I realized that I had many more questions about the process of building igloos. However, I am going on a week long land trip at the beginning of April where we will be building many more igloos to sleep in. I am sure I will have all my questions answered then.
3 Comments
Mom
3/19/2017 05:40:07 pm
This experience is absolutely incredible and a once of a lifetime! Very well explained and the pictures are awesome! Thank you so much for sharing with the rest of us as we are certainly enjoying and sharing your experiences with you! Cherish every day!! 😉 Love Mom xo
Reply
Justin & Cindy
3/19/2017 06:03:54 pm
Hi Brit
Reply
Grandma Smith.
3/20/2017 04:23:46 pm
Really look forward to knowing about all that you are experiencing in Canada's extreme North. You are not only a teacher, you are also a student learning so much of the culture of the Inuit people! How very exciting for this privilege you have been given. Your time spent here is absolutely invaluable! Thank you for sharing these wonderful pictures! Love you so very much!! xo
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
Brittney NelsonNever did I imagine myself as a first year teacher, teaching above the Arctic Circle. I have quickly come to realize though that adventures are the best way to learn! I am getting the opportunity to follow my dreams, inspiring young minds to share my love of learning, and getting to explore the beauty of Northern Canada. All at the same time! I don't think there is a better way to start my teaching career! Archives
May 2017
Categories |