Paperclip
Students were given a paperclip and ask to create something purposeful or useful (no toys). They could combine it with any other materials but they could not be purchased.
Written language
Students created some very intelligent written languages! I was impressed with their use of symbols, coding and mirror images. We had so much fun decoding each others work and reading the messages.
Students created some very intelligent written languages! I was impressed with their use of symbols, coding and mirror images. We had so much fun decoding each others work and reading the messages.
Musical Instruments
Students designed and constructed instruments from various recycled materials or junk lying around the house. The photos show students playing each others instruments during the gallery walk.
We played our instruments together trying to hold the same beat!
Blank Paper
Students were given a blank sheet of 8 1/2" x 11" paper. The challenge was to find a way to lengthen or extend the paper. The goal was to make it as long as possible. They could not use any aids to help it stick or hold together. During the gallery walk it was interesting to see their different strategies (tied, folded, twisted, cut in unique pattern, ripped, linked via holes, etc.). They completely appreciated each others ideas and learned from each other. Though, many of the lines were laid next to each, it was not a competition.
Floaties
Students created objects that float with straws and twist ties without glue or adhesives. Then, they tested the strength by adding weight (paperclips and hexagon blocks). They discovered various techniques from each other. The key strategies that worked best were straws that were plugged on the ends, twist ties that didn't get wet, and sides built up to hold the weight.
Newspaper Wearables
Students created a wearable item out of newspaper or magazines. No adhesive or aides hold the projects together! Many techniques were used to "sew" pieces together. Some items looked simple at first but upon closer inspection the details were incredible. Somehow the busy print disguised the work that went into each.
Visual Logic Puzzles
Students are working on 21st century skills by completing various visual logic puzzles. The puzzles were meant to stump students allowing them to persevere through the challenge. They were given a chance to share their different strategies for solving the problems.
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Teaching = Higher level of learning
Xalli teaches a group how to play the violin |
Emmett shows how to play Ghosts in the Graveyard |
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Marshmallow Contest
We studied marshmallows during our food chemistry unit (tested for fat and then looked into ingredients) so I thought it would be fitting to have a contest with them. Students created a mini marshmallow device (sling shot, catapult, etc.) for a competition to see who could get it to go the farthest, straights and highest. Each student had a chance to test their device and then they all tested it at the same time (see video). After the competition we reflected (see index cards with comments).
Teaching our reading buddies
This was a two week process. The first week was spent planning out all the details of the task and the second week was spent practicing the presentation. The presentations included a variety of topics, like weaving, history, drawing, math, balloon animals, bunnies, bagpipes, etc. Our reading buddies filmed students but we had difficulty getting videos to load on our websites (hopefully coming soon).
Take something apart and figure out how it works
Students were asked to find something lying around the house that was broken or outdated. They had to ask permission to take it apart so they could and were allowed to take apart.
Dewey Decimal system
Students learned how libraries are organized. Some students shared their new learning with their reading buddies by taking them on a scavenger hunt in the library! * Somehow we only captured Hope with her project!
Create your own homework
Students were given an opportunity to create their own homework. The goal was for students to create homework based on interests but also to make it challenging. They had to show some proof or evidence of completion. This is certainly a creative bunch.
Here is a list of some of the activities:
Redesign the marshmallow shooter
Learn to crochet
Learn to speak spanish
Fold spheres out of paper
Multiplication worksheets
Dog Olympics
Embroidery
Here is a list of some of the activities:
Redesign the marshmallow shooter
Learn to crochet
Learn to speak spanish
Fold spheres out of paper
Multiplication worksheets
Dog Olympics
Embroidery
Egg-periment
The task:
I know that you've heard of the classic "Egg-Drop" experiment and probably even participated in it at some point in your life. Well, we put a twist on the experiment. Essentially, students were asked to construct some type of container that will keep a raw egg from cracking when put through several tests. While students definitely dropped the egg, they also threw it a certain distance and put it through a pressure test (vice). If the egg withstood the first test then it can move on to the second test and so on (somewhat competitive but it will be fun).
More details:
Students were not allowed to test the container with an egg beforehand. The container should be able to be opened and closed several times, not sealed entirely (we have to check the eggs after each test). Students should use materials from around the house, which can be manipulated in any way. Please do not buy special materials.
It was all about planning, predicting, testing (at school) and reflecting. It is important to remember that in many engineering projects, its about drawing conclusions, not getting it perfect or "right" the first time. We love to reflect at QAE and learn from our experiences. Therefore, the result of the product was student generated and they were encouraged to push their thinking! Who knows, maybe they will have an opportunity to try again in the future!
Flying objects
Students were asked create and object that flies. Many students researched air technology and developed their own creative piece. There were gliders, airplanes, saucers, and other unidentified flying objects. We held a competition for distance, height and tricks.