Mrs. Mwangi's students are using the theme of "safari" this year with the long journey they'll be taking in 5th grade. To identify with each student's unique responsibility in the classroom, they pieced together a 100 piece, 4 foot puzzle, but weren't allowed to talk during the activity. After completing the puzzle, the kids talked about how each student represented a puzzle piece. For it to look right, everyone had to be involved (i.e. all puzzle pieces there). This went on to a discussion about teamwork and cooperation.
Also last week, the students used various materials to make parachutes. They attached "a parachuter" and were judged on the longest hangtime as well as the most creative parachute. Additionally, each team voted for the Most Valuable Player, who was able to keep the team parachute.
The winning team had a hangtime of 4.19 seconds after dropped from the top of the playground equipment, which was approximately ten feet. The winning team in the creativity portion was chosen because they tried to use all the materials in creating something unique. The kids had fun and did a great job. With these activities, Mrs. Mwangi's students were introduced to the eMINTS instructional model of High Quality Lesson Design, Inquiry-Based Learning, Powered by Technology, and Classroom Community. Rather than giving students directions to create their parachute, they were given materials. Students chose how they wanted their parachute designed and problem solved how their design could be carried out. Reflection after each activity provides a learning experience for students.
To learn more about Mrs. Mwangi's class, visit her website at http://mwangi.weebly.com.
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