Exploring Hands-On Learning in the First Week of Alzarse Academy: Efficiency, Experimentation, and Growth

The first week of microschool has been an exhilarating adventure, packed with hands-on learning experiences that motivate our students to think critically and creatively. From testing how quickly tasks can be done to discovering scientific principles through experiments, this week has set a strong base for our future endeavors.

In this post, we will explore the various activities we engaged in, the theories we examined, and the valuable lessons we learned.

Testing Efficiency with a Fun Experiment

A highlight of the week was a simple yet effective experiment involving 10 cups arranged in a line. A boy and a girl each employed different strategies to complete a task using stacking these cups. This exercise was not solely about speed; it challenged students to critically consider how factors, such as gender, might influence performance in tasks requiring efficiency.

After completing the task, students examined the results and engaged in discussions reflecting on their findings. They debated whether gender impacted the speed of task completion. For instance, some students noted that the boy completed the task in 30 seconds while the girl finished in 40 seconds. This led to an engaging dialogue on various influences on performance in both academic and real-world scenarios.

Building and Testing Paper Gliders

Another engaging activity was the design and testing of paper gliders. Each student created their own glider, applying principles of aerodynamics and engineering. After constructing their gliders, they took them outdoors to test how far they could fly.

This hands-on experience made learning enjoyable while offering a practical application of scientific concepts. Students discovered that slight modifications could significantly affect performance; a student who adjusted their glider's weight by just 3 grams saw an increase in flight distance by 20%. Watching their creations take flight was truly a highlight.

Growing Bean Plants: A Lesson in Biology

In addition to the engineering challenges, we kicked off a project growing bean plants in various locations. This experiment focused on how different levels of light, heat, and humidity impact plant growth. Each student participated in every step, from planting seeds to observing growth changes over the week.

As students monitored their plants—some placed in bright sunlight and others kept in the shade—they gained insights into biological processes. For instance, plants exposed to 12 hours of sunlight daily grew an average of 50% taller than those with only 6 hours. This activity nurtured responsibility among students and enhanced their skills in making predictions and analyzing results.

Exploring Plant Cells Through Microscopy

In our recent study of plant cells and their organisms, we utilized samples from our garden, examining them closely under a microscope. This hands-on experience allowed us to observe the intricate structures of plant cells, such as cell walls, chloroplasts, and vacuoles. By comparing different plant specimens, we noted similarities in their cellular organization, while also identifying unique characteristics that distinguish various species. This comparative analysis deepened our understanding of plant biology and highlighted the diversity of life forms present in our own backyard.

Creating Strong Floating Devices

The week concluded with an exciting challenge where students had to build the best floating device using recyclable materials. This project fostered teamwork and innovation as students brainstormed and collaborated on their designs.

Once their devices were built, we tested their buoyancy by adding weights. The winning device held 5 pounds before sinking, showcasing excellent design and construction skills. This practical activity reinforced concepts of buoyancy and weight distribution and illustrated the importance of sustainability through the use of recycled items. The excitement in the room as students watched their creations perform was palpable.

A Celebration of Exploration and Learning

The first week of microschool was a whirlwind of exploration, experimentation, and growth. Through activities like testing efficiency, constructing paper gliders, growing bean plants, and designing floating devices, students learned in a dynamic, interactive environment.

These experiences ignited curiosity, fostered critical thinking, and encouraged collaboration. As we move ahead, we are excited to expand on this foundation and take on even more thrilling projects that will continue to educate and inspire our students.

If you’re seeking a unique learning experience for your child, consider joining our microschool. With hands-on activities and a commitment to experimentation, your child will flourish in an environment that promotes exploration and growth.

Let's embark on this educational adventure together!