Taking Our Creativity to New "Heights"

We started our day working individually on their first "hands-on" problem solving challenge. Using only one pair scissors, a one inch cube of clay, an 8.5x11 inch sheet of paper, two drinking straws, two folder labels and six popsicle sticks the students had to create the tallest, free standing structure possible. The base of the structure also had to fit within a five inch tape square on their table. They began by brainstorming designs on their planning form and they then were given twelve minutes to actually construct their tower. It is fun to see the room go completely silent as each student's brain is fully engaged in the task. The students used a variety of designs for their towers and, for the most part, were very successful. Our tallest tower, for this first attempt was over 70 cm!  They ended the task by evaluating their designs, construction and finished structure on their hands-on planning form.

To be successful, students must be fluent, flexible thinkers. They need a steady stream of ideas and they must be able to adapt and change direction or strategy as new problems arise. These tasks develop the skills needed to solve real world problems and provide wonderful opportunities for affective conversations. We discussed how individuals handle frustration and challenge, why some students quit and others persevere and how their classmates that struggle academically might feel on a regular basis. For some it is the "Ah Ha!" moment that enables them to empathize with their peers and avoid hurtful bragging.  Having said that, it takes a great deal of maturity and wisdom for an individual to celebrate their academic success in a way that does not make someone else feel less and so, the conversation continues...

Growing up in a culture where athletic, theatrical, musical and artistic "winners" are hailed with attention, applause, trophies and recognition it is only natural that students with academic gifts will initially seek that same response when they achieve a level of success. Although I find it to be hypocritical that is how the world is. I think it is our job as parents, teachers and advocates for bright children to guide them, model an appropriate level of humility and provide them opportunities to celebrate their success and receive genuine praise.


Next, we learned more about staying safe on the Internet while exploring the "Think U Know" website.  After our discussion, each student selected a different safety rule to illustrate to teach others about Internet safety.  These are on display outside of our classroom.

The students ended their day working on their individual problem solving work in the Math Rules program.

Have a great week!