Past Projects
BIOLOGY
Jurassic Park Project - After reading the book and watching the film, students were tasked with creating a diorama of Jurassic Park. They had to identify and address one of the many problems associated with such a park and propose a solution.
Rope Sandals - The project served a dual purpose. Initially, it was a practical lesson in metric conversions and the significance of adhering to lab instructions. Subsequently, it evolved into an activity centered on evolution and Darwinian concepts. Two biology classes simulated the experience of early humans migrating in search of sustenance across unknown climates and terrains. They were challenged to fashion sandals out of raw materials with only primitive tools to safeguard their feet during the arduous trek. The class that crafted the most functional sandals in the shortest time was deemed the "survivor," gaining extra points, while the other class was labeled "extinct," earning no additional points.
Another Project was the Andromeda Strain-simulation I called the OMEGA Project. Ask me about that one. I need gto find my Pictures. ;)
Earth/Space Science
The Cave Lab - I transform my classroom into a cave simulation. As students enter, they must crawl through "a mine" entrance. Armed with only a small pen flashlight, they navigate a cold, damp cave, complete with the sound of rushing water, where stalagmites and stalactites abound. Their task is to search for and identify various rocks and minerals. Hidden treasures like jewelry and cave paintings await discovery, prompting students to make inferences about the climate early humans lived in and potential food sources, as suggested by the cave art and clothing remnants they encounter. This immersive experience has been a huge hit for over 20 years at Comsewogue High School.
Physics.
Space Day - Cross-Subject Project: In Biology, we designed space-friendly food and developed exercise routines for astronauts. In Earth Science, we focused on ground tracking and satellite recovery. In Physics, we designed and built satellites (rockets), trained for Astronaut and Mission Control roles, and executed a space mission in a simulated shuttle craft on Space Day. The shuttle, measuring 22 feet in length and 8 feet in width, was electronically wired, allowing us to observe the correct switch activations from Mission Control, located 20 feet away.Biology - designed space friendly food and made exercise routine for astronauts.
Earth Science - were ground tracking and satellite recovery .Physcs- Designed and built satellites (rockets), trained for Astronaut and Mission Control, carried out space mission in simulated shuttle craft on Space Day. The Shuttle was 22 feet long and 8 ft wide and electrionically wired so that when switches were tossed properly I was able to see that at mission control, 20 feet away.
Study of Motion and Forces (A.K.A. The Ballet/Martial Arts Project)
Ballet and Jiu-Jitsu were chosen as subjects to study motion and forces. Measurements of static and kinetic friction were taken for both canvas and leather ballet slippers, and the students' center of mass was determined. Following a 1.5-hour ballet lesson at a local dance studio, the movements were analyzed in our physics class.
THERE ARE MANY MORE to my project collection but these are the extremes. Hope you liked seeing them and I hope you will ask me about them.