Small Creatures/Big Student-Learning
An early childhood lesson on cicadas showcases student-led learning and scientific exploration.
In South Louisiana, we all know the sound. A loud, resonating vibration that easily drowns out conversations. This time of year, cicadas are not subtle about making their presence known. Recently, this sound inspired an early childhood lesson showcasing the student-led learning and scientific exploration that make an Episcopal education so special.
The Hum of Curiosity
On the way to lunch, kindergarten students noticed a loud humming coming from trees on campus. They also found mysterious shells on the ground and in the shrubs. Curious and inquisitive, they wanted to know what made that sound and where the shells came from. The teacher was inspired and quickly worked with others to incorporate this student insect interest into the annual beginning-of-the-year science unit on the five senses. The adults researched cicadas – What exactly are they? How are they different from locusts? Why do they discard all of those shells? Within a few days, what started as curiosity was a full-fledged student-led science experience!
Later that week, when students arrived at the QUEST Center in Foster Hall, a space dedicated to project based and experiential learning, they were greeted with a lesson inspired by their noisy discovery. On a little table sat microscopes, brightly colored magnifying glasses and bugs! The five and six year olds were ecstatic.
“Insects!” “The cricket and the giant bug!”
As natural scientists, the early childhood students were eager to explore. Students compared and contrasted cicadas and locusts. They learned about the cicada lifecycle and discussed the shapes and colors of the shells. Students also expanded their vocabulary with new words like “burrow” and “insect” and learned to use a microscope. It was a joyful day of exploration.
A Buggy Lesson Highlights a Commitment to Excellence
Exploring the sights and sounds on campus showcases some of what makes Episcopal School of Baton Rouge an exceptional learning experience. Learning occurs in classrooms, gardens, labs, fields, art rooms and beyond. Students benefit from the following:
- Student-led learning that allows for deeper learning and immersive experiences
- Small class sizes that inspire flexibility and personalization in lessons
- Outstanding teachers who know students and their interests
- A PreK-3 – 12th grade learning environment that builds as students progress Inspiring facilities that make learning fun
Learn More
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https://www.episcopalbr.org/admission/welcome-to-admission.
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