China Museum 2013!

The ancient dynasties of China were colorfully brought to life and exhibited by our talented, hard working third grade during the second week of February.

A grand celebration filled the classrooms and hallways for two days, with students thoughtfully presenting their projects and those of their classmates.  Notably on display was the enthusiasm that comes with a broad, group effort made possible by the team work of students, teachers and school staff.

I was introduced to the Silk Road by Gus and Olivia, who took me through the expansive trade route covering thousands of miles in a three dimensional map.  Truth, Lucy and Reed shared student-made replicas of the Terra Cotta Warriors from 210 BCE, that were created to protect the emperor in his afterlife.  Tyler and Sophia taught me about rice farming and the lives of the field workers through a real grass field.

Terracotta warrior replica

Laila, Anna and Joshua presented detailed models of scholar's gardens, where nature and literature were the focus. Tiago and Supreme told of Qin Shi Huang and his palace guards.  A demonstration of paper making was performed by Nia and Naiela, encouraging young visiting hands to participate.   

Scholar's garden

Palace guards

Papermaking

Silk worms

From the vivacious shadow puppet show to focused calligraphy lessons, and from the hand made pottery to the quiz show games, the children enjoyed meticulously sharing their studies as much as I enjoyed taking them in.  

Shadow puppet play

Calligraphy and ink painting

Ceramic plates

The China Museum of the third grade was a joyful example of the project based educational philosophy at BNS and how engaging learning through a multitude of forms can done.

Justin Weiner

Proud Dad of Tyler, Steve's Class

What did you see at the China Museum? What would you like to know more about?