Sloan Semester

Education is one of the essential elements in a child’s development. With their naturally curious and enthusiastic natures, they quickly absorb information given to them. Why not make the learning process a bit more fun? School projects should be designed to educate and will promote a deeper understanding when the child enjoys the project.

Through creative school projects, children will better understand their subjects. For example, if children are learning about the solar system, it makes sense for them to make a model solar system. If they’re learning about biology or human physiology, a 3D pop out makes a better school project than a one-dimensional layout. How about reading? To bring a story to life, try having the children paint a picture based on the words in a book.

School projects are best planned along with regular assignments. Book assignments go hand in hand with an essay. Take this ho-hum assignment and ask for a painting or drawing in addition to the essay. Tell the children to pick a paragraph of their choice from the book, and draw what that paragraph describes. This will develop a good sense of visual observation.

Here’s a great idea for a science school project. Let’s say the class is studying the solar system. Instead of using a book with a one-dimensional representation of the solar system, have them construct a mobile scale model of the solar system. All you need is some copper wire, string and modeling clay. The children can shape the clay into balls, representing the sun and planets in relative proportion to their size. Each may be painted in appropriate colors. Copper wire is inserted into each of the planets and the sun. When complete, suspend from the ceiling with string.

You may be surprised to know that Zoology can be a child’s favorite science subject and begs for creative school projects. They love animals! PBS, the Discovery channel and Animal Planet often have excellent presentations on animals. This school project is a winner with kids. Tell them to choose a program on their animal of choice and then make a presentation in class.

For example, a presentation on a frog may include types of frogs, their environment and needs, anatomy, natural enemies and so forth. One child may choose to make a