This week is Explorers Week, when National Geographic brings together some of the most interesting scientists and explorers making a difference in the world today.
In honor of the occasion, the Education team challenged a group of local teachers to design an end-of-year project focusing on one of National Geographic’s 2016 Emerging Explorers. We’ll be sharing their class’ stories all week on the Education Blog.
Educators: Josh McLaughlin and Megan Huneck
Emerging Explorer Studied: Yukinori Kawae
Grade Level: 2
School: Barrett Elementary in Arlington, Virginia
Josh on his and Megan’s project:
My colleague and I worked with a class of 2nd graders to investigate Yukinori Kawae’s pyramid research. We played a Egyptian pyramid game and watched Mr. Kawae’s “Pyramid Quest” TED Talk along with a viewing guide to begin gathering biographical information, facts about the problem Kawae is trying to solve, and details about the tools and actions he is using.
Over the next week, our students analyzed, categorized, and synthesized their collected information and created videos that tell a compelling story about Mr. Kawae. Students also contributed to his research by creating 3D models of pyramids and pyramid towns/living quarters.
Want more Explorers Week brain food? Join us here or follow us on Facebook and Twitter for our Explorers Week 2016, June 13-17. It’s an exciting opportunity to connect with National Geographic scientists, conservationists, and storytellers. Learn about their latest discoveries and adventures, participate virtually in inspiring presentations, and join the important conversation about how we can all make a difference in our world.