Faith Meets Creativity: Students Bring Stations of the Cross to Life in 3D

Last week, the JPII 6th grade combined their love of science and faith in creating 3D projects. The students made observations and mapped the Stations of the Cross area at our school and then together with a partner, turned their maps into 3D models. According to JPII MS science teacher Nicole Schatzle, her students were conscientious and diligent on their projects. "They did a gallery walk and left each other notes of positivity." 

Multidisciplinary projects play a crucial role in today's education environment, as they encourage students to integrate knowledge and skills from various subjects. "By combining different disciplines—like science, faith, and art in this case—students gain a deeper understanding of how these fields interconnect in the real world," said Mrs. Schatzle. "Projects like these not only enrich academic learning but also enhance critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, all of which are essential for success in both school and future careers"

Hands-on projects, such as creating 3D models, allow students to express their creativity while applying the knowledge they’ve gained in a tangible, meaningful way. "This approach engages students on a deeper level, promoting active learning rather than passive absorption of information, noted Mrs. Schatzle. "The 6th grade science class at JPII exemplified this by turning their observations of the Stations of the Cross into creative models, collaboration, and peer feedback." Mrs. Schatzle also thanked the JPII faculty and staff who brought in items for the students to use.

Eggs and Inquiry: 6th Graders Hatch New Ideas in the Lab

The 6th graders have been "egg-sploring" the world of scientific inquiry, and recently they cracked open the secrets to what makes a science experiment "egg-citing" and successful. "Using the scientific method, they scrambled their thoughts to write a question and hypothesis, then got to work on their 'egg-speriment'," said Mrs. Schatzle." The test? Investigating the effects of sugar water on raw eggs!

At the conclusion of their lab, the students were "egg-cited" to take things to the next level. According to Mrs. Schatzle, "students were challenged to change one of their variables and hatch a new question and hypothesis." That’s when they came up with a truly "egg-ceptional" idea—testing the effects of vinegar on a raw egg! The process is now underway, and students will continue to make observations, eagerly awaiting the results of their "egg-periment." Stay tuned!!