Mrs. Nicole Schatzle’s 6th-grade science class has been shaking things up—literally! Students have been diving into the dynamic world of earthquakes, exploring the forces that cause our planet’s crust to tremble and crack. To bring their lessons to life, students applied their knowledge in an exciting hands-on lab activity: designing and building earthquake-resistant structures using toothpicks and marshmallows.

The "tectonic testing ground"? A pan of Jello! This wiggly medium mimicked the fragility and unpredictability of Earth’s crust, allowing students to see how their creations would stand up to simulated seismic activity. The fun didn’t stop there—students were encouraged to refine their designs, incorporating trial and error to create sturdier structures.

"This activity isn’t just about making marshmallow masterpieces; it’s an essential lesson in engineering, problem-solving, and resilience," said Mrs. Schatzle. "Students learned about structural stability, the science behind seismic waves, and how small adjustments can make a big impact. These concepts are critical in understanding real-world challenges, like building infrastructure in earthquake-prone areas."

By engaging in this lab, students are also developing future-ready skills: critical thinking, adaptability, and teamwork. "Whether or not they pursue careers in science or engineering, these life skills will serve them well in any field," noted Mrs. Schatzle.

Thanks to Mrs. Schatzle’s innovative teaching, her students are not just learning about the earth—they’re learning how to shake up their understanding of it!