Read Ms Sophia's Inspiring Science Lesson Story

As Ms. Sophia, a member of the EduLert community, I had the distinct pleasure of conducting a science lesson with a Grade 6 class at a local international school in Vietnam, following the Cambridge International curriculum. The experience was not only enriching but also profoundly inspiring, showcasing the potential of young minds when nurtured in a stimulating and supportive educational environment.

The class consisted of a diverse group of enthusiastic students, each bringing their unique perspectives and cultural insights. Our focus for the lesson was on renewable energy, a topic of critical importance in our modern world. The objective was to understand the principles of renewable energy sources and their impact on our environment.

To engage the students, I initiated the lesson with a short, animated video that outlined the basics of renewable energy. The room buzzed with excitement as the students watched wind turbines and solar panels come to life on screen. Building on this enthusiasm, I introduced the main activity of the day: constructing miniature wind turbines using simple materials such as paper, straws, and rubber bands.

The students were divided into small teams, fostering collaboration and communication skills. Each team was tasked with designing and building a wind turbine that could lift a small object off the ground. The air was filled with creativity and innovation as the students experimented with different designs and materials.

What made this activity particularly successful was the blend of practical, hands-on learning with theoretical knowledge. Students were actively applying concepts of physics and engineering, understanding through real-world application how wind energy can be harnessed. The excitement was palpable as each team tested their turbines, with cheers erupting every time a turbine successfully lifted the object.

Throughout the lesson, I encouraged the students to think critically about the advantages and challenges of renewable energy. We had a vibrant discussion about the environmental impact of different energy sources and the role of technology in sustainable development. The students' insightful questions and thoughtful responses reflected their deep engagement with the topic.

One of the most rewarding moments came towards the end of the class when a student shyly approached me. In halting English, she expressed how the lesson had inspired her to think about a career in environmental science. Her eyes shone with the kind of curiosity and passion that educators strive to ignite in their students.

As the lesson concluded, the sense of achievement and excitement in the classroom was evident. Not only had the students gained valuable scientific knowledge, but they had also developed skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

This experience at the international school in Vietnam was a testament to the power of interactive, hands-on learning in fostering academic curiosity and enthusiasm. It was a clear demonstration of how a well-structured and engaging lesson can inspire students to explore new fields and dream big about their future contributions to the world.