Session 6: Year 7, WeeK 31 In Review

 

From TED Talks to Wildlife Walks: Learners Take on Real-World Challenges


spark studio

This week, our shares were better than ever, thanks to the new guidelines! Learners were more thoughtful and intentional in their presentations, sharing fun facts and engaging their peers in meaningful discussions. It was exciting to see their confidence grow as they expressed themselves more clearly and purposefully.

In art, Learners explored the work of Georgia O’Keeffe, immersing themselves in her unique style. They discovered how she used color and form to bring nature to life and expressed their own emotions through creative projects. It was inspiring to see their interpretations and enthusiasm for learning about a new artist!

Our focus on grace and courtesy went beyond simple table manners. Learners practiced using kind words, making eye contact, and being aware of how their actions impact others. We emphasized moving with intention—walking slowly and carefully, pulling out chairs gently, and handling materials with respect. These small yet powerful actions help create a mindful and considerate learning environment.

We also expanded our cultural awareness, learning how to say "hello" in multiple languages, thus opening doors to new friendships. Additionally, we explored global celebrations happening this week, including Ramadan, Mardi Gras, and Lent, deepening our understanding of different traditions around the world.

Next week, our letter is R!

Looking forward to another week of growth and discovery!


lower elementary studio

Congratulations to Our New Council Members!

We are thrilled to announce the election of our new Studio Council members! Please join us in congratulating Ian, Grace, Wyatt, Calvin, and Ella! They have shown great leadership skills and enthusiasm, and we’re excited to see how they’ll help guide our Studio this session.

Podcast Episode Scripts in Story Arts

In our Story Arts lessons, students have begun crafting their podcast episode scripts. It’s been an incredible opportunity for them to express their creativity and storytelling abilities. We can’t wait to see how these scripts develop into something amazing!

Special Visit from Dr. Michael Kohl

We were fortunate to have a visit from Dr. Michael Kohl, a wildlife management expert and professor. He shared his extensive knowledge about Georgia’s native wildlife, giving students a deeper understanding of the animals and ecosystems that surround us. It was a hands-on learning experience that left everyone inspired!

Exploring Major World Civilizations

To wrap up this week’s lessons, we will dive into the fascinating history of major world civilizations. Learners will explore the rise and fall of some of history’s most influential societies and how their legacies still impact us today. It’s an exciting opportunity to understand the world’s past in a meaningful way.

We hope you’re as excited as we are about all the great things happening in our Studio this week! Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for your continued support.

Just for Fun News!

Mrs. Brooke rescued two teeth from the trash. Yay for Ian and Tyus, who now owe Mrs. Brooke a cut of their tooth money!!


upper elementary studio

Wildlife, Wayfinders, and Teamwork: A Week of Exploration in Session 6

Session 6 has continued to be a blast this week as our young wildlife biologists had the incredible opportunity to meet with Dr. Kohl from the University of Georgia, a wildlife biologist dedicated to the study of Georgia’s native species. Dr. Kohl shared fascinating insights into his research on black bears and diamondback rattlesnakes, giving learners a firsthand look into what it means to be a wildlife biologist. He brought an array of samples—hides, skulls, and other specimens—for learners to examine, sparking curiosity and deep discussions. Dr. Kohl was thoroughly impressed with the learners’ knowledge and thoughtful questions, noting how advanced their understanding was at such an early stage in our Quest.

Meanwhile, in Civ, learners embarked on a journey across the Pacific, tracing the migration paths of the Austronesian peoples. They explored how these master navigators used the stars, ocean currents, and other natural tools to sail vast distances, connecting islands across the Pacific. Learners also studied Polynesian myths about constellations used for navigation and compared them to Greek myths about the same star formations, deepening their understanding of how different cultures interpret the night sky.

In Story Arts, teamwork took center stage. Learners engaged in collaborative activities designed to strengthen communication and problem-solving skills, gaining firsthand experience in what it means to work effectively as a team. A special highlight was meeting with a strength and conditioning coach who trains professional athletes. He shared why team-building activities are crucial not only in sports but in any collaborative setting, reinforcing the idea that success is built on trust, strategy, and shared effort.

It’s been another exciting and enriching week in Session 6, and we can’t wait to see where our learners’ curiosity takes them next!


middle school studio

Middle School Heroes Take on Leadership, Creativity, and Real-World Challenges

This week, our Middle School heroes took major steps in leadership, creativity, and problem-solving as they tackled real-world challenges and prepared to share their voices with the world.

In Quest, learners worked on creating operational and budget plans for their proposed food desert and food swamp interventions, considering logistics, costs, and impact. Their solutions ranged from mobile markets to community gardens, all designed to bring fresh, healthy food to underserved areas.

In Story Arts, heroes began shaping their TED Talk speeches by writing detailed outlines and brainstorming creative ways to structure their TED Talk Showcase. They explored storytelling techniques that will engage and inspire their audience.

Civ was packed with exploration and discovery as learners played a geography game and took a deep dive into Ancient Indian society and the Vedic religion, uncovering how these early civilizations shaped culture, philosophy, and governance.

A new Council was elected, bringing fresh leadership and ideas to the Studio! We are excited to see how they will serve and lead the community.

Finally, a reminder that Conference Signups are now live—don’t miss your chance to connect and reflect on your hero’s growth!

Stay tuned for more updates as our learners continue to challenge themselves and the world around them!


high school studio

High School Studio: Innovation, Iteration, and Real-World Learning

This week in the High School Studio, our High School Heroes dove into the patent process, breaking down what it truly takes to get an idea patented and approved. They explored the dedication, precision, and creativity required to bring an invention to life. With this knowledge in hand, they worked on their own projects, developing first and second iterations of their designs—learning firsthand that innovation is an evolving process.

On Wednesday, students stepped into the real world of vehicle ownership, working in pairs to navigate the complexities of purchasing and maintaining a car. From budgeting to understanding long-term costs, they gained practical financial skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

Looking Ahead: Join the "Truth on Two Wheels" Movement!

Next week, we’re calling on High School Heroes to join the Truth on Two Wheels bike movement! Our High School Guides will lead a bike bus, picking up learners who live in Trilith on Wednesday and Friday at 8:00 AM. This is a fantastic opportunity to promote sustainability, build community, and start the day with energy and movement.

Encourage your hero to be part of the movement—let’s ride together!


 
Tyler Thigpen