Upper School Scientists Share Carbon Cycle Children’s Books with Beasley Students

As they wrapped up learning in their Carbon Unit in Science 10 class, Upper School Science Teacher Stephanie Matteson’s students authored and illustrated children’s books. “Students learned about the Carbon Cycle and calculated the carbon sequestered in a tree on campus. They then explored deforestation,” said Matteson. “I was incredibly impressed with their hard work and creativity, and it shined in their finished books.

“The books that the Science 10 students produced were shared with their class during a project showcase, but I felt that they needed to reach a bigger audience. As a mom of two Lower School students, I am always hearing about their publishing parties, excitement for the library, and love of reading. It made me think there were opportunities for connection.”

 

In an effort to celebrate the work of the Upper School students, Matteson reached out to Laura Pupillo, Lower School Science Teacher, asking about opportunities for the Upper Schoolers to read their work to the Lower Schoolers. Pupillo connected with the first- through fourth-grade teachers, and they all welcomed the Science 10 students into their classrooms. A bonus was that the fourth graders had just learned about greenhouse gases and climate change, so the timing for that class was wonderful. Pupillo said, “Fourth-grade students will end the year creating and testing a solution for climate change, and these books provided such a great launch point into our upcoming projects!”

How wonderful it was for the Upper Schoolers to collaborate with the Lower Schoolers; after all, you really have mastered material when you can explain it so that a Lower Schooler can understand. What a fun and fruitful collaboration! “It went over so well with both the Upper School and Lower School students that we think we will make this a tradition!” said Matteson.