The Atlanta Journal Constitution – H.M. Cauley
“Each year, the three fourth-grade classes at the Epstein School in Sandy Springs spend time studying earthquakes, and the most popular part of the unit is a highly-anticipated activity involving 30 toothpicks and 30 marshmallows. Presented in the form of an architectural puzzle, the lesson always revolves around science, but this year, it took on a greater significance, pulling in world events and philanthropy as well. The challenge is for students to create a toothpick design that can withstand the onslaught of severe shaking. The goal is to come up with a two-story structure made with at least one triangle and one square that can remain intact when placed in a cart of Jello and shaken vigorously. “The unit is part of our [science, technology, engineering and math] piece that asks students to come up with something like a house or a bridge,” explained Gayle Harrell, the school’s elementary science specialist. “I’ve incorporated it over the last few years; I’m a strong STEM supporter, and for every unit, I try to have a science, technology or engineering component.” The 60 9- and 10-year-old students are just as taken with the fun of the project, added Harrell. “Even though they don’t have any blueprints or designs, they know how to put things together to make things work. They learn from one another; if theirs fell but another’s stood up, they do comparisons to find out what made one structure sturdier. And they’re excited when what they build stands up.” The exercise also requires critical thinking skills, problem-solving techniques and creativity. But this year, the lesson took on a special significance when an earthquake struck Nepal. Suddenly, a simple STEM project became a cross-curriculum exercise.”(more)