MYP 1 Science Understanding through Mesocosm - Eshita Chatterjee

Objective of the Learning Engagement

To understand and study interactions(RC) between various factors in the ecosystem (KC) and how interaction of factors contribute and affect to the maintaining of balance (RC) in the ecosystem, by observing and recording data of their self created scientific tool-Mesocosm (GC).

Details of the Learning Engagement:

Students were given opportunity to create their own scientific tools, Mesocosm & a Scientific Journal. A prior knowledge about the mesocosm was developed through inquiry based learning in class, in the context of sustainability. Learning experiences were created to provide guidance for making of mesocosm and further evaluate the significance of this scientific tool. Following that, students made their own mesocosms to study the interactions between various factors and how it affects the balance in the system, through observation. They are encouraged to record their observations in the scientific journal for minimum period of two weeks.

Impact of the engagement on students and my reflection as a teacher:

As students of grade 6 study about the environment through their Unit “ How do we study the living world ?” Young scientists of Grade 6 could explore, observe, understand and relate to System ( KC) and balance& Interaction( RC), under the context of Scientific & technical innovation. Through observation, they understood how various factors affect the balance of self sustained ecosystem and the larger ecosystem, our planet.

As a facilitator, I was thrilled and encouraged to see the enthusiasm and joy in the young scientists, as they exhibited their creative and self management skills. We could also engage in meaningful classroom discussions on the reasons for changing environment of the globe and provide a stimulus to their thinking skills.

- Eshita Chatterjee