Learning by doing in Science
The IMYC programme focuses a great deal on experiential learning. This is an active form of learning where students learn through experience – which is followed by reflection on what they have been doing. This is very different from rote or didactic learning, where the student is more passive. Research indicates that experiential learning is more effective and meaningful for the student, and longer lasting.
In the first half-term, the students in Years 7, 8 and 9 were involved in a great deal of ‘hands-on’ work in the Science laboratory. In interactive situations like this progress and understanding are evident – and the students enjoy being directly involved in their own learning, rather than simply being passive ‘receivers’.
Three new IMYC units
After the mid-term break, Years 7, 8 and 9 will be starting on three new IMYC
units, each with its own Big Idea.
Year 9 - Development
‘Long lasting changes take place slowly over time’.
For the Entry Point to this unit, the students will be visiting the Museum of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent at the organisation’s headquarters in Geneva. They will have a guided tour, tracing the development of the organisation from its origins the to the present day. This is a fascinating opportunity of the students to get some in-depth knowledge of this world famous organisation, inspired by a young Swiss man called Henry Dunant in 1859.
Year 8 - Reflection
‘Complex decision-making requires space and time’.
For their Entry Point, Year 8 will be looking at examples of complex decision- making in 20thCentury world history, centring on global conflict. This will involve researching key aspects of World War 2 where planning and decision-making changed the course of world history.
Year 7 - Adaptability
‘Adaptability is demonstrated by the ability to change, alter or cope with new environments or circumstances’.
The Entry Point for Year 7 will involve a visit to the Natural History Museum of Geneva. Here they will be researching a variety of ways in which animals have adapted to their environment and evolved in such a way that they are able to survive. This outstanding museum will provide the students with real-world examples of adaptability in action. It will also heighten their awareness of the importance of biodiversity and the need to protect the natural environment.
