Fifth Graders Creating Interactive Map of Israel

Over the course of the year, the fifth grade has been learning about the Israelites, from leaving slavery until they are outside the land of Canaan. As the culmination of their learning, each class is creating a large interactive map of Israel, “more like an exhibit,” explains teacher Jonathan Ferris. Four 4 foot by 6 foot panels will be put together to create the base of the map; students are using the CREATE space to build the other elements of their map, everything from Mt. Sinai and the parting of Red Sea to the 10 commandments and the Israelites themselves. Students are using art supplies—foam, paper, cardboard, hot glue, and wood—as well as small electronics—light bulbs, switches, power modules, and motors. Says one fifth grade student, “I am creating a mechanism that will allow Moses to put down his staff and part the Red Sea.”

 

Adds Mr. Ferris, “It is such a pleasure to provide a framework for students to be creative and use their knowledge gained from our studies this year and watch them bubble with enthusiasm at the project. They have taken true leadership over the direction the map is taking.” MORE PHOTOS