At SUIS Qingpu, students are given the opportunity to participate in two inquiry field trips each academic year. During these trips, students integrate the knowledge they have acquired from their inquiry units and apply it through on-site visits and experiences. This helps them to expand their perspectives and continue to learn beyond the classroom. By practicing what they have learned, they are able to refine and optimize their skills, and develop critical thinking abilities. Overall, these field trips provide a valuable opportunity for students to apply their knowledge and enhance their learning.
Our Extraordinary Journey at the Shanghai Natural History Museum
In the latest Global Perspectives unit of Grade 1, the students studied the various stages of human life. Their visit to the Shanghai Natural History Museum was an unforgettable adventure. As they walked through the grand doors, they knew they were about to experience something awe-inspiring and unique.
The students embarked on an incredible journey starting in the Exploration Labs, where they enjoyed interactive experiences by exploring the fascinating world of science.As they progressed deeper into the museum, they arrived at the central area, which was surrounded by interactive exhibits. The diverse range of exhibits left them completely awestruck. They embarked on a sensory adventure, where their senses were heightened and they were able to connect with their learning unit: Growing Up.
As the students navigated through the museum, they couldn’t help but be captivated by the animals of the world. The exhibits transported them to the enchanting landscapes of our natural world. The Shanghai Natural History Museum provided them with an extraordinary opportunity to align their field trip activities with their learning units. The Exploration Labs allowed them to examine the concept of My Life Stages, while the interactive exhibits catered to exploration of My Five Senses and deepened their understanding of animals and evolution.
As unconventional as it may seem, choosing a cake making factory for a field trip about diet and nutrition offered a unique opportunity to discuss the importance of balance and moderation in our diets. The students have been learning about different food groups, the significance of a well-rounded diet, and the role of sweets and treats. The visit to the cake factory allowed the students to see firsthand how treats are made and understand that they can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Designing Their Own Treats
Undoubtedly, the most exciting part of the trip was when every student got the chance to design their own mini-cake. This activity served two purposes: it reinforced the lesson of moderation by providing each child with a small cake and a limited number of toppings, while allowing them to apply their knowledge of healthy food choices in a real-world setting.
Peek into History at the Shanghai Auto Museum
Inquiry Journey of Chocolate and Trade at the Zotter Chocolate Theatre
Onsite Exploration and Reflection on future technology at the Shanghai Auto Museum
Over the past few weeks, Grade 5 students have been studying “The World of Work” in their classrooms. On Friday, 27 October, they had the opportunity to apply their newly-acquired skills in a different environment, by visiting the Shanghai Auto Museum.
Upon their arrival, the group was warmly welcomed by a team of friendly guides who assisted the students in revisiting their knowledge about technology. They were taken to three pavilions: the History Pavilion, the Collection Pavilion, and the Technology Pavilion. During the tour, the students had the opportunity to explore various automobiles that showcased over one hundred years of car development and also ask questions to the guides.
One of the highlights of the tour was the EV-Al Future Mobility Park where the students learned how technology is expected to replace certain jobs in the future. The Post Office section was particularly impressive, showcasing the advanced technology used to stamp letters. The charging points for electric cars also caught the attention of the students.
The trip was an unforgettable experience, filled with exciting moments and interesting facts. Based on the worksheets completed by the students during the trip, we are confident that they can now answer bigger questions like “How has technology changed people’s lives over the years?” and “Will technology take over our future?”
Participating in external projects offers students valuable opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life scenarios. These extracurricular activities reinforce and enhance learning beyond the classroom, and enable students to engage with the wider world, aligning with our core principle of “Think Globally, Act Locally.”