Seeking Diverse Global Perspectives from Authentic Learning Experiences – SUIS Qingpu Inquiry Field Trips

Grade 1 Field Trip: Art-M

This semester, Grade 1 students learned about the environmental theme of fruits and vegetables in our inquiry classes! In conjunction with the inquiry unit, we visited Amate Farm to conduct on-the-spot exploration and learning, truly combining and applying knowledge with practice.

We first visited the farmland, transforming ourselves into hard-working “little farmers”. The instructors introduced different vegetables and insects to the students and conducted a “treasure hunt” activity, step-by-step turning them into agricultural experts. Then, the children learned how to plant corn—from digging the soil to sowing, burying, and watering—each step deepening their appreciation of the hard work involved in planting. This experience laid the foundation for our next unit—Vegetables and Fruits.

After exploring the farmland, the students visited on-site carpentry and pottery production. They discovered that exquisite work requires meticulous polishing at every step, leaving them astounded.

Following lunch, the students engaged in special handicraft activities, such as weaving with wild rice leaves, plant rubbings, and making wooden rocking chairs. These were challenging yet enjoyable tasks, which the students aimed to complete using a variety of materials to create intricate details.

The students relished the process of weaving their favourite animals from wild rice leaves, a craft that is part of China’s intangible cultural heritage. They admired the craftsmen and teachers’ skills, and the students themselves were soon becoming craftspeople!

The plant rubbing activity helped students better understand the environmental protection concept of “Reuse” and decorated unique, environmentally friendly cloth bags with small flowers. When our students carry them out on the street, they will definitely be the most beautiful ones!

The production of wooden rocking chairs also allowed children to think more about the process and patience it takes to make such beautiful creations. “Can we do it by ourselves?” Maybe I can. “Can we do it as a team?” We definitely can!

The inquiry field trip was happy and fulfilling. The students walked out of the classroom and entered the “World Classroom” to combine their theoretical knowledge with practice, making themselves more curious and understanding the world better – igniting their passion for learning and creation!

Grade 2 Field Trip to The Bund:

Exploring Shanghai’s Urban Evolution

Recently, SUIS QingPu Grade 2 students embarked on an inquiry-based exploration of The Bund, one of Shanghai’s most iconic landmarks, to examine its architectural evolution and changing transportation methods. The experience provided a hands-on learning opportunity that bridged classroom concepts with real-world observations.

Observing Architectural Transitions and Transportation Trends

As they walked along The Bund’s promenade, their teacher pointed out key architectural styles defining the area. They observed historic buildings with classical facades reflecting the colonial era when Shanghai was a bustling international port. The students then turned their attention to the east bank of the Huangpu River where modern skyscrapers like the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Jin Mao Tower, and the Shanghai Tower stand—a stark contrast to the historical architecture of The Bund. This comparison highlighted Shanghai’s transformation over the decades.

Moreover, the students explored how transportation in the area has evolved from rickshaws, trams, and ferries to modern vehicles, subways, and high-speed trains. The iconic Huangpu River ferry, though still operational, now mainly serves as a tourist attraction.

A Rainy Detour: The Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center

The rainy weather prompted a visit to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center, where students engaged with detailed models and interactive displays, deepening their understanding of urban planning and architecture.

Here, the students were able to engage directly with detailed models of both old and new buildings in Shanghai. The exhibition provided a comprehensive overview of how the city’s skyline has evolved and offered insights into the development of its transportation network.

Interactive displays and virtual tours at the center showed the intricate planning behind the city’s sprawling metro system and the transformation of transportation routes over the decades. This visit deepened the students’ understanding of urban planning and architecture, contextualizing the observations they had made at the Bund.

Reflecting on the Day

As the day ended, the students gathered to discuss their findings and reflect on the vast urban changes they had witnessed. The combination of walking through The Bund and visiting the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center offered them a fuller picture of how history, technology, and forward-thinking design have shaped one of the world’s most vibrant cities.

This field trip not only enriched the students’ knowledge but also sparked their curiosity about the future possibilities in urban planning and architecture. With new insights and inspired imaginations, they returned to school, eager to learn more about the potential of cities like Shanghai to blend the old with the new in harmonious and innovative ways.

Grade 3 Field Trip:

Fengxian Planning Resource Museum

Last week, our Grade 3 students embarked on an exciting journey to the Fengxian Planning Resource Museum. This outing marked the culmination of our exploration into global perspectives, merging themes of sustainable development and urban planning right here in Shanghai.

Our students delved into the world of sustainable living and urban design, drawing connections between their studies on The Three R’s and the creation of shelter and homes. Upon entering the museum, they were greeted with a wealth of information showcasing how Fengxian’s geographical features, such as its proximity to the sea and surrounding waterways, have profoundly influenced the design and development of its towns and villages throughout history. From the incorporation of water towns to the construction of resilient seawalls and bridges, every aspect of the district’s architecture highlighted its adaptability to location. Moreover, our students gained a deeper appreciation of how these architectural marvels cater not only to the needs of their citizens but also serve as crucial defences against natural disasters.

In conclusion, our visit to the Fengxian Planning Resource Museum was an enriching adventure that brought classroom learning to life. It reinforced the importance of sustainable development and thoughtful urban planning in shaping both the local and global world around us. As we returned to our classrooms, we carried with us a newfound understanding of how our actions today can create a brighter future tomorrow.

Grade 4 Field Trip:

Shanghai History Museum

This semester, our Grade 4 students studied the concept of “Community” in both immediate and wider contexts. With this in mind, we chose to visit the Shanghai History Museum to better understand the history of our city and the community that has evolved as a result of its explosive growth and development.

In the museum, our children were amazed to find that Shanghai has not always been the vibrant and cosmopolitan community it has evolved into today – in fact, Shanghai’s development as a city is a relatively recent phenomenon in the long and storied history of China. Early Shanghai communities were mostly centred around what is known today as the district of Songjiang, not the “City Centre” as we recognise it today.

The artifacts displayed delineated the history of early Shanghai – an agrarian, loose-knit group of peoples – and the kind of society they lived in. We were fortunate to see artifacts dating back centuries, preserved for posterity to improve our understanding of future generations. The students remarked enthusiastically that valuing the preservation of the past is an important virtue, enabling us to learn how our sense of community has evolved over the years.

Another key factor in the students’ learning was the enthusiasm of the teachers – with a well-prepared and visual booklet guiding them through the experience, the students learned about the first bank that was open 24 hours a day in the city, the copper coins used as currency, and the introduction of telephones beginning in 1870. They concluded that communication – whether through telephones or newspapers published on old Wanping Street – is a vital ingredient in the survival and success of any community, ancient or modern.

After a fun morning visiting the museum, the students travelled to nearby People’s Park for a well-earned rest and lunch. Reviewing the importance of mental and physical health, which we had studied in our previous Global Perspectives unit, the children enjoyed a sunny walk under leafy trees to reinvigorate their mental health after so much learning. They considered the importance of public goods such as museums and well-maintained parks in the inner city, especially in light of Shanghai’s rapid development.

Grade 5 Field Trip: Shanghai Fire Station

This semester, the exploration theme for Grade 5 at SUIS Qingpu is “The Wisdom of Water.” To deepen students’ understanding and engagement with this topic, weplanned a professional visit and practical learning session at the Shanghai Fengxian Fire Training Base on 25 April for all Grade 5 students and teachers.

During this educational trip, Mr. Wang, the Fire Chief, imparted fundamental fire safety knowledge to the students in a humorous and simple way. They witnessed the rapid donning of gear by firefighters, highlighting the urgency and precision required in firefighting operations. Additionally, the students were captivated by the impressive skills demonstrated by well-trained police dogs.

A standout feature of the trip was the simulation of a cinema fire scenario, a unique experience nationwide. This immersive activity allowed students to learn essential survival and evacuation techniques in a vivid and practical manner. In addition to this, the students participated in a fire escape drill in a simulated residential building, further understanding self-rescue and mutual-rescue measures in fire emergencies.

Another component of the training included lessons on different knot-tying techniques, teaching students the practical applications of various knots in emergency situations. Through comprehensive hands-on practice and realistic scenario simulations, Grade 5 students enhanced their understanding of fire safety and emergency response skills, thus laying a solid foundation for creating a safe learning and living environment.

This field trip not only allowed students to witness the exemplary demeanour of firefighters, but also equipped them with essential fire safety knowledge and emergency handling skills. The aim was to foster their abilities in prevention and response when facing unexpected challenges. The exploration began with the theme of ‘water,’ but through various practical activities at the fire station, we have transcended this initial focus. This comprehensive educational approach has not only broadened the students’ academic horizons, but also deepened their understanding of safety, responsibility, and the interconnectedness of the natural world.