Outside the Box – Ashley Bleeker
RSI field trips strengthen student learning outcomes through partnering fun experiences with hands-on, immersive opportunities. Students from the C7 class up to the C10 class viewed artifacts from ancient China, gaining a greater depth of learning in conjunction with their classroom curriculum.
Students noticed items such as ancient pottery with beautifully painted designs and jade bowls used in creating calligraphy. Tour guides explained how cultures mixed through the Silk Road, showing how symbols from other countries made their way into Chinese culture, as displayed on engraved bronze mirrors. Court gowns, intricately embroidered with dragons, showed the students the wealth of those who wore them.
Students also enjoyed the second part of their field trip as they tried their hand at Chinese Scroll Painting, informed by traditional techniques. They began with a Chinese character and then chose artwork to display its meaning. Many students decided to paint the character meaning tiger in honor of the Chinese zodiac for 2022. Others selected characters that represent peace, courage, and flowers. Not only was this incredibly engaging for the students it also helped ground their learning in a more tactile way.
At RSI, we believe that education should involve students having fun! It not only helps students to enjoy their learning, but it also helps them become increasingly involved in their education. It sparks curiosity and interest within them, leading to enhanced learning outcomes. When students can learn through immersive and active methods, they become more present in the process.
