Week 2: Recap

While we use the mornings to actively pursue knowledge in core subjects, we believe in supporting students as they pursue their deep interests. We also believe in opportunities for social engagement with intellectual peers which is challenging due to unique deep interests, asynchronous development, geographic location, and the COVID lockdown. To creatively address these challenges, we leverage enrichment activities in the afternoons to pursue passion projects with mentors. We are lucky to participate in a virtual program with coaches specializing in attachment-based learning for twice-exceptional students which allows E to dive deeply into his interests while being introduced to new topics in a safe environment through coaches he trusts.

During Week 2:

We setup E’s science lab space by 3d printing his custom logo for the wall
Began a deep dive into one of E’s interests - Rocks, Minerals, Geodes, and Birthstones
Spent time outdoors soaking in the last days of summer
Kicked off enrichments with a passion project around Japanese Calligraphy

Laboratory Signage

E created his own 3d Printed signage for the new Science Lab & Maker Space

Crystal Growing

Using a mixture of Borax and hot water, E grew a crystal on a pipe cleaner similar to the model shown on Generation Genius.

Types of Rocks

E sorted his rock collection by type of rock after watching several informative videos about the rock cycle.

Rock Cycle Diagram

E documented his understanding of the Rock Cycle on the vertical whiteboard for fine motor work.

Crystals

After studying rocks, E was excited to hold several crystals and notice the unique differences.

Summer Days

While we can still enjoy summer days, we did some exercise in the pool!

Sunscreen Experiment

Being in the pool opened the question of “What is that shiny stuff floating on the water around me?” E created an experiment to uncover what this substance could be…

Farewell Friend

E loves trees. Literally, he hugs them. This is a baby sycamore tree that we planted 3 years ago but was damaged in the hurricane a few weeks ago. Sadly, we said our farewells today since it has not survived the storm damage.

Math Sums

We are struggling to find the best tool for engaging E in math activities. Here he was challenged to find the value of the longest word he could find. We used popsicle sticks and grouping to support place value… E would still rather not engage. We will try a different approach.

Japanese Calligraphy

E has been fascinated with fonts for years. When I shared with him that Steve Jobs found his passion for design through calligraphy classes, he was excited to try them himself. This year, one of his enrichments is Japanese Calligraphy. Since many of his extended family speak Japanese, this could build an opportunity for engagement… and someday travel.