Rec Challenges / April 30 - May 4 / Greek Week

STEM Rec Challenges
April 30 - May 4

Greek Week!!


Experiential Learning Activity:
Phalanx Reenactment, Thursday, May 3rd

As part of Greek Week, we will be doing a unique experiential learning activity. On Thursday, 3 May, during each STEM REC period, students will be part of a reenactment of a Greek Phalanx (or ‘shield wall’).  This will happen in Gammon Park, just west of the school.

The Phalanx was a powerful force on the ancient battlefield, but also a profound influence on Greek society, culture and communities.  There were fundamental lessons learned by the ancient Greek hoplites (citizen-soldiers) as they stood together, shields interlocked, and faced their opposition head-on.  This experiential learning activity lets our students feel a little of what it would be like to stand and march in a Phalanx, and will instill some of those fundamental lessons of unity, mutual support, and courage.  

Many Franklin students have been creating shields out of cardboard and tape, painting them with colorful individualized designs. Parents and family members are encouraged to come watch the reenactment.  

These are the times for STEM-REC periods. Check your students’ schedules if you’re not sure when they are in STEM-REC:  

9:15-10:00, 10:00-10:45, 11:30-12:15, 12:15-1:00, 1:00-1:45, 1:45-2:00


Science
Mad for Archimedes. For Greek week we'll be learning about the ancient Greek scientist and mathematician Archimedes. Archimedes made many contributions to our understanding of the natural world one of which was how levers work. Students will learn about the parts of a lever, and what determines their mechanical advantage.

Social Studies
Greek Mythology. In ancient Greece there was a god to explain every natural phenomenon.  Everyone knows Zeus, Poseidon and Hades, but what about the rest of the Greek gods?  Have you met Boreas the god of the North wind? Perhaps Gelos, the god of laughter? Did you know that Nike was the goddess of victory? This week we'll say hello to some of the lesser known Greek gods and try our hand at mythology by creating our own.

Wellness
Greek Olympics. Ancient Greek city-states competed against each other at the first Olympics. This week in wellness students will enjoy competing against each other in the discus throw, foot races, and even a chariot race.  

Art
Greek Pottery.  The pottery of ancient Greece provides some of the most distinctive vase shapes from antiquity and some of the oldest and most diverse representations of the cultural beliefs and practices of ancient Greeks. In art this week, students will be introduced to the designs of ancient Greek pottery. They will explore geometric shapes with air-dry clay to make pinch pots.

Literacy
Fantastical Beasts. The Greeks created some of the most iconic and formidable monsters known in mythology.  In literacy students will hear stories of monsters and creatures of all kinds. They will then be challenged to create their own.
Technology
Ancient Military Industrial Complex. From crossbows to catapults, the Greeks were on the forefront of military engenuity. Students will explore the engineering principles used in making a catapult and similar military weapons.  



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May 6-10, 2019