The project grew out of a 6th Grade science unit on plant reproduction. Before Winter Break, students left potatoes in jars of water, and watched as they sprouted buds and roots, an example of asexual reproduction. By the spring, the potatoes were ready to plant, to produce yet more potatoes, and the garden on Cowper provided the perfect place for them to grow.
When they traveled to Cowper, the middle schoolers brought fresh lilies along with them, in addition to their sprouting potatoes. They dissected the blooms in small groups with the Kindergarteners, to explain the different parts that make up a flower. Outside in the garden, they taught the Kindergarteners about how potatoes grow, and planted the potatoes in the garden plot.
Teaching the Kindergarteners proved to be a memorable and educational experience for the Middle Schoolers. Cyprien B. says, “It was fun to plant and work with people smaller than us, and see how they think and respond to us.”
Céliane A. adds, “It was fun being with them and seeing them participate. We acted like teachers and got to teach, so it was a new experience. I hope they learned a lot and enjoyed the activity as much as we did.”
Elisabeth agrees that the experience was a great success. “I saw smiles on everyone’s faces, and students were very enthusiastic and focused on teaching. I would definitely love to collaborate more with Cowper Campus in the future.”
*In 2020, the International School of the Peninsula (ISTP) formally changed its name to Silicon Valley International School (INTL) to better reflect its bilingual programs, location, and international values.