"In 1st grade we did the derby race," recalled 3rd grader Andrew. "This year we are doing the parachute drop."
Spirit Week took flight in the Lower School as students designed parachutes for this year's Lower School Design Challenge.
"We were eager to have the build back on campus again," shared Lower School Technology Coach Kim Farrell '84. "We brainstormed options and the parachute idea literally and figuratively took flight."
"Mine is made out of a strong paper towel, strong string, and a mini cup," explained Andrew.
"I used a trash bag and straws to support it," said Hope. "I also have string and duct tape and a plastic cup that I cut in half."
Students collected recycled materials to build their unique parachute. The base structure was required to carry a 10 gram weight. All parachutes were built during class time. The objective? Design a parachute that will float the longest in the air.
"The idea was to have the students and faculty design parachute prototypes to participate in a 'float off.' The winner is the last parachute to touch the ground," said Mrs. Farrell.
The parachute drop took place in the lobby of the Dixon Athletic Center on Wednesday, Nov. 10.
"Whoa!" roared a class of 2nd graders as parachutes floated to the ground.
"What did I forget to do?" asked Mak.
"Are you testing it Brandon?" asked 3rd grade teacher Iman Mitchell. "Yes, but mine is going down like a torpedo," observed Brandon.
"The kids were excited to use some of their design thinking strategies," said Mrs. Farrell. "Students' engagement thrives when learning has a purpose. We clearly see this exemplified during the Lower School Design Challenge."
"Look I made an EA logo to put on mine!" pointed out Anna.
"It's super creative," shared Andrew. "You get to race other people and we get to cheer on other people. I'm hoping for the best!"
"It's fun!" said Hope. "We get to build with recycled materials, so we can save the earth."
"Creativity and sportsmanship is emphasized," said Mrs. Farrell. "Most students enjoy this event regardless of how their own parachute performs."
"Mine is never going to land!" remarked a hopeful 3rd grader.
It was a 4th grade sweep. Yara Goldstein was the overall winner. Classmate Alexandra McCarley won for Best Design with her creatively crafted parachute made with cupcake liners. And the 4th grade teaching team won in the faculty division.
"There was a lot of creativity on display as well as good sportsmanship," said Mrs. Farrell. "It was a fun event with a lot of students cheering on their classmates."
