Grade 5 students delved into the intricate world of sustainable technology as part of their exploration for the Unit of Inquiry, “Sharing the Planet.” Understanding the profound impact of technological decisions on nature, economy, society, and well-being was the focal point of their journey. Venturing to the farm, students immersed themselves in the practical application of sustainable technology. They scrutinised various tools such as water heaters, solar panels, hydroponic greenhouses, bike blenders, and bike sprinklers, weighing the positives and negatives of each. Through hands-on experiences like ploughing fields and planting rice, they intimately connected with the agricultural process, culminating in the satisfaction of consuming Khao Gee (grilled sticky rice with egg). Upon returning to the classroom, students broadened their perspective by comparing their findings to high-tech farms in America. They organised their thoughts using the sustainability compass model, analysing the environmental, economic, and social dimensions of each technology. Furthermore, students linked their research to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, fostering a deeper understanding of how sustainable technology contributes to global progress. Through this immersive and interdisciplinary approach, Grade 5 students not only gained knowledge but also cultivated a sense of responsibility towards shaping a more sustainable future.
Alison Thompson
Grade 5 Teacher & Junior School Mathematics Coordinator
