Storytelling Meets Science In Grade 6

Students in Grade 6 showcased their understanding of complex Earth systems during a science symposium this week, marking the completion of their Biogeochemical Cycles of Matter Comic Strip Project. Unlike a traditional science fair, the symposium offered an opportunity to share work creatively, with a focus on storytelling rather than a step-by-step recitation of facts. As they discussed their work with friends and family, students demonstrated how the water cycle, nitrogen cycle, oxygen cycle, and carbon cycle move matter through the natural world.

“I liked how this project was very hands-on,” said Ruby Tello ’32, who enjoyed turning complex science ideas into drawings. “Creating a comic strip helped me better understand the carbon cycle in a fun way.”

Leading up to the final project, science teacher Lindsay Chiodi discussed each of the cycles using models, diagrams, educational videos, and virtual reality. Homework readings, accompanied by paired worksheets, helped reinforce lessons. 

To prove their understanding of the subject, students were randomly assigned a cycle and asked to draft a creative way to explain their topic. Choidi provided feedback to each of the drafts, which were then edited by the students before final approval.

“I was really impressed with the thoughtfulness in creation and the students who pushed themselves to try stop motion, book creator, Canva, or drawing a comic strip by hand,” said Chiodi. “Seeing variety in project format has been really cool!”

Students worked on their projects for a week and a half, with each period beginning with warm-up questions designed to reinforce understanding of all biogeochemical cycles, not just their own.

Following winter break, students will continue their study of cycles as they explore continental drift, plate tectonics, and heat transfer, building a bridge from environmental science toward an introduction to chemistry.