High school afterschool programs play a critical role in helping students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed as adults. Engaging students while teaching them is rewarding, yet sometimes challenging. Below are two examples of activities which successfully engaged high school students and improved academic performance:
Eco Construction in Mercedes ISD
High school students expressed their creativity while applying science, math, and computer skills to building eco-friendly birdhouses and birdfeeders. Students also learned the benefits of using green construction materials. This innovative, hands-on activity helped students strengthen their math and science skills in preparation for the TAKS.
How to Create an Energy Efficient Scale Model in Harris County Dept of Ed
To help prepare high school students for college or the workforce, these students participated in an Energy City of the Future competition. Students were asked to build a scale model of an energy-efficient city from 2050. To promote their design, students also created a PowerPoint presentation and a Public Service Announcement. In preparation for this activity students researched alternative energy sources and visited energy exhibits at local museums, met with geosciences departments at the local college or university, and visited with engineering and architectural firms. This activity not only focused on Science and Technology, but also exposed students to career possibilities.
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