Learning came to life at Highland Middle School recently as students in Cornelia Harris’s Environmental Science elective transformed their fall schoolyard observations into engaging, student-created projects.

Throughout the semester, students explored the plants and animals that share their campus, using real-world scientific tools and techniques to study their local ecosystem. Their investigations included various forms of “tracking,” such as analyzing evidence left behind by wildlife and using a track camera to identify animals active in the area.

Rather than presenting their findings through traditional slideshows, students were challenged to communicate what they learned in creative ways. The result was a collection of interactive games and original comic books designed to teach others about the biodiversity found right outside their school doors.

On January 16, the Environmental Science students brought their projects to Highland Elementary School, where they shared them with Grade 4 and 5 students. The hands-on activities sparked curiosity and excitement among the younger learners, making science both accessible and memorable.

This project is a strong example of experiential learning in action, blending science, creativity, and collaboration while building meaningful connections between Highland’s middle and elementary schools.