Students begin their studies of ancient civilizations as they throw a pot on a wheel, imitating the advanced techniques of the ancient Sumerians. They are sent on an imaginary voyage through time by participating in a simulation, helping Jean-François Champollion decipher the hieroglyphics of the Rosetta Stone.
G·tec’s classroom turns into a mock courtroom as students begin a journey through the world of law. Contemporary New York State laws become the subject of debate and scrutiny, as do other influences on modern culture. Students participate in plays as they hear cases about other kids and must determine their sentences and fates. The world of social work and other options besides “jail” become available for discussion.
Their study of biology expands into anatomy as part of their academic enrichment. Students build model lungs, test for gas exchange, and analyze food absorption in their investigation of the respiratory and digestive systems. In this year, students dissect a frog by hand as well as on the computer to learn the digestive system more thoroughly.
Students study twentieth-century artists. They create their own versions of famous artists’ techniques such as Pablo Picasso’s cubism, Georgia O’Keeffe’s watercolor landscapes, Roy Lichtenstein’s pop art, and Marc Chagall’s stained glass windows.
Students compose original theatrical productions using their own handmade Muppets to dramatize current issues. They learn to layout, design, and write scripts on the computer. Students create background sets and invite parents for the end-of-the-year extravaganza.