Lakeside Grade 4 students recently visited the mangroves of Sungei Buloh to examine their central idea, living and nonliving things in an ecosystem are interconnected and impact each other.

Together with Open Minds Coordinator, Carl Brown, they set about examining environmental conditions in the mangroves. During the week, students learnt about the mangrove’s key inhabitants and the unique features of its trees.

Students were able to establish how water type, soil ph, and light conditions (among others) have impacted and shaped the mangroves’ ecosystem. They also examined and documented the different factors that can influence the abiotic features of the mangrove and its surrounds.

By using questions such as ‘what is it like’, ‘how does it work’, ‘why is it like this’ and ‘how is it connected to other things?’, students were able to determine:

• That not all types of water are the same and is identified by its salinity level
• That soil is made up of many different components
• That there are different amounts of oxygen dissolved in different types of water
• How water becomes dissolved within water
• How the living and nonliving features of the mangroves are interconnected and dependent on each other

During this week, our students further developed their:

Research and analytical skills: students developed their research skills through a carefully planned programme. Using the majority of their senses, they gathered data first-hand, and took readings which were later organised and analysed. They learnt how to interpret the data they’d collected which allowed them to develop their understanding of, and draw conclusions related to the central idea.

Social and emotional skills: as students work in groups, they collaborate, they ask questions, they listen to others’ ideas, and work together to complete the task at hand. They develop resilience as they face setbacks or look at a new approach to a problem.

Open Minds provides students with unique opportunities to develop skills that are relevant and transferrable. Learning is hands on, stimulating, engaging and meaningful. Can you think of a better way to learn?