Project-Based Learning
In addition to the rigorous academics and the infusion of technology, the biggest hallmark of the CAAT program is the cross-curricular team planning that happens within each grade level. Our teachers work hard to create a variety of creative, engaging projects for students to demonstrate their learning. One of the benefits to a smaller magnet program is that cross-curricular projects can be planned more easily. Our small size also allows for a number of engaging field trips around the state to enhance the learning experience of each unit. This page contains a sample of some of the types of projects and field trips that students have experienced in the past through the CAAT program. We are always dreaming up new ideas!
6th Grade Examples
Mount Everest Scrapbook Project
After reading the novel Peak by Roland Smith, students created a cross-curricular scrapbook with a variety of assignments tied into the novel: creative journals about the characters, mountain climbing calculations, research essays, and more. They also visited a local rock climbing gym to experience a real climbing challenge.
The Science of Weather
After reading the novel Tangerine by Edward Bloor, students studied the weather patterns of Florida and its impact on our local environment. They took a trip to visit the Weather Center at the University of Florida for a look at professional meteorological study and newscasting equipment.
Hands-On Science
As a culminating trip for our year, students travel to Orlando Science Center and participate in hands-on labs demonstrating Earth’s many forces.
7th Grade Examples
State Government in Action
Students visited the capitol complex in Tallahassee to learn about the three branches of state government. They toured the capitol building, participated in a mock legislative session, and held a mock oral argument in the Supreme Courthouse. Students used Adobe Photoshop to create postcards about their trip.
Class T-Shirt Design Contest
Every year, students compete to design their own 8th Grade t-shirt. They use Adobe Photoshop to create the artwork, and then prepare their work for screen printing by using the Pantone color library. The class votes on the winning design, which is printed for students to wear with pride.
Jacksonville Zoo Visit
After visiting the Jacksonville zoo, students complete research in Language Arts to prepare for a debate in Life Science on the ethics of keeping animals in captivity. Students used their own artwork and photographs from the zoo to create posters in Adobe Photoshop that represents their research as an infographic.
8th Grade Examples
Business Trade Show
Students have the opportunity to put their technology skills to use as they create their own mock business. Students apply for positions in the company, create a product, design a logo, and then host a trade show where they have to give their sales pitch to potential customers in hopes of making a sale.
Kennedy Space Center Visit
Students visit the Kennedy Space Center to learn about space exploration. Students complete comic book projects for Space exploration books they read. They also complete the rocket project that collaborates with Math, Science, and Technology.
Custom Model Rocket Designs
Using open source software and Adobe Photoshop, students designed and 3D printed their own custom model rockets. They launched their creations and measured their height using an altimeter, then calculated the rocket's altitude and compared it to the computer model data.