After all the assigned tasks completed, a final Zoom meeting was held at the beginning of June, allowing students to share their opinion about this project and say goodbye!
01.04.2025 – 29.06.2025 - Fourth Virtual Activity of the Project - Leader: Didim American Kültür Kolejleri Anadolu Lisesi
Between April and June, students from the three partner schools collaborated to explore key environmental topics: World Climate Day and Animal Protection (Presentations, and other work completed by the students, can be found on the material section)
14.04.2025 Climate change presentation
Students went to some classes to share the presentation about Climate Change, at Didim American Culture Anatolian High School
24.03.2025 – 01.04.2025 "Save Energy, Secure the Future!" Energy Saving Week Activities
At Didim American Culture Anatolian High School, Energy Saving Week was celebrated with a series of creative and awareness-raising activities, aiming to promote sustainability and responsible energy use.
The week-long program focused on the theme: “Small Steps Today, Big Impact Tomorrow!”
Event Highlights:
Awareness Seminar:
Students attended an interactive seminar led by the Physics teacher, exploring the importance of energy conservation, renewable energy sources, and simple practices that can reduce energy waste at home and at school. Real-life examples and statistics were presented to highlight global energy issues.
Poster Design Contest:
Students designed posters with slogans such as “Turn It Off, Save the Planet!” and “Be Bright, Turn Off the Light!” The most creative posters were displayed in the school corridors and shared on digital platforms.
Drama Skit: "The Lazy Lamp"
The drama club performed a short play titled “The Lazy Lamp”, telling the story of a light that stayed on all the time and how it learned to rest and save energy. The humorous and thought-provoking performance received great applause from the audience.
Classroom Energy Monitors:
Each class assigned an “Energy Monitor” responsible for checking that lights, projectors, and computers were turned off during breaks and after school. This simple activity helped turn awareness into daily habit.
Energy Song & Video Project:
English and Music teachers collaborated on a catchy energy-saving song performed by students. The song included fun lyrics such as: “Switch it off, let the sunshine in, Wasting power is a silent sin!”
A short video clip of the performance was shared on school's social media.
Outcomes and Reflections: Through Energy Saving Week, our students:
Increased their awareness of energy-related global challenges,
Gained practical knowledge on energy efficiency,
Expressed themselves through art, music, and performance,
Developed environmentally friendly habits and teamwork skills.
22.03.2025 "World Water Day"
As part of World Water Day, observed on March 22nd, Didim American Culture College organized a series of awareness-raising activities to help students understand the importance of water and its sustainable use.
The activities kicked off with the campaign “One Drop, Thousands of Hopes”, where students created informative posters and brochures about water conservation. They delivered short presentations not only within the school but also to local shopkeepers and parents, highlighting the vital role of water in our lives.
In school’s conference hall, a panel was held where students gave presentations on topics such as water scarcity, climate change, and practical water-saving tips. Following the panel, a “Water Heroes” costume exhibition was hosted, where students designed creative costumes using recycled materials, emphasizing their role in protecting our planet’s water resources.
Through the“A Drop of Story” short story contest, students in primary and middle school wrote imaginative pieces about how water impacts their lives. The most creative stories were displayed on our school bulletin board and shared with the wider school community.
One of the highlights of the day was a Water-Themed Drama Performance by 5th and 6th-grade students. The play humorously yet effectively illustrated the consequences of water waste and concluded with a powerful message: “Water is Life – Protect Your Future.”
A DROP OF FUTURE!
As part of the community-based project, an experiment was held with 5th grade students! In the experiment they learned how to convert dirty water into clean water by filtering it with natural methods. The students realized how valuable every drop of water is and discovered what they can do individually to save water.
Experiment I, Experiment II, Experiment III, Experiment IV
22.03.2025 "World Forest Day"
World Forest Day is celebrated every year on March 21st, reminds us of the vital role forests play in sustaining life on Earth. Forests are not only home to more than 80% of the world’s terrestrial species, but they also help regulate the climate, purify the air, and provide us with food, water, and medicine.
Understanding the importance of protecting the forests for future generations is a major step. On this special day, Didim School organized a series of activities to raise awareness about deforestation and the value of trees in our ecosystem. The activities included:
Creating informative posters about the importance of forests,
Planting trees and flowers in our school garden,
Reading and sharing poems and stories about nature and trees,
Discussing sustainable practices and how we can reduce paper waste,
Hosting a “Green Pledge” wall where students wrote their promises to protect the environment.
22.03.2025 Didim Teacher speaks about Climate Change
17.02.2025 – 26.02.2025: “Sustainability Week"
“Sustainability Week” is an initiative that aims to raise awareness and involve the school community in issues related to environmental preservation and the promotion of sustainable practices. During this week, several activities were organized, such as lectures, workshops, exhibitions and practical actions, all with the objective of educating and encouraging students and the school community to adopt more responsible and environmentally conscious behaviors. Sustainability Week is an excellent opportunity to integrate sustainability values into school life, strengthen environmental awareness work and promote a collaborative and practical learning environment.
As part of the celebration of "Sustainability Week", promoted by Paredes City Council, on the 19th of February we welcomed Dr Francisco Leal and Eng João Costa to our school, representing the municipality, and three members of the PAC-TO Project.
To promote sustainability dynamically and emphasise its importance, an activity was organised with both the 10th and 11th grade classes who, in small groups, showed their knowledge of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The activity took the form of a game that sensitised the students to environmental issues, especially those relating to agriculture.
Once again, it proved that it is possible to learn playfully. Time was short for the enthusiasm of the students, who will certainly now have a different and more comprehensive view of the agricultural sector and the policies surrounding it.
Lecture on Composting in partnership with Ambisousa
On February 26th, Students participated in a lecture led by Dr. Bárbara Almeida, from the company Ambisousa. The topic discussed was Composting. During the session, they learned how to carry out the process correctly, the benefits of composting and the main steps that must be followed to ensure its effectiveness. They also had the opportunity to visit the school’s composter, and classes will continue to follow up on this project.
This activity was extremely enriching, as it highlighted the importance of adopting an active stance in preserving resources, both at school and in our homes.
06.02.2024 - Partners' Meeting
An online meeting was held among the project partners, organised by the Project Coordinator in Portugal, Teacher Célia Barbosa. Teacher Hayriye Aydın, the Coordinator from Kesan, and Teacher Seher Tetik from Didim attended the meeting. Unfortunately, Teacher Mehmet Demirtaş, the Coordinator from Didim, was unable to attend due to illness.
During this session, the partners discussed key aspects of the project, making important decisions regarding the next steps and online activities. Responsibilities were distributed among the partners to ensure an efficient and well-structured implementation. Additionally, plans were outlined to maximise the project's impact and strengthen long-term collaboration.
Main Tasks for the Partnership
1. Production of Materials for Virtual Activities
Each partner is responsible for producing materials related to the following topics, which will later be made available on the project website.
Topics for students' work:
Third Virtual Activity that started in January): Forest Week and World Soil Day.
Fourth Virtual Activity: World Climate Day and Animal Protection.
2. Updating eTwinning
The Turkish partners, namely Teacher Hayriye and Seher, are responsible for updating the eTwinning platform.
Better Environmental Next Generation – TwinSpace
3. Updating the Website
Once the materials have been received from the partners, the Project Coordinator will be responsible for updating the official website.
4. Final Zoom Meeting with Students
A final Zoom meeting will be held exclusively for students at the end of May or the beginning of June, allowing them to say goodby. Since students will continue working on their assigned tasks, multiple meetings will not be necessary, ensuring a more practical and efficient approach.
29.01.2024: “Ecological Walk”
Students of 7th grade took part in an ecological walk with a fundamental purpose: to help clean up the area outside the school and its surroundings. This initiative promoted the students' environmental awareness and sense of responsibility and reinforced the importance of preserving common spaces. Through this gesture, the students could see in practice the impact of pollution and the need to adopt more sustainable behaviour, becoming active agents in protecting the environment.
28.01.2024: Celebrating being an Eco School!
Cristelo was awarded, once more, with the green flag, as an Eco School!
To celebrate students planted olive trees in defence of the environment and peace
The Agrupamento de Escolas took a significant step in favour of sustainability and ecological
awareness by holding a symbolic ceremony attended by the Councillor for the Environment, Dr Francisco Leal and Engineer João Costa, teachers, students and members of the school community. Recognising the importance of environmental protection, the school highlighted its long-standing dedication to promoting initiatives that not only have a positive impact on the the environment, but also strengthen students' ecological awareness.
Why the olive tree?
Considered one of the most remarkable trees in the world, the olive tree holds deep symbolic meaning. It represents fidelity and determination, embodying resilience as it thrives in harsh conditions—whether extreme heat, cold, rocky, or sandy soil. Even when cut down or burned, it regenerates with new branches, a testament to its enduring strength. This symbolism has been interpreted as a call to care for our common home, the planet, and as a message of peace. Inspired by the hope these ancient trees represent, the school community reaffirmed its connection to the Earth through this meaningful gesture.
01.01.2025 – 31.03.2025 - Third Virtual Activity of the Project - Leader: Agrupamento de Escolas de Cristelo
Between January and March, students from the three partner schools collaborated to explore key environmental topics: Forest Week and World Soil Day (Presentations, and other work completed by the students, can be found on the material section)
05.12.2024: World Soil Day Event:Protect the Soil, Save the Future!
In line with the vision of raising environmentally conscious individuals, Partner Schools organized events on the occasion of World Soil Day, December 5. This year's topic was aligned with FAO’s global message: “Soil and Water: A Source of Life.”
Events Highlights at Didim School
Awareness Presentation:
Guided by the Science teacher, students attended an informative presentation on soil erosion, harmful agricultural practices, and the impact of climate change on soil. Through visuals and short videos, they gained a deeper understanding of soil’s vital role in the life cycle.
Mini Workshop: “Meet the Soil”
Designed for 1st and 2nd-grade students, this workshop allowed children to explore different types of soil by touch. Hands-on observation activities were conducted with clay, sandy, and humus-rich soil samples.
Seed Planting Activity:
In a specially prepared area of the school garden, students planted vegetable seeds (lettuce, parsley, basil) that they brought from home. This activity reinforced the idea that soil is not just mattter, it’s a living resource.
Letter to the Soil – English Creative Writing Activity:
Middle school students wrote short letters titled “Dear Soil...” during their English lessons, thanking the soil and making promises to protect it. The most creative letters were displayed on the school board.
Recycling Workshop:
Using discarded plastic bottles, cardboard boxes, and egg cartons, students constucted miniature "pot gardens." This workshop conveyed the idea that soil can also be protected through recycling.
Outcomes and Achievements: (photos)
Through these activities, students:
Learned about the irreplaceable role of soil in the ecosystem,
Took responsibility and developed environmental awareness,
Had the opportunity to use English in a creative and meaningful way,
Enjoyed learning through interaction with nature.
Cristelo School had an unforgetable Science Day, an event that opened its doors to the community and saw the enthusiastic participation of many parents and carers. This celebration of knowledge, curiosity and innovation brought together a diverse range of scientific, cultural and educational activities, providing unique moments of learning and discovery for all ages.
GeoExplorers: A journey through the world of geography and Earth exploration.
Astronomy sessions at Starlab: The portable planetarium enchanted kids and adults with fascinating sessions about the universe.
Solar and nocturnal astronomicalobservations: Cristelo's sky was the scene of surprising discoveries.
Psicolab - The Science of Behaviour: An interactive approach to psychology and human behaviour.
Reasoning at Play: Logical and mathematical challenges to stimulate critical thinking.
Luminoteca and Colour: Experiments with light and colour that awaken creativity.
Fruit DNA: DNA extraction in practical and educational experiments.
Hunting Micrometeorites / Life in the Pond: Activities that brought natural science within everyone's reach.
SOS - First Aid: With the collaboration of USF Rebordosa, essential first aid techniques were presented.
Computational thinking, virtual and augmented reality: A vision of the digital future.
Genius Minds: Extraordinary Discoveries, highlighting the great milestones in science.
Photo Exhibition: 30 Years, 30 Photographs, 30 Scientists, celebrating the history of science through images.
Student work, which showcased the creativity and talent of the school community.
CardioBike circuit, promoting cardiovascular health in a fun way.
LIFE Serras do Porto project, raising awareness of the importance of environmental conservation.
Celebration of Autochthonous Forest Day, with the special presence of the project's mascot.
Science Day was much more than a school event; it was an opportunity to bring community and knowledge together in an atmosphere of sharing, curiosity and celebration of science. The success of this day is a reflection of the commitment of Cristelo School and its teachers to providing innovative and enriching educational experiences for their students and the community. Congratulations to everyone involved for an unforgettable day!
18.11.2024 to 22.11.2024 second in-person meeting in Didim
This activity is described on the dedicated tab
Padlet of the LTT in Didim, that occured between the 18th and 22nd November
25.10.2024 to 29.10.2024 - High School Students Explore Climate Change Through Art
Students of Didim had the privilege of attending an inspiring exhibition showcasing artwork from the climate change-themed art competition held at school. The exhibition featured a diverse range of creative pieces, each capturing unique perspectives on the urgent global issue of climate change.
As students explored the displayed artworks, they took the time to reflect deeply on the messages conveyed through various artistic expressions. Engaging in thoughtful discussions, they shared their insights, debated the impacts of climate change, and considered how art can serve as a powerful tool for raising awareness and inspiring action.
The event provided an opportunity not only to appreciate the talents of their peers but also to think critically about the challenges posed by climate change. By connecting visual art with real-world issues, the exhibition encouraged students to recognize the importance of environmental stewardship and the role they can play in addressing these challenges.
This initiative underscores school’s commitment to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and global citizenship among students. It was a a meaningful experience that left a lasting impression on everyone involved, reinforcing the importance of collaborative efforts to combat climate change.
14.10.2024 to 18.10.2024 second in-person meeting in Cristelo
This activity is described on the dedicated tab
Padlet of the LTT in Cristelo, that occured between the 14th and 18th October
#ErasmusDays we also comemorated this week by having our 2nd mobility and developing multiple activities (14.10.2024 to 18.10.2024)
04.10.2024 - Animal welfare and enviromental conciousness
The activity was planned and carried out by Didim high school students, showcasing their commitment to animal welfare and environmental consciousness. As part of their journey, the students first delivered insightful presentations on endangered species and animal rights, shedding light on the challenges faced by animals worldwide. Following this, they engaged in a dynamic brainstorming session, which led to the creation of a unique event dedicated to World Animal Protection Day.
The project aimed to inspire action and compassion among students of all ages. To involve the younger students, dry cat and dog food was distributed to primary school students, encouraging them to care for and feed animals in their local neighborhoods. This hands-on experience not only taught the importance of kindness towards animals but also strengthened their sense of responsibility as active contributors to their communities.
This initiative, meticulously planned and executed by the high school students, represents more than a one-time event; it’s a step towards cultivating a culture of empathy and respect for all living beings. Their dedication and creativity have set an inspiring example, showing how small efforts can lead to meaningful changes in both our local environment and beyond. Together, they celebrate their achievements and look forward to seeing this awareness spread further.
01.10.2024 - Partners' Meeting
The meeting was arranged by the Project Coordinator from Portugal, Ms Célia Barbosa, and was attended by the two Turkish Coordinator Ms Hayriye AYDIN , and Mr Mehmet DEMİRTAŞ
23.09.2024 – 28.09.2024 - Exploring Climate Change Through Interactive Learning
Students recently introduced an innovative way to learn about climate change by discovering and playing an educational board game centered on this pressing global issue. The activity, offered a dynamic and engaging approach to reinforce awareness of climate change among students from all grade levels.
The board game provided a fun yet thought-provoking platform for students to explore the causes, effects, and potential solutions to climate change. Through interactive gameplay, participants encountered real-world scenarios, made strategic decisions, and learned about the interconnectedness of human activities and environmental outcomes.
Following the gameplay, students came together for a meaningful discussion, reflecting on their experiences and the lessons they had learned. They exchanged ideas about the importance of addressing climate change, shared actionable measures individuals and communities can take, and emphasized the collective responsibility we all share in protecting our planet.
This activity not only deepened students’ understanding of climate change but also encouraged collaboration, critical thinking, and a proactive mindset. It served as a reminder that learning can be both enjoyable and impactful, empowering students to become informed advocates for environmental sustainability.
21.09.2024 "World Cleanup Day"
World Cleanup Day, is celebrated every year on the third Saturday of September, and it is one of the largest global environmental movements aiming to raise awareness and create a cleaner, healthier planet for everyone.
Students of all three schools, took responsibility on this special day and organized a meaningful events to protect the environment. As part of this activity they:
Carried out a cleanup around the school and its surroundings,
Gave group presentations on recycling and waste separation,
Designed posters with the theme “Hand in Hand for a Cleaner Future” and displayed them at schools
Discussed the impacts of environmental pollution and brainstormed possible solutions.
Through these actions, they aimed to add value to the community and promote awareness on sustainable living and environmental responsibility. Small steps can lead to big changes, and each person’s contribution makes a difference for a cleaner world.
01.09.2024 – 31.12.2024 - Second Virtual Activity of the Project - Leader: Agrupamento de Escolas de Cristelo
Between September and December, students from the three partner schools collaborated in transnational teams to explore key environmental topics: World Environment Day; Energy Saving Week and Recycling Workshops (Presentations, and other work completed by the students, can be found on the material section)
17.05.2024 – 07.06.2024 - World Environment "Week": Exhibition at the library about bees, and their importance for the environment.
During the exhibition, students will explore the world of bees through various activities. They can observe bees under a binocular magnifying glass, color and label their parts, and read informative texts about bees and honey. They will learn about pollination. Learn the differences between bees and wasps, and observe an Asian hornet's nest, a known threat to bees.
17.05.2024 – 07.06.2024 - World Environment "Week" celebrations
Schools started celebrating the World Environment "Week" with multiple activities.
World Environment Day is celebrated annually on 5th June across the globe to mark the importance of nature and the environment. The purpose of this day is to spread awareness about the threat to the environment due to rising pollution levels and climate change. The topic this year is LAND RESTORATION, DESERTIFICATION & DROUGHT RESILIENCE
Useful links:
https://green-week.event.europa.eu/index_en
https://www.worldenvironmentday.global/
https://www.worldenvironmentday.global/get-involved/register
01.02.2024 – 31.05.2024 - First Virtual Activity of the Project - Leader: Keşan Anadolu Lisesi
Between February and May, students from the three partner schools collaborated in transnational teams to explore key environmental topics: Safe Forest Day, Water Day, and World Cleanup Day. While the later was actively celebrated through student and teacher-led clean-up initiatives around the schools, the other topics were presented by project participants to their classmates. (Presentations, and other work completed by the students, can be found on the material section)
17.05.2024 – 07.06.2024 - World Environment "Week"
Climate Science: The Fundamentals, presentation.
08.04.2024 – 12.04.2024 - First in-person meeting.
This activity is described on the dedicated tab
22.03.2024 - Online Conference
Online Conference with students presenting their work on forest protection.
18.03.2024 to 22.03.2024 - Raising Awareness Through Climate Change Presentations
As part of School's ongoing efforts to promote environmental awareness, students prepared and delivered presentations on climate change to their peers. The presentations covered a wide range of topics, including the causes and effects of climate change, innovative solutions being implemented globally, and simple yet impactful actions individuals can take in their daily lives to reduce their carbon footprint.
The students skillfully combined research, data, and creative visuals to engage their audience and highlight the urgency of addressing climate change. By presenting to their classmates, they not only emphasized the significance of the issue but also fostered a sense of responsibility and collective action among their peers.
Following the presentations, interactive discussions were held, providing a platform for students to share their thoughts, ask questions, and exchange ideas. This open dialogue encouraged critical thinking and helped students gain a deeper understanding of the challenges posed by climate change, as well as the innovative strategies being developed to combat it.
The activity proved to be a valuable learning experience, inspiring students to think globally while acting locally. It also reinforced the importance of peer-to-peer education in creating a more informed and environmentally conscious school community.
Climate science is a broad field that covers topics such as the effects of gases in the atmosphere, climate models on Earth, the causes and consequences of climate change. Understanding these fundamentals helps us make informed decisions in the fight against climate change.
21.03.2024 - Partners' Meeting
The meeting was arranged by the Project Coordinator from Portugal, Ms Célia Barbosa, and was attended by the two Turkish Coordinator Ms Hayriye AYDIN , and Mr Mehmet DEMİRTAŞ
02.03.2024 – Logo selection
The logo competition ended with a votation and a winner!
Congratulations to all students, they have created great logos.
The winning logo is now officially displayed on the project page
30.12.2023 – Project Starting Official date
After the contract is signed with the Portuguese National Agency, the project officially starts!
06.11.2023 – Launching of the Logo Competition at the schools.
Organising a competition for the students to develop the project logo (deadline: 20.01.2023)
23.10.2023 – 03.11.2023 - Students selection
After the campaign about the project, the schools established rules to select students. The selected ones compromised to participate actively in all the activities assigned.
16.10.2023 - Celebrating World Food Day at Cristelo School
This year we celebrated World Food Day under the motto "Hidden sugar in food". As this was one of the priority areas of intervention for the classes.
Several activities were organised in the classroom with the aim of making students aware of the importance of a diet rich in natural and unprocessed foods and the consumption of fruit and vegetables.
Eating clean and fresh vegetables and fruits from the season, is also very important under the “sustainability” topic.
At Sobrosa and Duas Igrejas primary schools, as usual, a Food Fair was organised with the participation of the entire school community. Both were a success!
The pre-school classes explored the importance of healthy eating, gummies were made (using only fruit and agar-agar).
They worked on the topic "Hidden sugar in food" with different activities, including a visit to the exhibition in the library, where various foods and the sugar they contain were on display. They enjoyed tasting fruit as well. In Duas Igrejas, the students brighten the morning with a song and choreography (food wheel) rehearsed by School teachers.
At Secondary School, a healthy snack was shared with fruit, vegetables, fiber-rich carbohydrates, and dairy products. The 9th graders developed projects and created several educational games that were applied to their peers in other classes.
And because "we are what we eat", we might as well bet on prevention!
https://agcristelo.edu.pt/7672-2/
13.10.2023 - National Meeting of “Ciência Viva” (life science) Clubs in Lisbon
The “Pavilhão do Conhecimento” (pavilion of knowledge) in Lisbon hosted the National Meeting of “Ciência Viva” School Clubs
This initiative brought together hundreds of teachers from all over the country where a Science and Technology Exhibition was on display, with the presence of the different partners, namely “Ciência Viva” Centres, scientific and higher education institutions, local authorities, museums and other cultural institutions.
During the meeting, a series of debates and round tables were held on topics ranging from climate change to artificial intelligence and food.
Present at the meeting were teachers and researchers from different areas of knowledge to reflect on the collaborative work carried out by the National Network of “Ciência Viva” School Clubs.
https://agcristelo.edu.pt/encontro-nacional-de-clubes-ciencia-viva-em-lisboa/
12.10.2023 - Visit to the Paredes Official Animal Rescue Centre (CROA)
The students visited the kennels, passing by the various boxes containing dogs for future adoption, all of which had been found on the street. As well as these dogs, they saw three kittens that are also up for adoption, even though there is no cattery. CROA has rescued animals of various species (foxes, horses, and owls) which are then sent to the police.
They then interacted with CROA's mascot, Quim, a brown-haired senior dog. Finally, the psychologist who works at CROA and who guided them on the visit explained how the kennels work, the importance of vaccination, sterilisation and microchipping, as well as the conditions required to become an adopter. The students also learnt that they can do volunteer work at CROA.
https://agcristelo.edu.pt/visita-ao-centro-de-recolha-oficial-de-animais-de-paredes/
20.09.2023 – 20.10.2023 - Introduction of the Project to the local community at the schools.
Information campaign about the project - among teachers, students and parents.
Informational meetings were carried out - giving detailed information to the teachers, the students, and parents in all the partner schools about the project and the partner institutions.
07.09.2023 – Creating the project eTwinning page.
07.09.2023 – Videoconference of project coordinators.
First official videoconference on Zoom between the coordinators after the project starting date.
Ever since the results of the 2023 call have been published the Partners were in contact - exchanging information, but this was the first official meeting after the 1st September 2023 when the project officially began.
Since the German partner quit the project, the project timetable, had to be reviewed. The priorities and tasks for the next month were set out.
First of all, the schools have to publish about this project and open a contest to choose the students.
After the students selected, It was decided that the first important task would be the creation of the project logo - implemented through separate competitions held in each partner Institution, and then opening an international contest.
The conference was arranged by the Project Coordinator from Portugal, Ms Célia Barbosa, and was attended by the two Turkish Coordinator Ms Hayriye AYDIN , and Mr Mehmet DEMİRTAŞ
This videoconference was also published on Cristelo' school website: https://agcristelo.edu.pt/reuniao-inicial-de-parceiros/
01.09.2023 – The cooperation begins.