Explore Year 6. Session 6. Week 3.

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QUEST

As part of their Biology Quest, Explorers worked in the lab of scientific hero Louis Pasteur. They conducted the iconic swan-necked flask experiment, just as Pasteur did, to challenge the idea of spontaneous generation. Through careful observation and setup, they began to see how bacteria in the air can spoil liquids over time.

They also launched a longer-term experiment with bread and bacteria, designing a controlled test to explore how germs spread. Each learner made predictions about which slice of bread would mold first: the untouched control, the hand-touched slice, the coughed-on slice, or the one rubbed on the floor. Explorers are keeping careful notes as the slices begin to reveal the results.

To bring germ theory to life, learners acted out the dramatic battle between white blood cells and pathogens by creating their own models and re-enacting phagocytosis—the process where white blood cells “eat” invaders. Later in the week, they turned their attention to Pasteur’s famous rival, Robert Koch, to understand how scientists identify specific bacteria and trace them back to their source.

PD

Even a stormy Tuesday couldn’t slow them down. During Physical Development, they kept their energy high with a group workout and an enthusiastic round of duck-duck-goose.

TEAM BUILDING

A council of elected Explorers met with representatives from the Discovery Studio to discuss shared challenges and brainstorm how their studios can support each other. On Friday, the whole studio tackled an obstacle course together. In their reflections afterward, many shared that the toughest parts of the course were also the most rewarding.

FRIDAY OUTING

To top it all off, the studio ended their week with an outing to Shoal Creek, where learners scrambled up their favorite climbing tree, tested their strength, and shared laughter among the branches.

From lab coats to muddy sneakers, this week was packed with curiosity, courage, and connection.

For more from Session 6 Week 3, click here: Explore Session 6, Week 3 photos & videos

Explore Year 6. Session 6. Week 2.

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In week 2 of Session 6, Explorers tested hypotheses and made observations in Biology Quest, researched in Writers’ Workshop, and brainstormed in Art.

QUEST

This week, the Explore Studio was alive with curiosity and transformation—literally! As part of Biology Quest, Explorers researched and illustrated the life cycles of animals and insects that undergo metamorphosis, and welcomed new living organisms into the studio: caterpillars! The Explore biologists began recording daily changes in their Caterpillar to Butterfly Observation Charts, excited to witness the magic of metamorphosis unfold right before their eyes.

Their investigation into life didn’t stop there. Learners planted seeds and launched their first plant growth experiment, placing seeds in three different light conditions—direct sunlight, indirect sunlight, and no light—to explore how environment affects plant development. They’ll continue tracking their results in Seed Experiment Observation Charts over the next four weeks.

In another hands-on lab, Explorers dissected real flowers to study how plants reproduce and even examined parts of the flowers under microscopes. By the end of the week, they launched a new experiment—this time involving yeast! They proved yeast is alive by conducting an experiment with yeast and sugar to create carbon dioxide and watched yeast reproduce under the microscope. They’re growing their very own sourdough starter, learning about the role of microorganisms in fermentation.

WRITERS’ WORKSHOP

Meanwhile, in Writers’ Workshop, the studio shifted from scientists to storytellers. Learners began researching heroes in biology as inspiration for the biographies they’ll be writing.

ART

In Art, the Explorers joined forces with the Discovery Studio to take on a new creative challenge: writing and performing their very own radio plays! They split up into groups and began brainstorming, scriptwriting, and recording sound effects for their plays.

FRIDAY OUTING

Explorers capped off the week with an outing to Bull Creek. They encouraged one another to step out of their comfort zone and celebrated each others’ bravery as they climbed boulders, slid down waterfalls and encountered new creatures!

For more from Session 6 Week 2, click here: Explore Session 6, Week 2 photos & videos

Explore Year 6. Session 6. Week 1.

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 This week, the Explore Studio transformed into a buzzing biology lab as learners launched into Biology Quest! With curiosity as their guide, they stepped into the shoes of real scientists—asking questions, making observations, and testing their hypotheses. Whether it was constructing colorful cell models or observing plant cells under the microscope, every moment sparked a deeper understanding of how life works on the microscopic level. The highlight? Observing their own cheek cells under the microscope—an unforgettable look at the building blocks of life, right from their own bodies!

In the spirit of caring for life on a larger scale, the learners also took time to honor Earth Day. Explore learners teamed up with their Fellow Travelers in the Spark Studio to get their hands dirty—literally! Together, they planted herbs and flowers in the Spark courtyard, adding beauty and life to their shared environment.

From cells to soil, the week was full of wonder, discovery, and connection.

For more from Session 6 Week 1, click here: Explore Session 6, Week 1 photos & videos

Explore Year 6. Session 5. Week 6.

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From inspired creativity and teamwork, to a collective exhibition of learning, week 6 in Explore was one for the books! 

ART

The Explore learners created nature collages, using leaves, twigs, and flowers to build layered works of art. Then, they dove into leaf stamping, experimenting with shape and texture to design unexpected scenes.

PD

The whole community came together for an epic kickball game in PD this week. Laughter, cheers, and the occasional dramatic slide into base filled the field.

QUEST

At the Exhibition of Learning, Explore and Discovery learners had the opportunity to share the survival skills they practiced during Survivor Quest this session. Learners showcased their wilderness know-how with four hands-on challenges: setting up their tents, tying up a bear bag using a clove hitch knot, teaching their guests how to apply a pressure bandage in a first aid scenario, and starting a fire using flint and steel or a magnifying glass. Each learner became the expert, guiding family and friends through each task. And once every challenge was complete? It was time to celebrate—roasting marshmallows around the fire and soaking in the satisfaction of a job well done.

For more from Session 5 Week 6, click here: Explore Session 5, Week 6 photos & videos

Explore Year 6. Session 5. Week 5.

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Week 5 was filled with inspiration and collaboration as the Explore learners learned from Heroes in Survival, honed their writing skills, and dove into their work or a new book at the library.

QUEST
The Explore and Discovery learners welcomed two Heroes in Survival to share their Hero’s Journeys. One was a firefighter, and the other an environmentalist who spent seven months navigating the Rio Grande. Their stories were filled with courage, resilience, and deep respect for the natural world. Our learners leaned in, captivated, and asked insightful questions about the challenges these heroes faced and the lessons they learned along the way. Inspired by these journeys, they reflected on their own paths and what it means to overcome obstacles with determination.

Meanwhile, the Explore learners turned their focus to an upcoming adventure of their own: their Exhibition Camping Trip. They collaborated to plan meals and draft their Camp Rules, ensuring safety and teamwork will be at the heart of their experience.

 

WRITERS’ WORKSHOP
Creativity and science intertwined this session as Explorers worked on crafting science-based fiction. These young writers have been blending facts with imagination, creating compelling stories that push the boundaries of possibility. Last week, they took a critical step in the writing process—peer editing. Giving and receiving constructive feedback helped them refine their narratives, preparing them for their final drafts.

 

FRIDAY OUTING
To wrap up the week, the learners in Explore visited the Central Austin Public Library. Some were diving into novels, others finding flow in their work, and others simply enjoying the quiet magic of the library.

  

For more from Session 5 Week 5, click here: Explore Session 5, Week 5 photos & videos

Explore Year 6. Session 5. Week 4.

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This week in the studio, the Explorers dove into hands-on challenges in life-saving first aid skills, to basketball tournaments, to team-building challenges, and pushed their problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience to new levels.

QUEST

In Survivor Quest, the Explorers stepped into the role of first responders, practicing essential first aid skills. They practiced wrapping pressure bandages, securing slings, and stabilizing splints and reflected on their ability to stay calm in an emergency situation. Later, the Explorers faced an orienteering challenge that transported them to the vast wilderness of Yosemite National Park—or at least, that’s what they imagined! Lost in the wild, they used their compasses and hard-earned survival skills to navigate back to camp. Each turn and decision tested their ability to stay calm under pressure and work as a team.

TEAM-BUILDING

The Explorers faced a challenge they had attempted before—using their “robot writing tool” to spell out a word together. This week, the word was KINDNESS.  Many shared that they felt hesitant, remembering how difficult it was to control the tool together. But this time was different. Instead of frustration, they approached the challenge with strategy and open ears. And on their second attempt, they succeeded. The Explorers were very proud of their accomplishment and celebrated together!

PD

The energy shifted from survival and teamwork to fast-paced competition as the first game of the basketball tournament tipped off. Learners from both the Explore and Discovery studios brought their best to the court, setting the stage for an exciting few weeks ahead. The competition is just beginning, and the excitement is building!

For more from Session 5 Week 4, click here: Explore Session 5, Week 4 photos & videos

Explore Year 6. Session 5. Week 3.

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This week in the Explore Studio, learners put their skills—and their mindsets—to the test. Whether constructing shelters, creating art from nature, or celebrating the mathematical wonder of Pi, they faced challenges with resilience and creativity.

QUEST

Monday kicked off Survivor Quest with an engineering challenge: build a shelter using only sticks, burlap, and twine. Explorers worked in teams, strategizing how to create the sturdiest structure with limited materials. On Wednesday, they took on an another shelter building challenge—setting up and taking down tents. With some tents missing instructions, problem-solving and patience were key. Maintaining a heroic mindset, Explorers tackled frustration head-on, proving that persistence is an important skill for survival.

On Friday, Explorers turned inward to map out their identities, reflecting on what makes them unique, because survival isn’t just about physical needs—it’s also about knowing who you are.

ART

Nature continued to be the medium for this week’s exploration into Land Art. Using leaves, petals, and stones, Explorers designed intricate mandalas—temporary works of beauty that highlighted patterns in the natural world. They also built cairns, stacking rocks in delicate balance to create sculptures that required patience and precision.

PD

Explorers joined Discovery learners on the basketball court, sharpening both their offensive and defensive skills. The energy was high as they pushed themselves to improve while also lifting each other up.

Pi Day

On Friday the learners in Explorer teamed up with Spark learners to prepare apple pie treats in honor of Pi Day. They chopped apples, crushed graham crackers, and caramelized the apples, while Discovery learners took on the final steps to make the treats ready to share. Meanwhile, another challenge was underway—how many digits of Pi could Explorers memorize? They worked together to test their memory!

From building shelters to building identity, stacking stones to stacking numbers, this week was a testament to creativity, problem-solving, and grit.

For more from Session 5 Week 3, click here: Explore Session 5, Week 3 photos & videos

Explore Year 6. Session 5. Week 2.

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This week in the studio was packed with exploration, deep thinking, and hands-on learning. From honing survival skills in Quest, to finding flow in Art, and diving into meaningful discussions, every learner had an opportunity to grow in new ways.

QUEST

This week’s Survivor Quest focused on one of the most essential survival skills—water! Learners in Explore researched the many different parts of the water cycle, then built a model to illustrate their findings. To put their knowledge into practice, they constructed solar stills to collect water through condensation and used sand, gravel, and coffee filters to purify murky water collected from Shoal Creek last week. Once they completed their Quest challenges, they switched gears to another essential survival skill—fire-making! They practiced using flint and steel, magnifying glasses, and even friction with sticks to create fire.

     

ART

This week in art, Explorers took their creativity outdoors with a yarn bombing project! They gathered sticks from around campus and wrapped them in bright-colored yarn, transforming them into vibrant sculptures and mobiles.

PD

In PD, Explorers worked on improving their control of the basketball while dribbling. They pushed themselves to their limits, running extra laps and creating their own dribbling challenges, all while cheering each other on.

For more from Session 5 Week 2, click here: Explore Session 5, Week 2 photos & videos

Explore Year 6. Session 5. Week 1.

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Survival, Sculpture, and Sportsmanship: This Week in Explore

This week in Explore was all about resourcefulness, creativity, and teamwork. From mastering survival skills to building nature-inspired sculptures and honing basketball techniques, the Explorers took on challenges that stretched their minds and bodies.

Survivor Quest: Fire, Food, and Traps

Survival is all about using the world around you, and this week, the Explorers dove into essential wilderness skills. They began by researching edible plants and insects, discovering which natural resources could provide nourishment in a pinch. But finding food is only part of survival—catching it is another challenge entirely. Using water bottles, string, paper clips, and cheese, they engineered humane mouse traps, testing their creativity and problem-solving skills.

Knots are another key survival skill, and the Explorers practiced tying four different types, learning when and why each would be useful. The most exciting challenge of the week? Fire-making. After researching how magnifying glasses, flint and metal, and friction from rubbing sticks together can create fire, they put their knowledge to the test. Learners chose a technique and began attempting to start their own fire—an exercise in patience, technique, and persistence.

Art: Sculpting with Nature

In Art, the Explorers turned to the great outdoors for inspiration. On Tuesday, they created sculptures in the style of Andy Goldsworthy, arranging leaves, rocks, and other natural materials into delicate, ephemeral works of art. Then on Thursday, they took on a bigger challenge—working together as an entire studio to construct a large-scale stick sculpture, inspired by Patrick Dougherty. The project required not just creativity, but also communication and teamwork as they figured out how to balance and connect their materials into a unified piece.

 

PD: Basketball Skills and Sportsmanship

On the court, the Explorers brought focus and energy to their physical development. Tuesday was dedicated to skill-building, working on passing, shooting, and teamwork through drills. Thursday was where the lessons truly came to life—scrimmage day. Here, learners not only tested their growing abilities but also practiced good sportsmanship, showing respect and encouragement whether they won or lost.

Friday Outing: Collecting Water for Next Week’s Challenge

To wrap up the week, the Explorers took a trip to Shoal Creek, but this wasn’t just any outdoor adventure. They collected water from the creek, preparing for next week’s challenge in Survivor Quest: water filtration. Soon, they’ll put their engineering and problem-solving skills to work, figuring out how to turn murky creek water into something safe to drink.

With every challenge—whether in survival, art, or athletics—the Explorers continue to develop resilience, creativity, and teamwork. Next week promises new obstacles and discoveries, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish!

For more from Session 5 Week 1, click here: Explore Session 5, Week 1 photos & videos

Explore Year 6. Session 4.

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In Session 4, Explorers embraced challenges and found flow during Art, Writers’ Workshop, Quest, and Work Cycles.

 

WRITERS’ WORKSHOP

The learners in Explore wrote biographies about one of their ancestors in Session 4. They interviewed family members, researched the historical context within which their ancestor lived, and organized their findings. They drafted their biographies, conducted peer reviews, and made edits. After publishing their work, they shared their biographies with their families.

 


TYPING TIME

Explorers practiced their typing every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday in Session 4. In Typing Time, a focused 10-minute sprint dedicated to typing practice, learners challenged themselves to boost their words per minute—and many hit their stride, finding moments of deep concentration.

 

ART

Session 4 has brought collaboration between Explorers and Discoverers in both Art and P.D. In Art, learners dove into the world of songwriting! Heroes crafted lyrics for their songs, created egg shakers to add percussion to their songs, and experimented with digital tools to build instrumental backings for their compositions. To land the session, musicians from both studios came together to showcase their progress and celebrate their creative journeys with a campus-wide concert.

 

QUEST

In Session 4, learners in both the Explore and Discovery studios rose to the challenge of Chess Quest! Learners ins each studio chose a superpower, such as focus, strategy, and self-motivation, they wanted to grow during Quest. Over the course of the 6 weeks of Session4 they learned about each piece and how they move, they practiced notating each game they played, they were introduced to chess clocks, and they played in chess tournaments. Each Quest day, the learners were challenged to play a 30-minute timed chess game and notate each move. On one day, the learners played a game of human chess! Many learners shared that the timed games felt more thrilling and intense. During Socratic Discussions, Heroes explored topics like sacrifice in chess, the dynamics of fast vs. slow thinking, and the critical role of rules in games.

 

 

EXHIBITION OF LEARNING

At the Session 4 Exhibition of Learning, Explore and Discovery learners played their final tournament, a 30 minute game based on their rankings, in front of their guests. They silently and strategically played their opponents and notated every move. After their games ended, learners showed their guests some of the studio tracking visuals they use in their studios, such as their year-long maps of their Big Session Goals. After this learner-guided tour, the Explore learners shared their reflections from the session in their Showcase Presentations and fielded questions from their guests.

 

FRIDAY OUTINGS

Explorers visited the downtown Austin Public Library on a few of their Friday outings and had fun playing regular, and giant, chess. They also did not let the cold bother them as they hiked and splashed around at Bull Creek District Park on multiple occasions!

 

See you in Session 5!