CREATIVITY CAN BE TAUGHT ranklin Regional FRANKLIN REGIONAL NEWS
Critical thinking plays a crucial role in every aspect of hydroponic gardening , from planning and experimentation to problem-solving and decision-making , helping growers achieve optimal results and maximize their yields .
Fifth grade students at FR Intermediate , under the direction of Dr . Brienne May , are trying their hand at Hydroponics – the technique of growing plants using a water-based nutrient solution rather than soil . As students tend to the vegetation , they are learning the true benefits of this type of gardening which include faster plant growth , less water use , and the ability to have plants anywhere and anytime .
Two Hydroponic Stations ( a specialty cart with a water tank , pump , piping , and light that simulates the sun ) adjacent to one of the Innovation Centers are currently thriving with lettuce , cucumbers , tomatoes , pepper varieties , and several herbs . Students recently harvested tomatoes , peppers , and cilantro to make homemade salsa .
Students studying social studies at Franklin Regional Middle School enjoyed learning about the ancient Roman aqueduct system through an exciting hands-on STREAM project . Teachers Andy Tressler , Michael Vanderwater , and Brandon Aganad designed an experience that pushed students to think both Critically and Creatively .
Left to right : Jordan Azzarello , Thaman Yadlapalli , Mikayala Ellis , and Natalia Lettrich are outdoors at FRMS testing their design . Design flaws were identified after the initial run . They then worked to make corrections before retesting .
Left to right : Owen Miller , Scythe Ho , and Michael Piccolino are constructing their initial aqueduct design .
CREATIVITY CAN BE TAUGHT ranklin Regional FRANKLIN REGIONAL NEWS
A CAPACITY THAT EXISTS IN EVERYONE
Creativity refers to the ability to generate original ideas , solutions , or expressions that are both novel and valuable . It involves breaking away from conventional thinking patterns to produce something new , whether it ’ s in the form of art , literature , science , technology , business , or any other domain . Key aspects of creativity include : Originality : Creative ideas are fresh , unique , and innovative . They often involve combining existing concepts or elements in novel ways or coming up with entirely new concepts . Value : Creativity goes beyond mere novelty ; it also involves producing something that is meaningful , useful , or valuable in some way . This could be in the form of solving a problem , inspiring emotion , sparking new insights , or enhancing understanding . Flexibility : Creativity often requires the ability to think flexibly and adaptively , being open to exploring different perspectives , approaches , and possibilities . Imagination : Creative individuals have a rich imagination and are able to envision possibilities beyond what currently exists . They can visualize new ideas , scenarios , or worlds and bring them to life through their work . Expression : Creativity can manifest in various forms of expression , including art , music , writing , design , invention , entrepreneurship , and problem-solving . It ’ s about finding unique ways to communicate ideas , emotions , or solutions . Risk-taking : Creativity involves taking risks and being willing to step outside of one ’ s comfort zone . This may involve challenging conventions , experimenting with new techniques , or embracing uncertainty . Persistence : Creativity often requires perseverance and dedication . Generating truly original ideas or creations can be a challenging and iterative process that may involve setbacks , failures , and revisions .
Creativity is not limited to a select few individuals but is a capacity that exists within everyone to varying degrees . It can be cultivated and nurtured through practices such as exploration , experimentation , curiosity , and divergent thinking . Exposing individuals to inspirational sources of creativity , such as art ,
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literature , music , nature , or diverse cultural experiences , can spark new ideas and stimulate creative thinking .
Second-grade students at FR Primary work with Mrs . Katie Zollner-Steele to create musical compositions . ( Left to Right ) Emma Reitmeyer , Liza Lucas , and Olivia Hogan are working in a small music group during the elementary reteach / enrichment time called Panther Power .
The Pay It Forward Club and the Drawing Club at the FRSH participated in a “ POSITIVITY ROCKS ” project . Designed to connect creativity and citizenship , students painted rocks with messages of positivity on the back of each . These unique , colorful stones have been hidden around the Murrysville area to help spread kindness around the community . If one is found , take a photo and tag FR social media . Pictured : Rebecca Burgess and Elaine Liao
Participating in a performance opportunity allows students of all ages to show “ learned ” creativity through music , dance , facial expression , body language , vocal intonation , as well as to portray human emotion . This year , Franklin Regional Intermediate held its annual fifth-grade children ’ s musical entitled , “ The Claw .” The show included 110 students , with 80 in the cast and 35 in the crew . It was directed by Mrs . Christine Klemstine .
Franklin Regional Primary also offers this type of experience for children in the early childhood setting . This is the second year that second-grade students were able to participate in a short musical . Under the direction of Creative Arts teacher , Mrs . Amy Smith , “ BUGZ ” was a huge hit with students , staff , and families with sold out shows .