News

Diving Into Nature's Classroom & Exploring Ecosystems

The world of ecosystems came to life for our inquisitive third grade students last week! The students welcomed Mrs. Liberty Cosseti from High Touch High Tech, who led the classes through The Chain Gang, a program where students explore the food web and discover how animals adapt to their environment. There was plenty of excitement as these young students became Wildlife Ecologists for the day! 

"High Touch High Tech science field trips provide exciting opportunities for students to explore God's creation and inspire curiosity to want to know more,” says third grade teacher Christina Brazzel. “The hands-on experiments and activities meet the South Carolina Curriculum Standards and complements our BJU science curriculum. I am most excited and thankful for High Touch, High Tech experiences because it sparks interest in science and fosters curiosity through fun hands-on learning, which helps students to remember concepts and produces a desire to learn more."

 After an in-depth discussion of biotic and abiotic factors, students created their own ecosystems with gummies and pretzels before breaking off into centers that allowed them to dive deeper into the scientific world. Students explored three different stations; making their own ecosystem in a ziplock baggie, dissecting owl pellets to find the bones of the owl’s prey, and finally looking through a microscope at various slides.

Here's what a few of Mrs. Brazzel’s students had to say about this unique experience:

"I liked making a food chain out of food because I used my imagination. I learned about abiotic and biotic." - Chase Beville

"My favorite part was making a terrarium, which contains biotic and abiotic." - Micah Romfo

"I loved making habitats out of food and then eating it!!! I also loved making a terrarium and digging in owl pellets!" - Nora Brown

"I enjoyed making food chains and biomes for animals. I loved learning about producers and consumers in food chains." - Levi Hill

"My favorite part was discovering mole bones in the owl pellets, making a terrarium, making habitats and looking in a microscope." - Athan Dimitrious

"I loved the owl pellets. I liked the habitat we did and when we planted a plant." - Piper Johannesmeyer

"I liked planting grass and sorting owl pellets." - Isaac Earle

With all the excitement and "wows" throughout the day, these students were enthusiastic learners and clearly fascinated by ecosystems!

Exciting Opportunities For Student Development Though Extracurriculars

At PCA, the educational experience isn’t confined to the walls of the classroom; it extends to include vibrant and active extracurricular clubs and activities that foster personal growth and leadership development. Last Friday, our campus came alive with energy as our students participated in our Club Fair where they could learn more about all of the opportunities provided at PCA. 

From the Student Government Association, where future leaders are developed, to the Robotics Club where innovation thrives, to the Fishing Club that enjoys God’s creation – there’s a niche for everyone. This year we proudly introduced a new club – Ducks Unlimited – a testament to the diversity of clubs awaiting students.

What do these extracurriculars mean to your students? Let’s hear from them:

"Being a part of the A/V club is a free way to learn life skills and do the things you enjoy with other classmates.” - George Greene

“Getting to be a part of the Eagle Ambassadors allows me to build bonds with other students through a common interest while improving PCA culture.” Hannah Delaney and Juliet Olson

“I’m excited to learn more about hunting and fishing after school in Ducks Unlimited!” - William Newborn

Extracurriculars at PCA are more than activities, they are a place where friendships are formed, interests are discovered, and passions are pursued. Our heart is to provide experiential learning for students that integrates faith and their strengths and passions in all areas of their lives. We invite all upper school students to explore and jump into one of these opportunities this year!