Page 2 - Spotlight Issue 38

2 Kang Chiao Spotlight Qingshan Campus‧Issue 38 / January 2022

eyond

the Book

Our Neighborhood Parkshood Parkshood Parkshood Parks
Our Neighbor
Our Neighbor
Our Neighbor
~ Roxanne Sun

English Teacher, International Department
What is your favorite thing about your local neighborhood park? Do you like the trees, the
flowers, and the benches? In our recent inquiry-based project, we gave our grade four students
an opportunity to focus on designing a brand-new neighborhood park. The results were inspiring,
so let’s look at the design process they followed through the project.
It began with teachers asking their students a question: How could we design a neighborhood
park? It sounded simple at first, but students soon realized they would have to consider different
aspects of designing a park, such as the kinds of facilities they would include and what kind of
people they wanted their park to be useful for. To do this, they had to conduct research.

Designing a Park for a Specific Target Group
The research stage of this project started by looking at the
reasons people visit real neighborhood parks. Teachers asked
students a guiding question: What activities do people participate
in while they are in a park? In order to answer this question
accurately, students visited parks near their homes and made
observations. Then they returned to school to share their findings.

This research led to students understanding that different parks appeal to different groups
of people. Some parks contain playgrounds for children, while others are great for relaxing and
having picnics. Students selected a group to focus on when designing their own park. Things
like vegetation, seating, and recreation facilities were all taken into account.
In groups, students made their first design draft. Then they collaborated with others to share
ideas. They met with classmates who focused on the same target group as well as classmates
who focused on others. That way, they shared a wide range of ideas. Students considered
things they had not thought of themselves, such as providing access for elderly and disabled
people to their park.
Engaging in Authentic Learning Experiences
The real-world observations and collaboration led to park designs that were considerate of
people’s needs. One design was focused on creating a quiet, relaxed area for socializing and
making new friends. It included open spaces, picnic tables, and areas for walking dogs. These
choices would be the most appealing design for the target group: families and groups of friends.

Thanks to sharing and collaboration, the parks became more thoughtful and considerate. One
group’s park design included a playground for young children. After sharing with others, they added
a sitting area where parents could relax while watching their children play. Another group designed
a park with a large central area for playing Frisbee. After collaborating, they decided to add a net
around the outside to prevent Frisbees from flying into others. The students were mindful to make
sure everything would be safe while still allowing all sorts of activities!

Designing for Community Involvement

This project was a success because our students were able to create a
design that appealed to the target group while also meeting the needs of the
community members who would be using it the most. Things like adding a
seating area for parents may not seem like a big step in development, but for
young students, thinking about others’ needs is a sign of maturity.
Additionally, this project helped students understand the long and
complex process of designing a useful and creative space. We teachers
were happy to see their growth as they learned about considering the needs
of community members. We can't wait until next month when they display
their amazing park designs in our library!
What’s New?
What’s New?
What’s New?
What’s New?
win Quiz Contest The Lunar New Year is coming soon.
prizes
Read our new column “It’s Debatable” on Page 4. What is the
topic for this issue? It’s a nice season to reunite with our
families. It’s also a great time to read
(A) Students should have as much of a say in decision-making at some books during the vacation. We
school as their teachers. hope you enjoy doing your winter
(B) Should the government ban disposable products? vacation homework! Happy Year of
(C) Should social media be allowed for children under 13 or not? the Tiger!
Use the QR Code to submit your answer before 02/09 (Wed.)