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The Great Explorations in Math and Science programme is proving to be an excellent way for understanding the essentials of mathematics such as addition and multiplication, writes Anasuya Kesavan.
With guidance from teachers it is also a good introduction to algebra, equations, proportion, ratios and other mathematical concepts.
Laura Tucker and Joelle Clarke from the Lawrence Hall of Science concluded a three-day GEMS training programme for teachers, parents and students at the AMA School of Basic Education in Budaiya.
It was held at the AMA University campus in Salmabad.
Laura said: "This is a hands-on method that develops enquiry based thinking. Memorising does not teach you to think.
"The GEMS programme helps the student to visualise and explore, learn from mistakes and make changes. Students learn from creating three-dimensional images. In the morning workshop students made a variety of shapes that included a tent, bowl, crown, basket, piggy bank and a pyramid in a matter of minutes."
All the GEMS sets come with simple guides. The process is said to improve creativity and attention span and as the students get older their work gets more complex and abstract, said Miss Tucker.
"They understand symbolism and relationships, making of a formula and sequential patterns when they relate to actual physical objects," she explained.
At the GEMS section, 25 kits in maths and science will be used to enrich curriculum programmes. They will be integrated in the school syllabus said science co-ordinator, Sania Mirza.
"Students will be challenged to be creative," she said.
"While some will build flat shapes others will built it vertically. We also use a 'think liquid' made of corn starch called 'oobleck' to teach science methodology and different states of matter.
"Science programmes use easily available materials such as newspaper, food colour, corn, starch, sugar, cooking oil and vinegar.
"They help students touch and feel the subject they are studying while encouraging them to experiment and learn from their mistakes."
The school has become the only certified centre of the GEMS programme in Bahrain after staff completed a series of training sessions over the last four years.
