Riverhead AP Biology Students Share Passion for Science with Elementary Schools
Riverhead High School Students Serve as Teachers for the Day in Creative Final Projects
RIVERHEAD, NEW YORK (AUGUST 2024)—As part of an innovative approach to final projects, students from Christopher McCrary’s AP biology class at Riverhead High School made a significant impact on elementary school classes throughout the district. Students prepared and taught lessons on a range of biology topics, fostering a passion for science across grade levels.
“This cooperative experience at several schools exemplifies the collaborative and enriching opportunities we strive to provide in the Riverhead Central School District,” said Riverhead Central School District Interim Superintendent Cheryl Pedisich. “It is inspiring to see our high school students step into teaching roles and share their knowledge and enthusiasm with our elementary students.”
AP biology students diligently prepared lessons that took the knowledge they accumulated throughout the year and made it digestible for younger scholars. They then visited classes at Phillips Avenue Elementary School, Pulaski Street Intermediate School, Riley Avenue Elementary School, and Roanoke Avenue Elementary School to engage in the teaching portion of their projects. The high school students engaged their younger peers in compelling science explorations, generating curiosity and excitement.
“The lessons were a huge success with students and teachers alike,” said Mr. McCrary. “We have already received numerous requests for return visits next year!”
One of the lessons was led by Shaylee Bealey, Ben Morris, and Sadie Schultz at Pulaski Street Intermediate School. The students taught Traci Zambriski’s sixth grade class about ecology, diving into abiotic and biotic factors. The AP biology students guided the sixth graders on comparing and contrasting items found in their environments as abiotic or biotic.
“It was an amazing experience for Mr. McCrary to offer his students,” said Ms. Zambriski. “My students truly enjoyed themselves and this learning experience. If any of the participating AP biology students have aspirations for becoming future educators, our children of tomorrow are very lucky.”
For more information about the Riverhead Central School District, please visit the district’s website at www.riverhead.net. Happenings in the district can also be followed on Facebook at www.facebook.com/riverheadCSD. #BlueWavesPride.
Riverhead High School AP biology students teaching an elementary school class about the states of matter
Riverhead High School AP biology students teaching a lesson for their final project
A Riverhead High School AP biology student teaching elementary school scholars about the metamorphosis of frogs
Riverhead students sharing their passion for science together
Riverhead elementary school students enjoying a lesson from a Riverhead High School student about the life cycle of frogs
Riverhead High School students enjoying teaching a lesson about abiotic and biotic factors to elementary school students