The apple tree

Creativity is an essential part of a child’s learning process. In a recent class activity a group of young teens, who are getting ready for the KEY (A2), created a special piece of art.

In class they had been studying the first conditional and target vocabulary on the natural environment. They then put these two ideas together and created an ‘apple tree’. The apples on this tree represent ideas on how to improve the condition on our planet. The work done in class is quite impressive. Furthermore, it reflects teenagers’ concern for recycling, and the importance of saving water and energy. They are ready to make a change and this is their contribution.

Let’s have a look at the project more closely. Among their thoughts we find ideas like: If we cut down trees, we will lose a lot of species; or unless we stop overfishing, the oceans will have less fish; or we will save energy if we turn the TV off completely.

Everything in the project was the students’ own ideas: the drawing of the tree, the shape of the apples and the leaves. The main idea of this project- raise awareness of the state of the environment, has been achieved.

The truth is these types of activities fulfil our expectations. Looking at our students putting together their ideas and creating something like this makes us feel proud of them. It is also a great way to work in parallel with the course book, but at the same time to keep in line with the target grammar and vocabulary taught in class. According to the students, doing these projects from time to time helps them realize their power of communication and their potential.

Our students don’t stop surprising us. Also a special word of gratitude goes to our teachers who give them the opportunity to show what they can do and how creative they are.