Open Days
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At Dalian American International School, our Elementary School classrooms are alive with curiosity, collaboration, and joyful learning. Recently, students across grade levels have been diving into hands-on projects, strengthening core academic skills, and building the confidence to think creatively and independently.
Our reading buddies activity brought together Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2 students in our rich and bright library for a fun, engaging shared reading experience. Older students proudly supported younger learners by reading aloud, asking thoughtful questions, and encouraging them to join in. The lively setting helped spark curiosity and confidence, while the peer interaction strengthened early literacy skills and built a strong sense of community across grade levels.
As part of a Grade 3 Project-Based Learning (PBL) experience, students took on the role of designers and were challenged to plan and build a trap to capture a magical creature. To integrate real-world economics, the classroom was transformed into a materials marketplace, where students were given a limited budget and had to make thoughtful purchasing decisions.
Working in small teams, students visited the class “shop” to buy building materials, including natural materials and construction supplies, each priced separately. This process encouraged students to plan ahead, prioritise needs over wants, and understand that resources are limited. Opportunities for trading materials further reinforced economic concepts such as choice, budgeting, and value.
After purchasing their materials, students designed and built their traps, ensuring they include specific 3D shapes (sphere, cube, cone, and cylinder). Throughout the project, students were encouraged to collaborate, problem-solve, and creatively apply their learning while gaining a hands-on understanding of how planning and smart spending influence successful design outcomes.
As part of our STEM Project Based Learning, Grade 4 students worked collaboratively to design and build a raft capable of carrying their island citizens to safety. Learners used problem‑solving skills, creativity, and teamwork as they planned, tested, and refined their designs with limited materials.
The challenge connected directly to their learning about government, survival, and decision‑making, while also encouraging critical thinking, resilience, and thoughtful collaboration.
All Elementary students added their hopes and wishes to our Chinese New Year Wish Wall, creating a colourful display of their aspirations for the year ahead. As they wrote and shared their wishes, learners practiced thoughtful reflection, clear communication, and expressive writing. The activity encouraged students to consider personal goals, celebrate cultural traditions, and contribute to a shared community space. The result was a bright, joyful display that showcased both their creativity and their growing confidence as young communicators.
Collaborative projects and peer activities continue to strengthen our sense of community at DAIS Elementary. Students are practicing empathy, responsibility, and teamwork — skills that will help them thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
