Science at CreaNova School.
By Mireia Provencio
Tutor of the Parks Group
At CreaNova, science—like all other subjects—is experienced and learned through the Learning by Doing methodology. This approach places the student at the center of the learning process and fosters a direct connection between theoretical knowledge and everyday life. In biology and chemistry classes, this philosophy translates into practical activities, pair work, group projects, and collaborative initiatives in which all students are actively involved.
By following this methodology, activities are designed to connect theoretical concepts with real-life experiences. The Genetics Cluedo activity, carried out with fourth-year ESO students, is a playful and educational exercise centered around a fictional murder. In small groups, students complete tasks to unlock new clues, interpret them using their knowledge base, and progress toward solving the case. This activity allows for deeper exploration of genetics while reinforcing previously acquired knowledge.
In contrast, first-year ESO students engaged in activities such as exploring the school grounds to identify flora and fauna, which was key to understanding taxonomy. Additionally, making bread and yogurt helped them study the kingdoms of fungi and monera, offering a fresh perspective on bacteria and yeasts.
Quimilab: The Heart of Science at CreaNova
With the recent inauguration of the Quimilab, a fully equipped space for exploring chemistry, biology, and other scientific fields, students have the opportunity to engage in activities as varied as microbiology, geology, and immunology. This laboratory, designed for practical classes and both individual and group tasks, serves as the hub of innovation and experimentation at CreaNova.
Connecting Subjects to Real Life:
At CreaNova, science is not taught in isolation. Cross-disciplinary projects are a cornerstone that helps students understand how subjects interconnect with one another and with daily life. In the Around the World project for third-year ESO, students created a travel agency. This project involved researching the climates of different destinations, designing routes, and preparing packing lists while considering climatic and cultural factors.
The school also promotes values such as sustainability and critical thinking. For instance, on the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste, students worked on a biology project to design a healthy and sustainable menu. They also researched scientific innovations aimed at reducing food waste.
Technology in Service of Science:
To enhance learning, students also use Labster, a digital platform that simulates experiments and allows them to explore complex concepts that may not always be feasible to work on in the lab due to resource constraints. This tool complements practical activities and ensures that all students can progress at their own pace in an individualized learning environment.
Thus, science classes at CreaNova stand out for connecting scientific knowledge with real life, empowering students to grow into critical and committed individuals, prepared to contribute to their future and the planet.