Geography Projects Display Student Knowledge, Teamwork

The Atomium in Brussels was originally constructed for Expo 58, the 1958 Brussels World's Fair.

Each semester, geography students present projects that display their knowledge of one country--its topography, politics, religion, tourism sites, social issues, and more. A panel of judges evaluates the scale models, eats authentic 4-course meals, and views student videos and maps.

Lindsey Santana, a judge for the seniors' projects last Sunday, May 8, said, "I was immensely impressed with the quality of the models, especially by the students' use of Campion's 3D printer and CNC machine. The food was also impressive. The baklava and stuffed tofu were standouts!" The countries presented this week were Nepal, Israel, and Indonesia.

Geography teacher Nate Marin collaborated with librarian Lindsey Santana to help students access information about the countries. "From the infographics to the meal menus, everything was improved this year thanks to the collaboration with library," Marin said.

After viewing information on Israel and the Dome of the Rock, judges were treated to hummus and baklava.

Belgian watercress salad was the first course from one of the freshmen's meals.

This model of Tugu Monumen Nasional was lit up from the inside with lights powered by a battery pack.