Learning outside the classroom

[The Patriot]

Learning outside the classroom

10-29-2010 06:10 AM

ShareThis Published:
Fri, 2010-10-29 14:05


Learning outside the classroom


Heather Joy


feature_story_photo:
Lakenheath Middle School business enterprise and family consumer science students learn to bake bread at Denver Mill. Heather Joy






Learning outside the classroom

Heather Joy

Over 60 students from Lakenheath Middle School took their learning outside the classroom in October visiting the Denver Complex and Denver Mill, southwest of Downham Market. The students from Mrs. Margaret Bruce’s business enterprise and family consumer science classes had the opportunity to learn while having a bit of fun.
At the Denver Complex students were introduced to Dan Pollard, flood risk management for the Environment Agency, who lives and works on the compound. Pollard guided the 6th through 8th grade students around the complex demonstrating how the complex’s five sluices and two locks are maintained and operated 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Students listened and watched as Pollard explained how the sluices prevent flooding in Ely and Cambridge while the locks allow boaters to transfer from higher waters to lower ones.
When students questioned Pollard about his job, he explained that one time last spring he had to divert water for almost 72 hours straight and that he is always on call. “When you have to live the job, like I do, you have to love the job,” explained Pollard when students asked him whether he liked his career.
6th grader Jared Wright learned that he didn’t want Pollard’s job, “The having to be there all the time, I wouldn’t be able to take a break, it’s not for me.”
After visiting the sluices Bruce’s students had the chance to explore the Denver Mill and see how the old traditional ways can be mixed with new technology. The mill uses oil and electricity for milling and as the last commercially working windmill in the area – wind, when it is blowing. Unfortunately for the students on the field trip, the wind was naught. However students were still able to tour the windmill and see how the different flours are produced.
Even more thrilling for most of the students was the opportunity to make their own bread. The students measured and pinched their ingredients before getting their hands and elbows into the gooey mixture. Then the students spent some time working off any aggressions or stress, pounding the dough; many using their fist, arms, and elbows throwing the full force of their body behind making the tables and floor shake.
“Know I now how hard this really is, I have a new respect for it,” commented 8th grader Jacqueline Orcutt as she rolled her dough into a braid.
While their braided or rolled bread baked, students where able to enjoy some time exploring the mill’s gift shop. Some of the students bought flour or jam for their parents others found gifts for friends or a few glittering playthings for themselves. After the retail therapy the students loaded the bus back to school with the inviting smell of their fresh baked bread as a reminder of their day of hands-on learning.








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