In Splat Lab, each session features a cool main project called the “Main Splat” such as making slime, cloud clay, and rain jars. While some students work in the Main Splat area, others are rotating around the “Open Splat” stations of their choice. These are fun, youth-directed areas that change every week. Some favorites are pipe cleaner puppets, secret messages, cup castles, and rainbow area.

Youth enter the classroom and form a community circle. Circles are an important aspect of our democratic, community based culture. In circle, all youth and adults sit on the floor and are considered equal and all voices are important. The educator will then introduce the topic of study by sharing colorful photos that youth may touch, examine and question. After ideas are shared, students then choose an activity area to work on while traditional music plays. Books and extensions are always an option. At the close of class, students work together for community clean up and closing circle. In closing circle we show our work, share ideas and give each other shout outs.

Our class is a community and everyone is equal. Every student's ideas are important and valued. We often work together on collaborative projects to make jewelry, give presentations and teach back new knowledge. We close every unit by celebrating our time together, sharing what we learned and how we have grown.

Anthropologists are learning all the most important 21st century skills in every class! They are problem solving, thinking critically, practicing social emotional skills, collaborating and presenting their work. They are also learning some serious content! How many elementary students can name language spoken in Pakistan (Urdu) or the elements of ancient pueblo pottery design?