Grade 4 students engaged in an illuminating science lesson this week by designing and building working lighthouses in Lower School science teacher David Beshk’s classroom, culminating months of hands-on learning in electricity, light, and engineering.

The lighthouse project serves as a grade 4 formative science experience, integrating concepts studied throughout the first semester. Students applied their understanding of electricity and circuits by constructing battery-powered systems that included switches, series circuits, conductors, and insulators. Using soldering irons and wire strippers, grade 4 students independently built closed circuits that powered LED lights. 

In addition to electrical engineering, the project reinforced lessons on light waves, reflection, and refraction. Grade 4 students experimented with mirrors and lenses to control how light traveled through their structures, mirroring real-world lighthouse design.

“There are many aspects of the lighthouse project that are fun,” Mr. Beshk said, “but seeing the grade 4 students light up when they solder their circuits and the LED begins to shine is the best. They are so proud that they independently built a functional electrical circuit.”

Beyond the physics, the project explored how lighthouses communicate. Students learned how light patterns and daymarks, distinctive colors and stripes painted on towers, help sailors navigate waterways and identify hazards. Each student incorporated these historical design elements into their own lighthouse while also studying the daily lives and challenges faced by lighthouse keepers.

According to Mr. Beshk, the impact of the project extends well beyond the classroom. Students spend weeks planning, researching, designing, and building their lighthouses, developing a deep connection to the material in the process.

“The sense of joy, pride, and accomplishment resonates the most,” he said. “Students often clap and cheer when their lighthouses are complete. It’s incredible to see the multi-colored LEDs glowing in a darkened classroom.”

The lighthouse project exemplifies St, Margaret’s approach to learning that encourages curiosity, creativity, and real-world application, while providing students a memorable opportunity to see science quite literally shine.