US/LS Collaborate for Hands-On Volcano Science Lesson

Upper School and Lower School students at St. Margaret’s recently joined for a cross-divisional science activity, bringing together kindergarteners and AP Environmental Science students for a dynamic volcano-building lesson in the Lower School Outdoor Classroom.

The collaborative lesson was designed and led by Upper School science teacher and department chair Edmund Herlihy and Lower School science teacher Chelsea Shoemate. The activity provided a unique opportunity for students from both divisions to engage in hands-on learning and scientific discovery together.

To kick off the lesson, students used Oreo cookies to model tectonic plate movement and explore how Earth's plates interact. From there, the LS and US students teamed up to construct sand volcanoes, using a classic baking soda and vinegar reaction to simulate eruptions. Before triggering each eruption, the teams made predictions about how different volcano characteristics might impact the surrounding environment.

Mr. Herlihy said, “Our visits to the Lower School is one of the most popular activities of the year, especially for our seniors AP Environmental Science students. They’re aware of their leadership roles on campus and strive to make the visits memorable for our school’s youngest Tartans.  These connection points with the kindergarteners also provide a bookend opportunity as the seniors begin their final academic year at a place they’ve called home for years.”

This type of cross-divisional activity is a hallmark of St. Margaret’s experience. It gives students a chance to interact in new and creative ways while deepening their learning. The lesson emphasized scientific modeling, environmental awareness, and the value of mentorship, with Upper School students guiding and encouraging their younger peers throughout the process.

Mrs. Shoemate shared, “It is truly delightful to observe both the kindergarten and Upper School students working together with such enthusiasm. It’s hard to tell which group is more excited!” 

St. Margaret’s regularly integrates cross-divisional programming into its academic calendar, thanks to its unique Early School through grade 12 campus model. These collaborative opportunities not only enrich the educational experience but also foster a strong sense of community across all grade levels.

“The kindergarten students especially benefit by seeing themselves as part of a larger science community—they realize they are learning the same subject as the older students, which helps them see science as a continuous journey. This shared experience fosters excitement and a sense of belonging for all involved,” said Mrs. Shoemate.

Cross-divisional activities embody the spirit of St. Margaret’s by connecting learners across grade levels. For the kindergarten scientists, this lesson sets a wonderful tone by sparking interest and excitement in science from the very start. 

Mrs. Shoemate adds, “These shared experiences help cultivate a lasting love of learning and curiosity about the natural world, laying a strong foundation for their future academic growth.”

The volcano project marked one of several cross-divisional activities taking place this school year, continuing a tradition of joyful and meaningful academic connections at St. Margaret’s.