Refugee

Ms. Rosenberg's 7th Grade ELA Class recently embarked on an incredible learning journey, blending history, literature, and hands-on STEM challenges. After reading "Refugee" by Alan Gratz, they dove into the story of the Cuban Mariel boatlift of the 1980s and experienced firsthand what it was like for Cuban refugees to build makeshift rafts.

Students built rafts from scavenged materials, aiming to keep them buoyant for 20 seconds while withstanding wind and rain, and carrying four weights. They researched images from the Mariel boatlift to understand how refugees constructed rafts from whatever items they could find.

By exploring Isabel’s and Mahmoud’s narratives, students gained profound insights into the harrowing journeys migrants undertake in their quest for freedom from authoritarian regimes.

Our young engineers showcased incredible creativity and problem-solving skills. Their perseverance and ingenuity were truly inspiring!