This project was highly important as it combined collaboration, creativity, and learning about a complex topic, teen brain development. Working with a partner, we had the freedom to choose how to present our understanding, whether through a video, interview, comic, or other creative formats. My partner and I chose to create a comic, which allowed us to visually and engagingly explain how the prefrontal cortex and amygdala function during adolescence.
Learning about these parts of the brain, particularly how the prefrontal cortex (responsible for decision-making and impulse control) and the amygdala (linked to emotions and reactions) interact, gave me deeper insight into my own behaviors and thought processes. It helped me understand why teenagers, including myself, sometimes struggle with emotional regulation or impulsive decisions. This knowledge not only improved my academic understanding of neuroscience but also provided a personal framework for self-reflection and growth.
This section of my interview highlights the significant impact of devices on teenagers, emphasizing how technology shapes behavior, communication, and mental health. Through this discussion, I learned about the dual nature of devices and how they can both enhance learning and connectivity while also contributing to distractions and emotional challenges. It deepened my understanding of the importance of balancing screen time and being mindful of how technology affects daily life. This reflection has made me more aware of my own device usage and its influence on my well-being.
The first two Reading and Writing Passports significantly helped me improve my comprehension and writing skills. These tasks involved writing essays, typically at 9 or above, based on visuals, books, and prompts. Through these exercises, I learned to analyze and interpret various forms of content, which enhanced my ability to understand complex ideas and express them clearly in writing. Comparing my work from the first passport to the second, I can clearly see my growth in terms of essay development. My ability to structure arguments, provide evidence, and articulate my thoughts has improved noticeably. This progress reflects my increased confidence and proficiency in both comprehension and writing, demonstrating how consistent practice and focused effort can lead to tangible improvement.
This was a collaborative project where we worked together to write a story. It improved my teamwork skills by requiring effective communication, idea-sharing, and compromise with others to achieve a common goal. Additionally, it enhanced my writing skills by challenging me to structure narratives, develop characters, and express ideas creatively and coherently. Overall, the project helped me grow both as a collaborator and a writer.
This assignment was both engaging and enjoyable, particularly during the pumpkin explosion. As a mathematics student, it enhanced my ability to analyze and articulate graphical data, bridging real-world observations with theoretical concepts.
This artifact is important because it shows my deep understanding of graphing equations and my ability to apply concepts creatively. By designing a problem, like graphing linear equations to find their intersection, I demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to connect math to real-world scenarios. It reflects my growth in independently engaging with and applying mathematical ideas.
Some areas of growth, struggles, and some of my work
My Vision Board
I choose the quote “People come and go, thats life” because it tells me that we need to accept the change of people around you and your environment.
I choose the pictures of note taking as one of my goals this academic year is to be able to make concise and effective notes that I will use in the future.
I choose the picture of the 5 microphones because to me it represents teamwork and trust between one another. The k-pop group, G-idle, that is shown in the picture also demonstrates these characteristics.
My Goals are:
1. Boost typing speed for better efficiency
2. Enhancing time management strategies to increase work efficiency
Passion Project is an opportunity for 8th graders to explore their passions and interests. The end result can be presented in any form. Ranging from a volleyball competition to a self written book.
Me and my partner, Kaelyn, are working on project which explores the perception of emotions using art to express it.
Pickleball taught me that every day, new forms of sports are being invented, and that it is very special. This experience highlighted several key lessons and insights:
Key Takeaways
This lesson extends beyond sports, encouraging creativity and adaptability in all areas of life.
Innovation in Sports:
New sports like pickleball showcase creativity and adaptability, blending elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong.
Sports evolve to reflect societal needs, interests, and cultural shifts.
Inclusivity and Accessibility:
Pickleball is designed for people of all ages and skill levels, making it welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.
Its simplicity fosters a sense of community and connection.
The Value of Trying New Things:
Stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to unexpected joy and personal growth.
New experiences, like pickleball, remind us to stay open-minded and curious.
Sports as a Tool for Connection:
Beyond competition, sports can bring people together through laughter, teamwork, and shared moments.
Pickleball’s social nature emphasizes the importance of relationships and community.
Reinvention of Traditional Ideas:
Established activities (e.g., tennis, badminton) can be reimagined to create something fresh and exciting.
One of my biggest breakthroughs in PE was during the water polo unit. This unit taught me that a team’s success doesn’t just depend on the shooter or the star player. It relies on every single person, from the defenders to the midfielders to the goalkeeper. Everyone has a role, and each role is crucial to the team’s performance.
This unit helped me see the bigger picture in team sports. I started paying more attention to how my actions, even small ones, could impact the entire team.
I became more supportive of my teammates, cheering them on and helping them improve, because I understood that their success was my success too.
It also made me more confident in my own role, knowing that even if I wasn’t the one scoring goals, I was still contributing to the team’s success.
