Voyager Academy High School Project Exhibition Day, Nov. 25, 2024
4302 Ben Franklin Blvd.
Durham, NC 27704
Home of the Vikings
WELCOME!
(click here for a printable version)
We are happy that you came. Together we celebrate Project Based Learning at Voyager Academy High School.
What to ask...
To help guide you through exhibits, and to be a participant in the learning process, please feel free to ask students any of the following questions:
- What was the driving question for the project?
- What prior knowledge did you need to complete the project?
- What was the entry event for the project/how did the teacher present the idea of the project to you?
- How long did you have to complete the project?
- How did the project relate to a real world issue/topic?
- How would you change the project for future classes?
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我家 (My Family)
Rm: A148
Chinese Language & Culture, Dennis Baker
Driving Question(s)
你的家人都是谁？请介绍一下。(Who are all the people in your family? Please introduce them.)
Description
Chinese 1 students will be taking turns introducing their families using only Chinese language. If you're worried you won't understand what they're saying, don't worry--other Chinese 1 students will be working as their translators while they present! Come to see them in action, with "Showtimes" starting at 2:00, 2:25, and 2:50pm (check with your student to see when they might be presenting).
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The Modern Pilgrimage: Exploring Society Through Creative Characters
Rm: A149
English 4 Honors, Anna Todd
Driving Question(s)
How can literature help us understand and reflect on society?
Description
In this project, students have crafted modern-day "pilgrims" that reflect the diverse values, challenges, and social dynamics of today’s society. Inspired by Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales, each character serves as a lens through which we can critically examine and humorously reflect on the world around us. Through creative writing, artistic expression, and group collaboration, students bring their contemporary pilgrims to life, offering unique perspectives on the human experience.
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The Great American Novel Project
Rm: A150
English 3 (Honors), Andre Ross
Driving Question(s)
What does it mean to be a great American Novel?
Description
Students search for the next great American novel. Students have read a book of their choosing that they believe should be apart of the American Literary Canon. Students had to use both analysis skills and also some self reflection to complete this project. Ask them about their book they read. All students are prepared to give a 1-2 minute pitch to declare their book the next great American novel.
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Modernizing Shakespeare
Rm: A151
Honors English II , Evan Greaves
Driving Question(s)
How can we make Shakespeare more relevant to our time?
Description
Students have chosen a scene from Julius Caesar and adapted it into a modern context. Students have created storyboards and rewritten scene scripts. Students have created feedback forms to gather data to improve their work. Please share your thoughts!
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Feedback Wanted!! AI and Voyager
Rm: A151
AP Language, Evan Greaves
Driving Question(s)
How can we, as students, shape the AI policy at VAHS?
Description
Students have been researching the issue of AI in Education in order to draft a policy proposal to share with administration. At this checkpoint in their work, they have created surveys to elicit feedback from each group of stakeholders: students, parents, faculty, and administration. Please help us refine our work by responding to the appropriate survey. Students will be on hand in A151 to answer questions or chat more about their work.
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Everyon can be a leader.
Rm: B118
Viking Leadership, Steven Gatlin
Driving Question(s)
What is your leadership style?
Description
Everyone has leadership potential, but we do not always know how to tap into it. The Viking Leadership class, after studying various types of leadership styles, have created a screening tool to diagnos an indvidual's leadership style. After answering a series of questions we would love to present your leadership profile and discuss with you how to maximize your leadership potential.
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Voyagerometry
Rm: B119
Honors PreCalculus, Ken Boyer
Driving Question(s)
How Do I Measure the World?
Description
From time immemorial, humans have felt the urge to take the measure of things, so in that tradition, Honors PreCalculus students applied their math skills to measure Voyager. How wide is the pond; how tall is that pine? Ask us how we did it, what were the struggles, and how we overcame them.
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Navigating the US
Rm: B119
Math 4, Ken Boyer
Driving Question(s)
How do I navigate the US using trigonometry?
Description
Students used trigonometry to navigate to 5 US cities, collecting souvenirs, food, knowledge and experiences along the way.
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Desmos Art Project
Rm: B130
Math 3, Honors Math 3, Christian Gloade
Driving Question(s)
How can I use functions to model a work of art?
Description
Students will use the online graphing calculator Desmos to recreate a work of art using various piecewise functions to model a picture. Students must use a minimum of 50 equations and 5 different families of functions in their artwork. Come check out the amazing final projects and have students show you how it's done!
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Animals Gone Wild
Rm: B133
Foundations of Math I and Math I, Tricia Higdon
Driving Question(s)
How can I create digital art from linear equations?
Description
Students draw an animal using diagonal, vertical, and horizontal lines. Students write and enter linear equations into Desmos.com to recreate their image digitally. Come check out their amazing creations.
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Engineering Clean Water: A Student-Led Exploration of Water Quality and Filtration
Rm: C112
Earth & Environmental , Joy Batty
Driving Question(s)
How can we as Environmental Engineers create a water filtration system to clean our local water systems?
Description
In this hands-on educational project, students engaged in a practical application of environmental science by collecting and analyzing local water samples to assess initial water quality. Leveraging the Engineering Design process, they then designed and constructed water filtration systems. After assembling their systems, students retested the water samples to evaluate the effectiveness of their filtration solutions. The project required iterative adjustments and fine-tuning of the systems, allowing students to directly observe the impact of their modifications on improving water quality. This exercise not only enhanced their understanding of water pollution and treatment technologies but also reinforced critical thinking and problem-solving skills through real-world environmental applications.
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Chickens!
Rm: C113
Honors Chemistry, Lori Fortkort
Driving Question(s)
What are some properties of calcium carbonate that make it a perfect compound for eggshells? How do we get the calcium we need in our bodies?
Description
Students wanted to hatch chickens and study the chemical properties of the eggshells. We learned about calcium and calcium carbonate in class and then applied that knowledge to chickens (and humans too!). We enjoyed learning about incubating the eggs, candling them, and then caring for the live chicks for a few weeks before they were returned to their orginial facility.
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Oklahoma!
Rm: C114
Musical Theatre, Molly Paradis and Chance Gates
Driving Question(s)
How can Voyager Performing Arts create dynamic performances that impact culture and community involvement?
Description
Thirty-six actors took on the classic musical Oklahoma as a PBL project for the Fall Semester. Their culminating work was displayed for the community on November 14 &15.
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Gene Therapy & CRISPR: Gene Editing Technology to Treat Human Disorders and Diseases
Rm: C115
Honors Biology, Amelia Punt
Driving Question(s)
Should humans be able to alter the genetic blueprint of life, DNA, in regard to human genetic diseases?
Description
This gene-editing project will introduce students to a genetic disease of their choice, CRISPR-Cas9, and gene editing bioethics. Students researched CRISPR and gene editing by provided sources. Then, they selected and researched a disorder or disease that could be cured by using CRISPR technology. Lastly, students reflected and discussed the ethics of using CRISPR and other gene editing tools to treat the disease or disorder. Dr. Nate Wesley from PairWise came and spoke to students to help them make connections between what they learned and the real world of using CRISPR with health and also agriculture.
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Anatomy, You’re Pregnant! What to Expect When You’re Expecting
Rm: C115
Honors Anatomy and Physiology , Amelia Punt
Driving Question(s)
How can we learn about a pregnancy, both healthy and with complications, to learn about the reproductive system?
Description
Anatomy students updated their pregnancy journal each week to learn about each month that “their baby” was developing. They had to complete a “Cost of Having A Baby” template to understand just how much a pregnancy and baby costs. Then, students wrote a Case Study based on the pregnancy complication that they signed up for. Finally, students brought in items needed to support moms and dads at a local pregnancy resource center in Chapel Hill.
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Cells!!! Teach it to 2nd Graders
Rm: C115
Biology, Amelia Punt
Driving Question(s)
How can we teach Mr. Punt’s 2nd grade class about cells and organelles?
Description
The students’ goal was to design a fun and educational lesson plan to teach 2nd graders about cells. The lesson was designed to be age-appropriate and included an interactive activity. They were graded on their understanding of the content, creativity in lesson planning, participation, and ability to engage younger students. Students were placed in either the teaching group or activity/craft group.
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Our donation counts!
Rm: C116
ECS, Stacy Harris
Driving Question(s)
How does our actions impact others?
Description
We have purchased items for the Hurricane Helene victims and will be sending those donations to them.
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How does the force of gravity impact roller coasters?
Rm: C116
Physical Science, Dalila Lilly
Driving Question(s)
How do the physics concepts we have learned apply to engineering principles
Description
This project will allow students to demonstrate their knowledge of motion, energy, and forces, as well as other areas that may apply. It is meant to be a fun project to do in class as a group. During this project students will learn more about Newton's Laws, Gravity, types of energy, speed and acceleration. They will also use the formulas associated with each of these concepts.
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Living Sustainably- Green Island Proposal
Rm: C116
AP Environmental Science, Dalila Lilly
Driving Question(s)
How can we live sustainably even as population increases?
Description
It is the year 2100 and a new island has been discovered that is completely untouched by humans. There is now a competition to decide who will be allowed to colonize the island and establish a society there. By 2100, climate change has become a very serious problem. The average global temperature is higher than ever before. Because of this, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has decided that whoever takes over the island must create the smallest carbon footprint possible. Students must come up with a plan for how they would set up a new society on the island. They will then create a proposal to discuss their carbon footprint.
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Civil War Battles Project
Rm: D121
American History 1st and 2nd , Christian Tardieu
Driving Question(s)
What were different turning points of the American Civil War?
Description
Students are to research different battles of the American Civil War and identify background and context of the moments leading up to the battle and analyze the impact and effect the battle had on the outcome of the American Civil War
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Messages in Art
Rm: D122
World History, Lauren Morris
Driving Question(s)
How is art used to share messages?
Description
Photo collage and descriptions of art used by an Absolute Monarch, art used by a non-Monarch from this time period (1750-1914), and YOU!
Your collage can be hand drawn or photographs, but it does need to be in color. Each image will also need a description that explains the message of each portrait and how that message is conveyed. Descriptions should be at least 5 complete sentences (8 for honors).
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Marketing Around the Globe
Rm: D123
Marketing, Altrenna Patterson
Driving Question(s)
Can you explain the role of promotion as a marketing function?
Description
Students will compete and try to get the most "Yes" responses to the sell of their home in foreign countries, based on the tri-fold brochure they have created marketing the property.
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Marketing Around the Globe
Rm: D123
Marketing, Altrenna Patterson
Driving Question(s)
Can you explain the role of promotion as a marketing function?
Description
Students will use their knowledge of promotion to create a tri-fold brochure advertising the sale of a real home in each of the countries assigned to them based on the attributes of the home provided by the realtor’s website from that country.
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Biografía de una Personalidad Hispana
Rm: D126
Spanish 2, Nuria Vicens
Driving Question(s)
Can I create an oral report and a slideshow presentation of a notable Hispanic personality using the vocabulary and grammar rules I have learned in class?
Description
Students selected a notable Hispanic personality to research.
Students then wrote an informative report completely in Spanish. In order to properly communicate, students used the present, preterite and imperfect Spanish verb tenses.
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Cuentos Infantiles: Spanish Language Children's Books
Rm: D126
Spanish 1, Nuria Vicens
Driving Question(s)
Can I write a children’s book in Spanish using the vocabulary and grammar rules I have learned in class?
Description
Students were tasked with writing and illustrating a children’s book using the vocabulary and grammar we have covered in class. To prepare, students visited VAES kindergarten and first grade classroom and read children's books to the students. During the classroom visit the students asked the kindergarten and first graders what they like to do and what they like to read about.
They used their experience in the elementary classrooms to help them craft an engaging story. Once their books were completed, they returned to the VAES and presented their books to kindergarten and first grade classes.
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US States Road Trip Project
Rm: E135
US History, Sallie Hambrick
Driving Question(s)
As a travel agent for your state, how would you "sell" people on visiting the state you researched?
Description
Students are researching states by creating a poster, a write up history, and brochure to show how enticing it would be to visit this state, and how they, as the representative travel agent, would convince others to visit and enjoy what this state has to offer.
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Country Road Trip Project
Rm: E135
World History, Sallie Hambrick
Driving Question(s)
As a travel agent for your country, how would you "sell" people on visiting the country you researched?
Description
Students are researching different countries around the world by creating a poster, a write up of the history, and a brochure to show how enticing it would be to visit that country, and how they, as the representative travel agent, would convince others to visit and enjoy what this country has to offer.
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US States Road Trip Project
Rm: E135
US History, Sallie Hambrick
Driving Question(s)
As a travel agent for your state, how would you "sell" people on visiting the state you researched?
Description
Students are researching different states in the US by creating a poster, a write up of the history, and a brochure to show how enticing it would be to visit this state, and how they, as the representative travel agent, would convince others to visit and enjoy what this state has to offer.
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Name that tune!
Rm: E136
Year 2 Band, Max Puhala
Driving Question(s)
What makes a melody recognizable?
Description
Come hear students play well-known melodies, and see if you can guess what song they are playing! There are over 15 tunes to guess, and there will be prizes for those with the most correct guesses!
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“Passport to the World: Discovering Hispanic Heritage”
Rm: E140
Media Studies, Darryl Patterson
Driving Question(s)
How can we creatively communicate the cultural, historical, and geographical uniqueness of a Hispanic country to inspire others to explore its heritage?
Description
In this project, students will create an informative and visually engaging brochure about a Hispanic country of their choice. The brochure will highlight key aspects such as the country’s culture, history, geography, traditions, and significant contributions to the world. Through research, design, and creativity, students will craft a compelling resource that educates and inspires readers to explore and appreciate the richness of Hispanic heritage.
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"Stories Come to Life: A Puppet Show Adventure"
Rm: E140
English 1, Darryl Patterson
Driving Question(s)
How can we work together to solve problems?
Description
High school students came together to design and perform a puppet show aimed at teaching valuable life lessons to kindergarteners. The students designed their own puppets with unique personalities and roles in the story. They then collaborated to write and rehearse a show that would engage and entertain the young audience while delivering important messages about friendship, kindness, problem-solving, and teamwork.
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Salud Global, Impacto local
Rm: E141
Spanish 3 (second period), Deja Price
Driving Question(s)
How can we encourage access to healthcare worldwide?
Description
Students created life-sized infographics related to illnesses prevalent in Spanish-speaking countries. Students created visuals with written elements that explain the transmission, symptoms, community impact, and helpful tips related to their disease/illness. Come by and interact with our LIVE polls and answer questions about your knowledge of global health.
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How to Save a Life
Rm: GYM
Health/Physical Education, Alexandra Kehoe
Driving Question(s)
How does one perform the check, call, care process when someone becomes unconscious?
Description
Students will demonstrate the check, call, care process in a scenario in which someone becomes unconscious. CPR awareness videos, created by the students, will also be posted via a QR code for viewing.
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How to become a Better Athlete
Rm: GYM
Strength Training, Alexandra Kehoe
Driving Question(s)
In what ways can an athlete improve their skill related fitness components in order to become a better athlete?
Description
Student created videos will be displayed via QR code for your viewing. In these videos, students will demonstrate various exercises to improve one of the skill related fitness components.
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