Schools

New London Students Are On Board With Masts And Math, Sailing and Science

The Mystic Whaler becomes a floating classroom for students from Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School to learn about simple machines and how to use them.

A press release from New London School District

This afternoon, a group of New London middle school students will have the opportunity to use the famous Mystic Whaler, a reproduction of a late 19th century coastal cargo schooner, as their classroom.

Approximately 15 students from Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School's STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and Leadership program will arrive at the schooner with one goal: to evaluate simple machines.

As part of the school's special partnership with New England Science & Sailing (NESS), the students will learn the intricacies of preparing a ship for sail, each step of which connects to the school's STEM theme. With the help of the Mystic Whaler, its captain and crew, the STEM leadership students will learn how to describe the six simple machines used on the Mystic Whaler and their application to sailing. They will also identify the difference between fixed and moveable pulleys, apply the mechanical advantage of a pulley when raising or trimming sails and learn specific boat terminology.

The New London STEM Leadership program at NESS is designed to foster an interest in science, technology, engineering, and math through hands-on integrated learning opportunities. NESS uses sailing, marine science and adventure sports as a catalyst for building teamwork, self-reliance, teaching respect and responsibility for the sea. Students will also learn to be safe and comfortable sailing boats in Stonington Harbor and exploring the local ecosystems by power boat and kayak.

Also, in its second year with the Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School Leadership program, NESS has continued its partnership with US Sailing and commitment to their STEM-based REACH program. Students will complete 10 US Sailing REACH modules, like the simple machines, over the course of the academic school year in addition to several other NESS modules totaling over 25 unique modules.
 


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