Restaurant Reviews, Chocolate Chemistry, and Civil War Studies (Session 2, Week 6)

Welcome to Week 6 of the Second Session’s Launchpad Newsletter!

This week in Launchpad was packed with creativity, experimentation, critical thinking, and outdoor adventure.

Genre

In Genre, learners continued working on their Restaurant Review videos. After filming the second-to-last version of their reviews, learners edited their videos using tools such as CapCut and VN Video Editor. They then gave and received peer feedback focused on script quality, content, video production, and overall presentation. Learners will use this feedback to film and edit their final Restaurant Review videos next week.

Quest

This week in Quest, learners wrapped up the Cooking and Chemistry course with lessons centered around a food loved by millions—chocolate. Learners completed their final projects by conducting their chosen experiments and writing official lab reports. This experience allowed learners to explore chemistry and cooking through their own questions while practicing a new form of writing: scientific papers, something many had never done before at Acton. In addition, learners finalized their Exhibition menus and practiced preparing their meals to ensure everything is just right for Exhibition Night.

Civics

In Civics, the focus was on the American Civil War. Learners researched key events, institutions, and conflicts that led to the war, including slavery, rising tensions between the North and South, and the secession of Southern states. They also studied influential historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Confederate General Stonewall Jackson, who was famously wounded by friendly fire. Using their research, learners debated which causes most directly led to the Civil War and reflected on personal questions such as, “Would you have joined the Civil War? Why or why not?”

Alpine Friday

On Friday, learners visited Alpine Scout Camp, a nature center we explore every three weeks. Activities included hiking, House Cup, and practicing survival skills with Zach, our survival instructor. As winter approaches and temperatures drop, staying warm became an added challenge—but it was still an exciting and memorable day outdoors.

Conclusion

Overall, this was a very busy and rewarding week filled with new challenges, learning experiences, and fun. Thanks for reading, we look forward to sharing more next week!

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