A cohesive whole built up of distinct parts; The underlying shape of a solid.
Our practicum group was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to go on a 7-hour taxivan field trip to a province (and town) called Buriram, and went to a neighbouring village where the wife of one of our supervisors comes from.
Like the probinsya of the Philippines, the place we went to was a mix of modern and traditional, and young and old. Amidst the rice paddies, water buffaloes, and green pastures, there was a prestigious university, complete with a Faculty of Education. At the dorm rooms was where we stayed for two nights.
The term "traditional" really hit me upon arrival to our supervisor's home, currently being built -- its design was based on traditional Thai huts on stilts. The upstairs of the place is the sleeping area, and the open area beneath it will be the common room for cooking and lounging.
This traditional architectural style is effective here in Thailand, but obviously not suited for Canada. In grade seven, students can research this in great detail in Cluster 3: Forces and Structures.
Topics like the following can be discussed:
- How is the load supported?
- What are the forces acting on this structure?
- How does this structure remain stable?
- Where is the centre of gravity on this structure?
This is a great way of applying social studies in with science, as one can also delve into Thai culture and history.
"Science and technology revolutionize our lives, but memory, tradition and myth frame our response."
- Arthur Schlesinger, Jr.
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