JEDDAH — Manarat International Girls' School believes that education can be imparted in many ways, and project-based learning, or (PBL) is one such way to engage students and maximize learning. Hands-on activities and projects provide a platform to showcase students' creativity, directing their energy into meaningful learning experiences. The students of grade 1 recently completed a unit on animal habitats in their Science lesson. As a follow up activity they made dioramas depicting the various habitats of animals. The projects were a commendable fusion of the students' ingenuity and knowledge. They were instructed to work under parental guidance and supervision, but the project had to be their own work.They were encouraged to use recycled and natural materials in their projects. They glued, painted and assembled the dioramas following the directions provided by their teachers along with the assistance of their parents. Admiring the array of spectacular models that lined up the corridor in front of the classrooms, Headmistress Wafaa Ashmawi said that this was a great way to involve parents and students, as it provided the former with an opportunity to contribute to their daughters' learning experience. Ashmawi encouraged the girls and appreciated their talent and hard work. She also said that academic excellence and success can be achieved through cooperation. — SG