Waste Not, Want Not: Grade 12s Individually Design Self-Sustaining Restrooms for the Astro!
Our Grade 12 Mathematical Literacy recently girls undertook an inspiring and hands-on individual project that not only put their mathematical skills to the test but also championed sustainability and self-sufficiency. The challenge? To design and build a model restroom for the bustling St Mary's DSG astroturf area using only recycled materials, with the crucial addition that the restrooms needed to be self-sustaining, incorporating a JoJo tank for water collection and solar panels for energy.
This wasn't just about sticking together cardboard boxes! The project kicked off with a crucial planning phase. Each girl had to put on their architect hat and design a detailed floor plan for their envisioned restroom. This involved careful consideration of dimensions, layout, and accessibility, all while adhering to a specific scale. Think miniature toilets, tiny sinks, and perfectly proportioned doorways – all meticulously drawn to represent a real-life structure. The design also had to cleverly integrate spaces for the JoJo tank and solar panels, ensuring their functionality within the overall model.
Once their floor plans were finalised and approved, the real fun (and the real challenge!) began. Armed with their scaled drawings, the girls delved individually into the world of recycled materials. Suddenly, empty plastic bottles became potential walls, discarded cardboard transformed into sturdy structures, and old newspapers found new life as decorative elements. The creativity and resourcefulness on individual display were truly remarkable, especially as the girls ingeniously fashioned miniature JoJo tanks from various containers and solar panels from reflective materials.
Walking through the classroom during the construction phase was like stepping into a miniature eco-village, with each learner engrossed in their own unique creation. They problem-solved and innovated independently, figuring out the best ways to manipulate their chosen materials to bring their designs to life. There were individual moments of triumph when a tricky corner was perfectly joined, or when their self-designed JoJo tank looked just right. But through it all, the girls persevered, their individual commitment to the task unwavering, driven by the goal of creating a truly self-sufficient model.
The results were nothing short of impressive. Each model restroom showcased a unique design and a clever use of recycled resources, demonstrating a deep understanding of sustainable principles. From miniature JoJo tanks meticulously positioned for water harvesting to tiny solar panels angled to catch the "sun," the ingenuity of our learners shone brightly on an individual level. They demonstrated a deep understanding of scale and proportion, translating their mathematical calculations into tangible, three-dimensional models that highlighted the vital components of a self-sustaining system.
More than just a mathematical exercise, this project instilled valuable lessons in environmental awareness, resourcefulness, independent problem-solving, and the critical importance of self-sufficiency. Our Grade 12 Mathematical Literacy girls proved that with a little creativity and a lot of calculation, individuals can find sustainable solutions to everyday needs, even in the context of essential infrastructure like restrooms. Who knows, perhaps one day their innovative designs will inspire the real, self-sustaining restrooms at the astroturf area!
Well done to all the girls for their hard work, dedication, and fantastic individual creations! This project is a shining example of how Mathematical Literacy can be applied in practical and meaningful ways, making a real difference in our school community and beyond through the efforts of everyone.
