Class 5 engages with peers in Sweden

On 26 September 2024, our enthusiastic 5th graders embarked on an exciting Mystery Skype session with peers at at the Örelund School near Gothenburg in Sweden, marking a day full of discovery and learning. The aim of this interactive session was to sharpen the students’ geographical knowledge, communication skills, and global awareness by connecting with peers from a different country in a fun and collaborative manner.

As part of the Mystery Skype challenge, both classrooms were tasked with uncovering each other’s locations by asking clever, yes-or-no questions. Our students, equipped with maps, globes, and atlases, worked in teams, using critical thinking and research skills to narrow down the possible locations of the Swedish classroom. The excitement was palpable as they discussed strategies, referred to their maps, and eagerly waited for clues from the Swedish students.

The environment in both classrooms buzzed with energy and focus. Our students huddled together, pointing to countries on the globe and flipping through their atlases, while across the screen, they could see their Swedish counterparts doing the same, creating a true sense of global connection. The entire experience was a live demonstration of how modern technology can bridge distances and cultures in real-time. 

By the end of the session, not only had the students accurately pinpointed Sweden, but they also learnt about life in each other’s countries. In the spirit of cultural exchange, our students sang “Vaishnav Jan To” and shared information about Mahatma Gandhi, as Gandhi Jayanti was approaching. This was met with curiosity and appreciation from the Swedish students, who then reciprocated by singing one of their national songs, adding a beautiful musical exchange to the session. 

This fun-filled, educational experience brought geography to life in a way that books alone cannot. Through this Mystery Skype, students strengthened their problem-solving abilities, geographical knowledge, and global citizenship, while also fostering a spirit of teamwork and curiosity about the world beyond their classroom walls.

It was an unforgettable experience, leaving our students eager for the next virtual journey!