Exploring Magic At Home - Learning Connections

Each Arc, Brightworks students explore and engage in projects using a particular topic as the starting point or theme for learning.

Parents and family members are invited to join in on this learning journey alongside Brightworks students.

This is an invitation to explore through books, podcasts, experimentation, visiting museums, etc. that may link up to the Arc Topic. This term, the theme is MAGIC. So folks may be interested in looking into the history, science, or wonder of "Magic," or even how humanity has used magic to understand and influence the world throughout time.

We encourage you to lead with curiosity: Magic is often the "Why?" before science provides the "How."

Explore the value of symbolism: You may examine how magic isn't just about spells; it’s about human hope and the desire to protect one's community.
And check out local museums! Look for ancient artifacts, amulets, or scientific instruments to see the transition from ritual to research.

Ideas for Sparking Curiosity

by learner’s age

For Primary Explorers (K-2nd Grade)

Focus: Wonder, Observation, and Storytelling

• Ask: "What felt like magic to you today?"

• Do: Read fairytales together and discuss what the "magic" represents. Look for "nature's magic" in your backyard (growing seeds, changing seasons).

• Activity: Try simple optical illusion drawings or card tricks to discuss how our eyes can be tricked.

For Growing Scholars (3rd-5th Grade)

Focus: History, Mythology, and Early Science

• Ask: "Why do you think ancient people believed a certain object had power?"

• Do: Visit the library to find books on Greek or Egyptian mythology.

• Activity: "Kitchen Alchemy." Treat simple baking or science experiments (like vinegar and baking soda) as a bridge between magic and chemistry.

For Deep Divers (6th-8th Grade)

Focus: Anthropology, Philosophy, and Creativity

• Ask: "How did the shift from magic to science change the way we solve problems?"

• Do: Watch a fantasy movie or read a novel (like Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings) and analyze the "rules" of that magic system.

• Activity: Help them design a "magical artifact" and write a backstory for it based on the civilizations they are studying.

For High School Students

Focus: Sociology, Law, and Critical Thinking

• Ask: "In what ways does 'magic' or 'superstition' still exist in our modern society (e.g., sports rituals, lucky charms)?"

• Do: Discuss how historically, "magic" was often used to label things we didn't yet understand—including new scientific discoveries.