Our second graders recently wrapped up their Amplify CKLA Ancient Greece study in the most memorable way possible—by hosting their very own Second Grade Olympics! Over the course of two action-packed days, students stepped back in time to experience the creativity, innovation, and athletic spirit of Ancient Greece through hands-on learning and collaborative challenges.
To kick off the event, students participated in a festive Opening Ceremony, proudly wearing Laurel Wreath crowns, just like ancient Olympic champions. The celebration concluded with a Closing Ceremony, giving the entire school community a chance to cheer on students as we paraded through the building. These moments inspired the Olympic Spirit and we can’t wait to watch the winter games and connect back to the ancient roots we studied.
The Olympic Games provided a meaningful way for students to synthesize what they had learned during our Ancient Greece unit while engaging in problem-solving, collaboration, and perseverance. Each event was inspired by Greek culture, engineering, or athletic traditions and designed to be developmentally appropriate, engaging, and fun.
Our Olympic Events
🐎 Horse Racing Relays
Using pool noodles and horse heads, students competed in relay-style races that encouraged cooperation, balance, and sportsmanship—just like athletes in Ancient Greece.
🚀 Straw Rockets
With straw launchers, straws, and clay, students explored force and motion by designing and launching rockets. This event was a modern take on the concept of javelin toss, encouraging problem solving with regards to adjusting angle and strength in order to accurately hit targets.
🏛️ Architecture Challenge
Inspired by Greek temples and structures, students used Keva planks to design and build stable architectural creations. This activity highlighted planning, balance, and teamwork.
🤸 Gymnastics Path
Painters tape placed on the floor created movement paths for students to follow, testing coordination, focus, and body control while reinforcing discipline in athletic training.
⛷️ Ski Jumping Engineering
Using popsicle sticks, pipe cleaners, tape, and weights, students designed ski jump structures and tested how design changes impacted performance. This event blended engineering with critical thinking. Students communicated as teammates and had to express their desired height adjustments to the slope.
🚣 Rowing Challenge
Tubs of water and popsicle sticks became rowing courses where students experimented with propulsion and teamwork, reinforcing STEM concepts through play and discovery.
More Than Just Games
While the Olympics were full of laughter and friendly competition, they were also rooted in strong instructional purpose. Students practiced collaboration, applied knowledge from our CKLA unit, and built connections across history, science, engineering, and physical activity. Most importantly, they demonstrated perseverance, creativity, and respect—values that were just as important in Ancient Greece as they are today.
The Second Grade Olympics were a powerful reminder that learning comes alive when students are actively engaged, curious, and having fun. We are incredibly proud of our young learners and the enthusiasm they brought to this experience.
🏅 It was a great day to be a learner—and a great day to be a Royal! 🏅
Written By: HBRES Principal, Deb Kabasenche