The Charger Online School Newspaper

Best Lessons of the First Quarter

Article By: Nathan Casillas and Kiptyn Ball

Graphic by: Harrison Ayers

Videos By: Dani Shelton

Edited By: Kaleo Toscanodulanto and Kolby Shannon

Published By: Harrison Ayers

The first quarter has finally come to an end at Chuckey Doak High School. Over the past nine weeks, classrooms were filled with unforgettable lessons that left a lasting impact on the students who participated. Many students discovered new interests, built new habits, strengthened important skills, and learned more about themselves as scholars. Teachers also introduced creative activities and meaningful discussions that made each day feel productive.

First, Mrs. Darnell’s multimedia scavenger hunt about the natural world encouraged students to explore their surroundings with curiosity and creativity. She incorporated videos, audio clips, and interactive clues that guided her Senior English students through a series of observations. As they worked through each task, students learned how the Old English language developed into the modern language we use today. The activity also helped them practice teamwork, since many clues required collaboration and shared problem-solving. By the end of the scavenger hunt, students not only completed the challenge but also gained a deeper appreciation for British literature.

Second, Mrs. May’s color‑changing fire lab captivated students from the moment they stepped into the classroom, drawing them into a vivid demonstration of how different chemical compounds produce brilliant hues when exposed to heat. As she carefully guided her chemistry students through each step, the flames shifted from deep blues to bright greens and warm reds, creating a mesmerizing spectrum that made the underlying science feel both accessible and exciting. Students eagerly recorded their observations, comparing the reactions and discussing why certain elements produced specific colors, which helped them connect abstract concepts to tangible results. The lab fostered a sense of curiosity and collaboration, encouraging students to ask questions, test ideas, and appreciate the beauty hidden within chemical reactions. By the end of the lesson, they left with a deeper understanding of combustion and energy transfer, along with a renewed enthusiasm for exploring the wonders of science

Third, Mrs. Swinney’s cosmetology hot tools lab demonstrated how professional stylists safely use curling irons, flat irons, and other heated equipment. Her Intro to Cosmetology students observed each tool’s purpose and learned the importance of temperature control. They also practiced proper handling techniques to prevent burns and protect hair health. The lab emphasized sanitation procedures and responsible tool maintenance. Overall, the experience helped students understand the technical skills required in the cosmetology field

Next, Coach Dye next introduced a lesson focused on understanding primary and secondary sources. He explained how primary sources provide firsthand accounts of events, while secondary sources offer interpretations or analyses based on those original materials. In World History class, Students examined several examples, comparing how each type of source contributes different kinds of information. Coach Dye encouraged them to think critically about where information comes from and why that matters. By the end of the lesson, students had a clearer grasp of how to evaluate sources in their own research and writing.

Finally, Ms. Smiley’s art field trip was a memorable experience for both her and her Adavanced Ceramics class. During the trip to Myers Pumpkin Patch, they explored different forms of art and discovered how creativity can be expressed in many ways. The students enjoyed seeing real examples of artistic techniques they had only learned about in class. Ms. Smiley guided them through each exhibit, encouraging them to think deeply about what the artists were trying to communicate. Students also got to explore the farm. By the end of the trip, everyone felt inspired to bring more creativity into their own work.

Vloggers: Nathan Casillas and Kiptyn Ball

Chuckey-Doak High School
365 Ripley Island Rd, Afton, TN
(423) 798-2636