School trips are always an exciting opportunity for young minds to expand their horizons beyond the classroom, and our Year 5 students recently embarked on an unforgettable journey to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall. This excursion provided an immersive learning experience about the past, present and future of Shanghai while introducing students to the concept of sustainable urban development.
The trip began with an engaging introduction to Shanghai’s fascinating history. Through detailed exhibits, students traced the city's transformation. The museum’s displays, enriched with photographs, artefacts and digital presentations, painted a vivid picture of Shanghai’s rapid growth.
One of the key themes of our visit was learning about sustainable cities. The students discovered the importance of creating urban spaces that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility and social well-being. Interactive exhibits explained various policies that have been implemented to enhance the quality of life in Shanghai. The concept of the 15-minute convenience city planning policy was a highlight, demonstrating how urban planners design neighbourhoods so that essential services - such as schools, healthcare facilities, shops and parks - are all within a 15-minute walking distance.
Another aspect of the exhibition focused on future developments for Shanghai. The students explored architectural models and digital simulations showcasing upcoming projects aimed at making the city greener, smarter and more efficient. They were fascinated by discussions on innovative urban solutions such as smart traffic management, energy-efficient buildings and expanded green spaces.
A favourite activity among the students was the interactive skyline exhibit. Using touchscreen displays, they had the opportunity to manipulate Shanghai’s skyline, observing how different buildings fit into the cityscape. This hands-on experience made learning about urban planning far more engaging and personal.
To add an element of fun to the trip, the students participated in a scavenger hunt across the exhibition hall’s multiple floors. Divided into pairs, they eagerly set off to locate key exhibits and answer questions related to Shanghai’s development. The scavenger hunt not only reinforced their learning but also encouraged teamwork.
Our visit to the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall was a resounding success. The combination of interactive exhibits, engaging discussions and a fun-filled scavenger hunt made for a memorable learning experience. The students left with a deeper understanding of Shanghai’s past, present and future, as well as an appreciation for the importance of sustainable city planning. This trip will undoubtedly inspire them to think critically about their surroundings and the role they can play in shaping the cities of tomorrow.
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