Operation Sippy Cup was introduced in all seventh grade science classes in the spring semester in an effort to help students become independent learners.

"Operation Sippy Cup" is the name adopted by science teachers Ms. Lisa Coleman and Ms. Amy Phillips to the project, which offers students time and choices of activities.

Students must complete work in class, and if they do not, they must attend tutorials to complete the work. No work is allowed to be taken home and finished as homework.

Appointments can also be scheduled so that work can be done.

“I like this type of learning because it’s more fun than usual, and you actually get to see what’s happening,” said Derris Cagenolatti, 7^th.

Students receive a rubric, or a timetable for a project that also includes grading guidelines. Some activities are designed to take weeks and some take only a few days.

“I kind of like the other way instead because she actually told us what to do, but now you have to do it all on your own!” said Mandy Argo, 7^th.

Students can sometimes choose between options, but also must complete certain activities.

Juliet Hernandez said she doesn’t really like Operation Sippy Cup because "nobody teaches anything and you have to do it all on your own.”

Students are graded according to how successfully they complete each activity according to the timetable.

"I love it because students can work at their own pace, and it gives them more responsibility," said Ms. Phillips. "We just finished our first unit and we're starting on our second one. It's easier now because the kids know what to expect."