E-Twinning: “Bee Healthy: discovering step by step the hidden benefits of bee products”
During the school year 2025–2026, our school, General Lyceum of Limena on island Thassos of Greece, participated in the European eTwinning project entitled “Bee Healthy: discovering step by step the hidden benefits of bee products”, an innovative interdisciplinary project focused on bee products, biotechnology, experimental learning, and international collaboration.
The project brought together schools from Greece, France, and Spain, involving:
- 48 students
- 6 teachers
Students and teachers collaborated through common activities, laboratory experiments, digital presentations, and the exchange of scientific results in English.
- General Objectives of the Project
The project was designed to develop students’ knowledge, scientific skills, communication abilities, and collaborative competencies.
Students:
Objective 1 – Understand bee products and their significance
- identified the main bee products (honey, pollen, propolis, royal jelly),
- explored their biological origin,
- understood their nutritional and medicinal value,
- investigated the importance of bees for biodiversity and ecological balance.
Objective 2 – Apply an experimental approach in biotechnology
- followed laboratory protocols,
- used scientific equipment,
- performed biochemical analyses,
- respected laboratory safety rules.
Objective 3 – Analyze and interpret scientific results
- collected and recorded scientific data,
- compared experimental results,
- interpreted scientific findings,
- drew evidence-based conclusions.
Objective 4 – Communicate scientific results in English
Students:
- used scientific vocabulary in English,
- produced oral and written scientific communication,
- presented their work through podcasts, posters, and digital presentations.
Objective 5 – Work in international collaboration
- worked in international teams,
- shared responsibilities and tasks,
- contributed to collective productions,
- developed intercultural awareness and European citizenship skills.
Project Activities
Activity 1 – Beekeeper Interview
Students participated in an interview with a professional beekeeper in order to learn about:
- the profession of beekeeping,
- the organization of the hive,
- the production and extraction of bee products,
- the ecological importance of bees.
Final Product
- Creation of group podcasts in English, with each group focusing on different themes and questions.
Skills Developed
- scientific inquiry,
- communication in English,
- teamwork and collaboration.
Activity 2 – Biotechnology Laboratory Experiments
Students carried out several laboratory analyses on bee products such as honey, pollen, propolis, and royal jelly, including:
- protein quantification,
- carbohydrate analysis,
- antioxidant activity tests,
- antibacterial activity tests,
- pH measurement,
- microscopic observations.
Among all the laboratory activities, special emphasis was placed on the following two experiments.
- Overall Benefits of the Project
Benefits for the School
The project contributed to:
- strengthening the school’s European dimension,
- promoting innovation and international cooperation,
- encouraging interdisciplinary STEM education,
- improving the school’s visibility and openness to European initiatives.
Benefits for Teachers
Teachers:
- collaborated with European colleagues,
- exchanged good educational practices,
- implemented inquiry-based and experimental teaching methods,
- enhanced their professional development.
Benefits for Students
Students:
- acquired scientific and laboratory skills,
- improved their English communication abilities,
- learned to collaborate in international teams,
- developed critical thinking and responsibility,
- became more aware of environmental protection and the importance of bees for biodiversity.
Conclusion
The eTwinning project “Bee Healthy: discovering step by step the hidden benefits of bee products” provided students and teachers with a rich and meaningful educational experience that connected:
- science with everyday life,
- theory with practice,
- biotechnology with environmental awareness,
- education with international collaboration.
Through this project, students developed valuable scientific, linguistic, digital, and social skills, while the school strengthened its participation in innovative European educational initiatives.
EXTRA ACTIVITY: Visit the Honey Museum of Thassos
During our visit to the Honey Museum of Thassos, the students had the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of bees and traditional beekeeping. The museum offered an educational and interactive experience, presenting the history of honey production on the island and the importance of beekeeping in the local culture and economy.
The students learned about the life cycle of bees, the organization of the hive, and the different stages of honey production, from collecting nectar to extracting and packaging honey. They were also introduced to both traditional and modern beekeeping tools and techniques used by local producers.
Particular emphasis was given to the unique varieties of Thassos honey, especially the famous pine honey, which is known for its rich aroma and exceptional quality. Through the exhibits and presentations, the students gained a deeper understanding of the relationship between bees, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability.
The visit was both enjoyable and informative, allowing the students to connect with the natural heritage of Thassos while appreciating the valuable work of local beekeepers.
