Have you ever played chess on a board made from recycled parts?
Among the most original and meaningful Personal Projects presented this year by MYP5 students at H-FARM International School Vicenza, one clearly stands out: Eco Chess, created by Giovanni Maschio. This project combines personal passion, creative spirit, and environmental awareness, culminating in a handmade chess set crafted entirely from recycled materials.
Giovanni set himself a dual challenge: to improve his design skills while also exploring the use of reclaimed materials in a responsible and informed way. His learning objective fully reflects the ethos of the Middle Years Programme, which encourages students to engage with authentic interests while developing autonomy, creativity, and critical thinking.
At the heart of the project was an in-depth research phase. Giovanni applied ATL (Approaches to Learning) skills to access reliable sources, gather information critically, and share knowledge in a meaningful way. He didn’t stop at exploring ideas – he also proposed and evaluated alternative solutions, reflecting on material options, construction techniques, and how best to present his final product. This entire process demanded flexibility and a problem-solving mindset.
WATCH THE VIDEO
The final product was a complete, fully functional chess set – board and pieces – designed and built using only recycled materials. More than just a creative exercise, it became a technical and aesthetic challenge. Every piece had to be recognizable, functional, and stylistically coherent with the game’s identity. Giovanni successfully balanced sustainability and design, demonstrating attention to detail and a clear vision.
Throughout the project, Giovanni also honed his communication and collaboration skills. He listened actively to feedback and different perspectives, incorporating suggestions to refine both his product and his message. This exchange was crucial in strengthening the quality of the project and in shaping a clear, compelling narrative around his creative choices.
But Eco Chess is more than just a handcrafted game. It delivers a strong message about the need to rethink our relationship with materials and the environment. Giovanni turned a personal interest into an opportunity for growth and responsibility, showing how creativity can become a powerful vehicle for ecological awareness and social engagement.
With Eco Chess, Giovanni Maschio gave full meaning to the Personal Project experience. It challenged him in multiple ways and helped him discover new abilities, interests, and values. His work stands as an excellent example of how the MYP empowers students to shape their voice and identity while preparing them to face the future with a strong sense of purpose and responsibility.
Giovanni, MYP Student
“there are many ways of creating something new from what already exists.”
Back
