The Thistle - An E-Newsletter of Scotch College, Perth, Western Australia

4T News

Who can believe that we are close to the end of Winter Term, with the time zooming by faster than the speed of light! There's been a bustle and busyness to the term that has seen the remarkable lads of 4T engage with an impressive sense of commitment and caring toward each other and the rigours of their learning.

The boys in 4T have spent the better part of the term ensconced in their unit of inquiry about explorers. This has allowed them to appreciate the scope with which they themselves can explore. They were Mathematics explorers when they unravelled the mysteries of time and Literacy explorers when they unlocked the four C-crets of good writing. Similarly, digital diaries recorded amazing journeys throughout the mid-year holiday period where many new lands were explored.

In considering what constitutes an actual explorer, the boys were given the opportunity for independent research into historical and modern explorers of the land, sea and sky. Their investigations highlighted the remarkable journeys people have made, the courage with which they ventured and the personal risks they each took to achieve a mission, discover something new and add value to their society or the environment.

Inspired by their research of explorers whose impact can still be felt today, the boys undertook a journey in perspective. They considered their understanding of the First Fleet settlement from the viewpoint of British settlers; be they convict, crew or captain, and that of the original, Indigenous landowners. We stretched as far back as the Macassans and pondered the impact of Australia Day as commemorative of the arrival of the First Fleet. Upon completion of the unit, we all felt enriched by our discoveries, questions, challenges and appreciation for new perspectives.

Another discovery was that of Mindfulness and its impact on our emotions, focus and attention. We adopted meditation practices in the classroom and considered breathing, posture and music as influences on our bodies and minds. We learned some technical language about the brain and understood that it is our responsibility to develop effective habits to manage the pressure of our emotions and energy. Needless to say, the boys excelled at this and became the instigators of meditation after boisterous playtimes as a means to prepare for learning.

It is safe to say that the boys enjoyed a tremendous term filled with opportunity and discovery. They are adventurous souls, every one of them, and bring to their learning a unique brand of courage. What a joy it is to work with such vibrant, creative and engaged lads. One can only look forward to the last miles of Spring Term, knowing full well it will be an exciting road to the finish.

Mrs Rebecca Turkich
Year 4 Teacher