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 the scientific process and the impact this has on decision making. Boys have also begun to appreciate the scope with which they can be inquiring and experimental. Decisions were made based on information collected through questioning, research, experimenting and analysing data, demonstrating that knowledge can be power at any age.
The line-up of investigations was vast! We explored concepts of weathering, farming, erosion and natural and processed material. The boys investigated growth patterns of wheat and barley in order to inform a farmer where the greatest produce and profit margin could be gained. Properties of natural and processed materials were explored using scientific jargon and then applied to experiments to determine the most absorbent paper towelling. The pint-sized scientists weighed up absorbency against cost and were able to inform parents of the best product to purchase.
A current news topic regarding erosion in coastal New South Wales communities became our next endeavour. Donning engineering hats, students investigated erosion and measures that prevent its damage like seawalls, groynes, breakwaters, barrier walls and vegetation. Armed with knowledge, small groups built a preferred structure, tested its effectiveness and recorded suggestions for councils on how to avoid further damage to housing on coast lines.
Our next adventure was a visit to PLC. The girls invited us to a maths relay and STEM challenge. In mixed groups, we battled and pooled our scientific knowledge to solve ten tricky relay problems. This was closely followed by a technology challenge using Dash robots. It was harder than it looked programming the bots to traverse a tricky pathway. For the engineering component, a deck of cards caused untold frustration as we tried to build the tallest structure possible. A mere breath of excitement saw the structures topple and fall! After the maths relay, we then faced a new challenge: to build a balloon-charged race car. We think balloons are best used at birthday parties as our cars spluttered and choked not racing very far at all. Despite the dismal results, the laughter, fun, discussion and negotiating made the event a complete success.
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