Over the last few weeks in our neighbourhood, the students have been deeply engaged in various provocations that have sparked their curiosity. From exploring native plants and animals through scientific drawings, clay creations and performances to collecting and representing data on deforestation, our continued inquiry into the natural world has been filled with creativity, knowledge, and personal growth. A big topic of wonder has been the recent removal of trees and tree branches around our school, and we are busy making plans to bring more nature into our PHPS community next term.
Scientific Drawings and Clay Creations: Celebrating Native Plants
The 1/2 budding scientists have delved into the world of native plants, embracing their beauty and uniqueness. During provocation sessions, we honed our observational skills and created scientific drawings of native plants. These detailed renderings allowed our students to closely examine the intricate features of these plants, fostering a deeper appreciation for the wonders of nature.
Additionally, we explored our artistic talents by molding native plants out of clay during Provocations. This hands-on experience not only encouraged creativity but also helped solidify our understanding of the different parts and characteristics of these remarkable plants.
Authors Station: Sharing Our Knowledge of Native Plants and Animals
Through our author’s station, students had the opportunity to become an expert on a particular native plant or animal. The students gathered information, curated interesting facts, and shared their knowledge with enthusiasm.
Performances: Shedding Light on the Destruction of Habitat
In response to a provocation, our students created performances to raise awareness about the destruction of the habitat of an Australian native animal. With creativity and empathy, they used drama, music, and storytelling to highlight the importance of preserving our precious ecosystems. These performances not only showcased their artistic abilities but also cultivated empathy, environmental awareness, and the power of collective action.
Exploring Our Feelings: Reflections on Tree Removal
During our discussions surrounding the trees being cut down at school, we provided a safe space for our students to express their emotions. We engaged in open dialogues, encouraging them to explore their feelings and share their thoughts.
“I wonder if they will cut down any more trees?” – Lucy M
“I think it is because it can be dangerous.” – Riley
“I feel sad about it!” – Jack
Planning for Growth: Nurturing Our Broad Beans
We’ve continued to monitor the growth of our broad beans. Our students eagerly planned the next steps, considering the necessary conditions for growth and the responsibilities involved in nurturing these plants. We look forward to seeing what happens next!
Creating a 2D Shape World
To develop our mathematical and analytical skills, we embarked on a journey into the realm of shape. Through creative activities, the students developed the idea for and began construction of a vibrant 2D shape world, showcasing our understanding of shapes, patterns, and different kinds of line. This project encouraged critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration among different groups. We can’t wait to see how it ends up!