Mind Maps: Preparing and Planning Persuasive Writing

We have been thinking about ethical problems as part of our Inquiry, We are Explorers of the World of Ideas. The question, Is it wrong to eat animals? has made us really think and has produced some passionate arguments. Persuading the reader that your point of view is the correct one requires more than using the loudest voice. We have been unpacking the features of a powerful argument. Using passionate voice, empahatic language and logical points as well as the occasional sprinkling of facts are all useful techniques. We have used Mind Maps to organise our thinking and plan the writing. This is an example in which the author, Ewan demonstrates that he is ready to write.

Great illustrations too Ewan!

Moanamana: Trialling the new Moanamana App

Over the last few weeks we have been spending time at the Worser Bay Boat Club learning the tools for collecting Marine Science data. This, in preparation for entering into the new Marine Research data base on the Moanamana App. Now data we collect at the beach will be stored in the same place and we will be able to make comparisons with other group's data, analyisng differences and similarities over time and in different conditions. Following this approach we will build base line data for further comparisons. It is truly a wonderland when you start to look at Plankton under the microscope. There are so many questions about the species we are seeing but we are beginning to be able to navigate our way around this using other Apps like inaturalist.

Last week we launched the Waka Hourua as well as doing the Science and this week some of us sailed the Optimists, a good name for a boats used by Worser Bay kids! It was great to see our kids so confident in the water.

Perspective Paintings

We have been learning about vanishing points when drawing landscapes with perspective. Everything in the frame disappears at the same angle, to the same point. Perspective is a sophisticated concept to grasp but our students had a good go at using the ideas in these art works. Also evident are healthy dashes of Creativity!

Eastern Zones Cross Country

Today, 23 of our Year 4-6 students headed to Scot's College for the Eastern Zones Cross Country Competition. The competition was a fantastic opportunity for our kids to put weeks of training into action. Many had even been spotted out on the Scot's course over the weekend, getting in some extra practice!

The event showcased Positive Education in motion! Our kids showed Resilience as they tackled the hill and pushed through tiredness, and experienced the joy of Positive Accomplishment as they crossed the finish line. Participation in events like these support both physical wellbing and mental strength, two key pillars of Positive Health. Well done to all runners for showing up, giving it their best and supporting each other, we are proud of you!

An Introduction to Philosophy.

We have been learning about the main catogories of Philosophy: Metaphysics, Epistemology and Vales Theory. Sounds complicated doesn't it? We thought so too until we started to have conversations about it. We are all Lovers of Wisdom, the meaning of Philosopher so this task was full of interest and learning for us.

Here we can be seen deciding which catagory of Philosophy each of the questions represent.

Are all things in nature beautiful? Is it ever right to steal? Are old things beautiful? Are chemistry and Biology all the same thing? Is it ok to eat animals? These are examples of some of the questions we looked at and set under the headings above. Many of us had conversations about the questions and they got us wondering. Here are some thoughts....

Cross Country training in action!

Term 2 is off to a great start with a burst of energy and enthusiasm! Each morning, we've been focusing on cross country training as part of our Positive Health programme. We are learning techniques to improve endurance, posture, breathing, alongside stretches to support recovery. It's been fantastic to see the kid's determination and growing confidence as they notice improvements in their fitness. We're working towards our school Cross Country event next week. Whānau can support this learning at home by encouraging regular movement, weekend walks or jogs, and helping kids stay hydrated and well-rested.

Our Exhibition:

It was great to see so many of you this afternoon at our exhibition. It showcased the creativity and perhaps the quirkiness of our kids. Each of them had, very much their own angle. Expressing you own ideas in your own way is surely a big part of allowing students to thrive. Here are some beautiful shots; thanks to Carl.

Whakaoho te wairua - awaken the spirit

We always start our school day by tuning into our bodies. We call our morning routine 'whakaoho te wairua'. 'Whakaoho' means 'to awaken' or 'to revive'. 'Te wairua' means 'the spirit' or 'the soul'. So, 'whakaoho te wairua' translates to 'awaken the spirit'. This week, we have been dialling up our leadership by taking turns to lead bootcamp-style exercise routines. We finish our routine with some deep belly breaths and a quick chat about what values we are focusing on for the day ahead.

Connecting with our Councillors

This week in Māhutonga Matariki, we were fortunate to welcome back Yadana Saw and Thomas Nash, both elected Greater Wellington Regional councillors from the Green Party. Their visit was a wonderful opportunity to connect with our local leaders and engage in important discussions around issues that affect our community. Yadana and Thomas were here to gather the voices of tamariki on key decisions about public transport in Wellington. They sought our thoughts on several important topics, including bus lanes, pets on public transport, the phasing out of cash on board buses, and the fees associated with Park and Ride services. It is always inspiring to see how our ideas are valued, and how the voices of tamariki can influence decisions at the regional level.

We strongly believe in the importance of whanaungatanga with the wider community. This visit was a great example of how our students’ voices can make a difference in local governance. We are looking forward to following up this visit with a trip to the city council soon, where we hope to share our submissions and continue advocating for the needs of our community.