Class 5/6 S
Kii Class 5/6 Families,
Main Lesson – Physics
Our Physics Main Lesson has continued over the past fortnight with further investigations into the fascinating worlds of light and magnetism.
We began by exploring how white light can be separated into the colours of the visible spectrum. Using prisms, students observed how light bends (refracts) as it passes through glass, causing the colours within white light to separate and form a rainbow. We then revisited the primary and secondary colours of pigments before investigating the different behaviour of light itself. Students learned that the primary colours of light are red, green and blue. Using a light box, we blended these colours together to discover the secondary colours of light: cyan, magenta and yellow. We were also excited to observe what happens when all three primary colours of light are combined.
Our learning then turned to magnetism. Students investigated which materials are attracted to magnets and which are not, before exploring the invisible forces that surround magnets. We examined the poles of magnets and discovered that like poles repel while unlike poles attract.
We also explored the connection between magnetism and our planet, learning that the Earth behaves like a giant magnet. Students observed that a suspended magnet naturally aligns itself in a north–south direction, helping us understand how magnetism has been used for navigation throughout history.
Through a series of demonstrations, students discovered that magnetic fields act through solids, liquids and air. They were able to use a magnet to retrieve a paperclip from a glass of water, move a bulldog clip around a plate by rotating a magnet underneath, and create a “floating” paperclip by suspending it just beneath a raised magnet. These moments created plenty of excitement and wonder as students witnessed the invisible force of magnetism in action.
In Main Lesson writing, students have continued to develop their ability to communicate scientific observations in a clear, concise and impartial way. They have been carefully recording what they observed, the sequence of events, and any patterns or changes they noticed during investigations. We have focused on using precise scientific vocabulary and writing explanations that allow the reader to clearly understand what occurred. Students have further supported their written explanations through the inclusion of accompanying diagrams, recognising the important role diagrams play in communicating scientific ideas, processes and observations visually.
Alongside our Physics investigations, we have continued hearing stories from the Roman Republic. Students learned about Gaius Marius, a Roman general and politician who transformed the Roman army and played a significant role in the political changes of the late Republic. We also heard the story of Spartacus, a gladiator who led a major slave uprising against Rome. These stories have provided further insight into the challenges, conflicts and changing nature of Roman society.
Mathematics
In Mathematics, students have been developing their understanding of perimeter and area. They have been applying strategies to calculate the perimeter of a range of shapes and solving problems involving real-world contexts. Students have also been working with unknown side lengths, using their understanding of perimeter to determine missing measurements.
Students have extended this learning into the concept of area, calculating the space covered by different shapes and applying appropriate formulas. They have solved a variety of story problems involving area, developing their ability to interpret mathematical information, choose suitable strategies and explain their thinking.
Wishing you all a wonderful mid-year break.
Ngoongodjin,Robin