Trails of Discovery
ART BOX
In the Art Box students have experienced creative freedom by making handmade Zines about something they feel passionate about. Each student made a self published booklet with a DIY spirit where they had the opportunity to explore personal and independent themes and art mediums.
We are now moving on to our new inquiry of 'Who are You?' where students will explore their chosen art form and theme related to self portrait.
By: Lisa White & Deborah Bradbury
STEM
Students involved in the trail recently participated in two engaging STEM learning experiences that challenged them to think creatively, work collaboratively, and apply their problem-solving skills.
The first challenge required students to design, build, and test a trebuchet. Working in teams, students explored the principles of force, motion, energy transfer, and counterweights while constructing their mechanical devices. Through a process of testing and refinement, they investigated how design decisions influence performance and gained a deeper understanding of engineering concepts. The excitement and friendly competition generated by the final testing sessions highlighted the value of perseverance, teamwork, and innovation.
Students also completed an online learning module developed by Monash Tech School focusing on the fascinating topic of de-extinction. They explored how advances in genetics and biotechnology may one day make it possible to bring extinct species back to life. Students examined a range of case studies and considered the potential environmental, scientific, and ethical implications of reintroducing species such as the woolly mammoth and the Tasmanian tiger.
These activities provided students with valuable opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world applications of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Most importantly, they encouraged students to ask questions, think critically about emerging technologies, and consider how innovation can be used to address future challenges.
We are proud of the enthusiasm, curiosity, and creativity demonstrated by our students throughout the program and thank our partners at Monash Tech School for supporting these enriching learning opportunities.
By: Linga Naidoo
TOP OF YOUR GAME: Developing the Complete Basketball Athlete
In Top of Your Game Basketball, students have continued to develop their knowledge, skills and understanding of what it takes to become a well-rounded athlete.
Throughout semester 1, students focused on developing their own individual training programs, identifying specific basketball skills they wanted to improve and then applying these skills in game situations. This provided students with the opportunity to take greater ownership of their development while understanding the importance of purposeful training and practice.
As we move through Semester 2, students are broadening their understanding of what it means to truly be “Top of Your Game.” Rather than focusing solely on what happens on the basketball court, students are starting to explore the many different factors that can influence sporting performance and development. Students have begun investigating areas including game analysis, sports nutrition, sports fatigue and recovery, fitness and training methods, and officiating. These topics are helping students develop a greater understanding of the preparation, knowledge and decision-making required to perform at their best.
A highlight of the Term 3 program will be an exciting opportunity to experience Wheelchair Basketball. This engaging and interactive incursion will promote diversity, acceptance and disability awareness with a strong focus on inclusion. Presented by Victorians with a disability who are actively involved in sport and recreation, students will hear unique stories of lived disability and gain valuable insight into the experiences and challenges faced by athletes with disability. Students will then have the opportunity to get involved themselves and play Wheelchair Basketball, applying their basketball skills while developing an appreciation of the different skills, challenges, teamwork and fitness requirements involved.
This experience will encourage students to look beyond traditional ideas of sporting performance and consider how sport can be adapted to provide opportunities for everyone to participate.
By expanding their knowledge both on and off the court, students are developing the tools and understanding to become not just better basketball players, but more knowledgeable, adaptable and well-rounded athletes.
By: Katie Cook
Lights, Camera, Action: Drama Club Shines On
What's been happening: the program has been buzzing with joyful rehearsals. Students have been dancing, singing, and diving into improv and acting in a fun, relaxed setting that encourages risk-taking and creativity.
Looking ahead: Many exciting events are planned, including an upcoming excursion to watch a live play that will inspire our performers and give them new ideas for stagecraft and storytelling.
By: Miriam Rodd
Beyond the Classroom
Greetings from Beyond the Classroom! Students have been furthering their work on ‘making a difference at school’ to now encompass the community. They are working in teams to plan activities that enable us to make a difference in the Warrandyte community. We will also be cooking and delivering meals to the Rotary Op Shop in Warrandyte as a means to further involve ourselves in the wellbeing of our community.
By: Vicki Boykett