Grade 1 Report

Exploring the Past in Grade One

The Grade One students have been busy investigating the past in our history unit, ‘Then and Now’. They have been examining old photos and objects, asking questions, and making comparisons between life in the past and how we live today. 

On Monday 19th May, the students enjoyed a fantastic excursion to the Melbourne Museum to see the ‘My Grandmother’s Toy Box’ exhibition. This exhibition, based on an illustrated storybook, showcases toys passed down through generations. It offered a valuable opportunity for students to explore toys from the past and compare them with their own. 

Children were fascinated by the changes in toys over time, from handmade dolls to early computer games and even a Box Brownie camera. Students eagerly asked insightful questions and shared their own stories like true historians. It was such a fun and engaging way to deepen their understanding of how everyday life has changed across generations.

“I loved seeing the old video game called ‘Caveman’. It looked cool. I would love to play that game! “(Zephyr 1AD)

“We learnt that some toys in the olden days were made out of lead which is poisonous.” (Ivy 1AD)

“I loved listening to the story ‘My Grandmother’s Toy Box’.  I loved it when the chest was opened and we got to see all the old toys.” (Sadie 1AD)

“The skipping rope is one toy that hasn’t really changed much and is still played with today. I don’t know how to skip yet, but I can’t wait to learn because it looks like so much fun.” (Olivia 1AD)

In addition to ‘My Grandmother’s Toy Box’, the students also explored other exciting museum displays such as Dinosaur Walk, Bugs Alive!, Dynamic Earth, Triceratops, and Melbourne Story. These experiences helped build a deeper appreciation of how our world continues to change over time.

“I really loved looking at the huntsman. It was so big. I also loved the giant red back. I’m not scared of spiders because once there was a giant huntsman in my grandpa’s shed.” (Eddie 1AD)

“I liked it when we walked through the Dinosaur World, and it was like walking through a real thunderstorm.” (Zoey 1AD) 

“Seeing those dinosaur bones made me think that if they were real dinosaurs I would be terrified.” (Sye 1AD)

“I loved seeing the way the earth has changed and looks different from how it did in the past. I also loved having my mum help on the excursion because we had so much fun.” (Lucy 1AD)

“Walking through the rain forest was calming and relaxing and gave us a chance to cool down.” (Daphne 1AD)

“Having a play at the park at the end of the day was super fun.” (Alastair 1AD)

The Grade 1 children had a fantastic time at the Museum and after all the exploring, they especially loved having a play at the playground - the perfect way to end an exciting day.