CTC & Grapple

Critical Thinkers Chest (CTC)

Ms Ballouk

This term in CTC, our inquiry question is: How do an animal’s features help it survive? Students are exploring how an animal’s physical features support survival in its habitat, and why these features are essential for meeting its needs. Through research, observation and discussion, students are building an understanding of how animals are uniquely suited to their environments and how they depend on their habitats for survival.

Students will collect and organise information about different animals, analyse how specific features support survival, and compare animals to identify similarities, differences and patterns. They will work collaboratively to research and share ideas, while developing inquiry skills by asking thoughtful questions and drawing evidence-based conclusions.

To demonstrate their learning, students will apply their understanding by creating a poster, pamphlet and diorama showcasing how a chosen animal survives in its habitat and present it during the Expo. 

Project Based Learning - Grapple

Ms Ward

GRAPPLE is our Stage 3 inquiry learning process where students explore real-world topics through project-based learning. Students develop their critical and creative thinking skills by researching an area of interest, asking meaningful inquiry questions, analysing information from reliable sources, and presenting their learning in engaging ways such as videos, posters, dioramas, or presentations. Throughout the process, students build important skills including teamwork, problem solving, communication, and reflection. Each inquiry cycle concludes with a Grapple Expo, where students proudly share their projects with parents, peers, and teachers and receive valuable feedback to support their learning journey.

So far this year students in Stage 3 have presented projects on celebrations around the world and this term students have been focusing on natural disasters, researching a natural disaster that has happened and its impact on communities and habitats.