Letter from the Editor

I ran a magic trick with my year 7 maths the other day. Ready to play along?

Think of a number.

Double it.

Add twelve.

Take away your original number.

Take away five.

Take away your original number again.

Bet you're thinking of the number 7. #shockedemoji

In reality, it's simple math. But there in essence explores the 'magic' of learning.

I think the very essence of a science class does this so well. Chemical reactions that heat up, change colour or even change the form of a substance is always such fun to see happen. Sure, putting water above a bunsen burner will eventually make a beaker of 'boiling water' - perhaps a magic trick we've done too many times to be wowed by; but when students make dinosaur toothpaste for the first time- that's a memory they'll have for a long time.

Some people find magic in a book. I'm not just talking about fantasy books, but the very idea that a story can be so encapsulating that it transports people away so that they feel as if they're a part of the story. That's magic. 

Even music that evokes such a powerful response that it brings a listener to feel joy, or shock, or sadness. Think about that, notes played by a musical instrument by someone who you might never have met, coming through the tiny pieces of overpriced plastic, shoved into your ears making you feel something. That too can be a magical moment.

Sometimes as teachers, we feel like magicians. always seeking to find that little moment  that sparks a reaction with students. Of course, as people with a passion for our particular teaching areas, the magic we create might sometimes be selfishly for our own benefit and enjoyment- but sometimes, you might see the spark of a new curiosity or passion for someone in our class, and that in turn, is the magic of learning.

Feel free to steal the 'magic trick' above by the way; I am sure it will liven up any social occasion you might find yourself a part of.

Jack Lynch

Editor