STEM

In Term Three, all students from Grade’s Three and Four continue to focus on water as an important natural resource from the earth as part of their Earth and Space Science Unit. They explored where the Earth’s water comes from and how much water is available to use by investigating different sources. They learnt that water is made from two hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom is known as H2O. 

Additionally, they were able to examine where our tap water comes from by exploring the simulation of the water cycle. They identified the key processes of the water cycle identifying everyday examples such as, rain and snow is a result of precipitation, drying of wet washing is evaporation, water droplets forming on a cold-water bottle is known as condensation and what happens to water that goes down the drain. 

Further, students investigated the connection between the water cycle and climate change by researching various educational resources. They also examined the weekly weather forecast in newspapers and television broadcasts to recognise the typical temperatures in the Australian climate. 

They have been engaging in a variety of enjoyable hands-on learning tasks such as, water cycle tabletop models, water purifiers, water dams to consolidating their understanding of the key processes of the water cycle. While these concepts can be quite complex, all students have done a really great job in asking questions and participating in the ongoing learning of this unit. Students will continue to work on these practical tasks as part of their STEM Showcase for this term. I applaud their continued willingness to learn and hard work thus far! 

GRADES FIVE AND SIX 

In Term Three, all students from Grade's Five and Six continue to learn about the Earth and other planets in the Solar System as part of their Earth and Space Science Unit. The explored how the Earth rotates on its axis and how it creates day and night. They also learnt and researched the physical differences between the planets and how each planet orbits around the Sun. 

Additionally, they conducted research using the NASA website to understand how planets and the Solar System are studied by scientists in the field of space. They were able to apply mathematical concepts such as radius and diameter by comparing the different sizes and shapes of planets. 

An interesting class research activity allowed students to explore why the planets change colours at different times. This resulted in a curious discussion as to the power of the planets and how they might be made of unique materials. Additionally, students discussed the differences of the planets surfaces and why this might be the case. 

A big part of this unit was understanding how the Solar System is a small part of the galaxy and that there are many galaxies which are still undiscovered. Students have been engaging in a variety of creative and hands on learning tasks such as, creating their own solar system tabletop models, galaxies, poster of planets and making a ‘Mars Rover Craft’ using recyclable materials. Students will continue to work on these practical tasks as part of their STEM Showcase for this term. I applaud their energy and hard work this term!