The Loft Room
6s & 7s
Patterns
This semester the children have delved into discovering, identifying and inventing patterns. We want all the children to be able to look and recognise a pattern. This ability enables us to shift our perspectives and understandings when working mathematically. Learning to look for, describe, and extend patterns are important processes for thinking algebraically. We have been exploring patterns in nature, using natural materials and physical materials in the classroom including lego and shapes. We have recited oral patterns and used our body for making patterns. We definitely needed to use the new overpass when working outside! There are lots of patterns in the design and materials of the new structure.
The children have been encouraged to design and create their own pattern and to share the rule of that pattern with others. The skills we have been focusing on in regards to number patterns have been: skip counting, addition, subtraction and sequences.
One of the mathematical terms we are using in relation to sequences is ‘core’. Identifying the core enables you to understand the repeating nature of the pattern.
During our maths sessions the children have worked in small groups with targeted teaching to work on one of these skills. Included are photographs the children took themselves and uploaded to Padlet to share their understanding of patterns on a technological platform. The images formed the basis for a discussion around patterns in which the children could look at their peers’ photographs and give feedback to their discoveries.
This semester the children have taken a keen interest in all things Renaissance. We have looked at artworks from Leonardo, Rafael, Donatello and Michelangelo. The children learnt the story of the Mona Lisa; who she was, where she was from and the story of the painting itself.
During Philosophy, Oliver used the school of Athens fresco from the Apostolic Palace in the Vatican as a platform from which to introduce traditional philosophers, their thoughts and their way of living. In Literature the children have been introduced to Romeo and Juliet (a version for children), who lived in the time of the Renaissance. These paintings have become an invaluable resource for descriptive and narrative writing. The children observe the painting with a keen eye and discuss the finer details to support their use of adjectives and creative writing.
We are extremely excited to be back for Term 4!
Talitha Crawford,
Oliver Breedon & Paul O'Leary
6s & 7s Classroom Teachers
talitha.crawford@preshil.vic.edu.au