WALT: calculate the distance our clothes have travelled from across the world

The children used the information they gathered from their previous lesson to measure how far their clothes had travelled using a ruler. They then converted this measurement into km by multiplying by 1000. 

WALT: complete a science investigation

The boys and girls were posed with a question ‘Which material is the best insulator?’ The children then used a a cup of water and wrapped the same cup in different materials and poured hot water into the cup then monitored the temperature change over a 15 minute period. The children observed the results and calculated the difference between the starting temperature and the end temperature. A fun investigation completed and using our maths skills during Maths Week Ireland 2023. 

WALT: create a pillow cover using a braiding technique 

The children were tasked with creating a pillow cover using a wool and using a braiding technique. They found the task challenging but very enjoyable. They made the pillow cover and then filled it with soft pillow stuffing. Thanks to Mrs. Elliott who lead the workshop for the boys and girls. 

WALT: create a jumping game using block code and Scratch 2.0

The children used Scratch 2.0 to create their very own jumping game. They got the opportunity to follow a set of instructions and code the game. They choose their own sprite and background. This proved challenging for the children at the start but most were able to follow the code and create their own game. We will continue to do further coding to improve their knowledge and skills of block coding. An enjoyable lesson for the children who really were engaged throughout and enjoyed the challenge. 

Chest, Heart and Stroke Workshop

The children participated in a workshop with Chest, Heart and Stroke charity. They were discussing the big food plate and what their diet should consist of. They learnt all about how much sugar is contained in some of their favourite treats and drinks. They also talked about the importance of eating a balanced diet and eating as much fruit and veg as possible. This is the first of three workshops they will be taking part in. 

Chest, Heart and Stroke Workshop - Part 2

The primary 6 and 5/6 classes enjoyed their second workshop with Chest, Heart and Stroke where they were learning their 'Monkey Moves'. This workshop discussed the importance of incorporating physical activity in our daily lives and how many minutes we should be getting each day. An enjoyable session and next week they're learning all about the importance of sleep.

Man United Foundation - NI Science Week - Human Body

The children enjoyed an online workshop hosted by the Manchester United Foundation as part of Nani Science Week which linked very closely to our Human Body topic. The children firstly learnt all about the history of Man United and then learnt all about the importance of keeping our bodies healthy in order to exercise. They learnt all about the components of fitness and took part in some classroom activities to get them up and moving. 

WALT: build a 3D building using blocks to show an architectural design 

The boys and girls began their new WAU topic The Vikings. They researched Viking Longhouses and were able to save these images as a reference. They then planned what materials they would select for the project. They built their design using Minecraft Education. They then were able to discuss their finished projects to their partners and to the class.

WALT: investigate does a greater surface area create more air resistance 

The boys and girls were hard at work creating their own science investigation. They were testing “Does the bigger parachute create more air resistance”. As a class we discussed the importance of a fair test and that if we wanted to test one thing everything else would have to stay the same so our results would be more accurate. The children got to work and started measuring and making their parachutes (15cm, 20cm, 25cm and 30cm). Before the experiment began we discussed which parachute would create the greatest air resistance. The children dropped the parachutes three times each and timed how long it took for the parachute to hit the ground. They took an average of each drop. In the end, it was evident that the bigger parachute took longer to reach the ground. At the end we evaluated our science experiment and discussed what the limiting factors were and how we could change the experiment if we did it again. Lastly, the children incorporated digital art into their investigation by taking photos of each of stage of the method and sequenced these using Adobe Express. 

WALT: research information about the Vikings using topic books

The children spent time today reading through Viking topic books to help them further their knowledge. They were able to use the contents page to help focus their research into the particular areas they wanted. A great way to discuss key facts about the Vikings while also completing some independent work and study. This was a change from the modern method of using a search engine on an iPad. The children were then able to discuss these facts with children at their table and with the rest of the class. 

Viking Experience 

The children from Primary 5/6 and Primary 6 got to enjoy an exciting Viking experience. They began the day with a fantastic art workshop lead by Mrs. Henderson. The children made a piece of Viking jewellery using model clay. They engraved their initial into the clay using Viking Runes and then thread a piece of strong through to create a necklace. Later, the children met some real-life Viking warriors and maid. They got to share their knowledge of Vikings and what they have learnt. They got to hold real weapons and learn about authentic Viking artefacts. At the end of the workshop, they got to form a shield wall and charge at the Vikings and fight in a battle. Many thanks to The DeCourcey Knights group who worked brilliantly with the children and to Elle Mae's Grandfather Harry Cheevers for leading the workshop.