2013, Issue 11.

Stage 3 the Zone - Unplugged

Stage 3 have started their Problem, Interest and Play (PIP) unit in the Zone. It began
with the exciting arrival of our new resources ranging from large plastic water and
sand tubs to intricate electrical machines, Lego, combustion engines, and conductive
paint and thread. Students and teachers wasted no time in planning the layout of the
resource stations which will hold the resources needed for exploring the concept of
energy as part of this unit. Classes planned and then transformed their spaces into
resource stations including a play, music, creative arts, literacy, planning and
electrical station. The resources were sorted according to purpose and distributed
between the various resource stations. This process especially allowed students to
take ownership of the learning space, taking responsibility for managing and caring
for it in Term 4.

Next, students began to grapple with the vast concept of energy and the many
possible project designs. Some are planning to design or invent something new.
Others have taken existing concepts to test theories about energy, including use of
solar and water energy. As individuals or within small groups with similar ideas,
students started to plan for and put together a proposal to their teacher as a draft
outline of their main idea.

From Week 2, students will be exploring their ideas through making and playing with
resources. This includes the exciting opportunity of visiting the Design and
Technology rooms and using the equipment, as part of the making process. Many of
the Stage 3 students are particularly intrigued by the possibilities surrounding 3D
printing.

The teachers have started to create blogs about the learning taking place for PIP and
would like to invite families to take a look at them through the PETE Portal. We would
also like to thank all the parents who have already expressed interest in contributing
to this unit by sharing their expertise in a relevant area or by offering to spend some
time in the Zone. Stage 3 teachers and students are excited about this journey of
exploration and discovery into the realm of energy.

Mrs Liana Simpson

Year 5 Teacher