Learning Intentions: I can demonstrate a sustained curiosity about a scientific topic and make observations in familiar or unfamiliar contexts.
This week we went on an exciting and educational field trip to the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre! Learning Intentions: I can demonstrate a sustained curiosity about a scientific topic and make observations in familiar or unfamiliar contexts. First on our schedule of the day was a hands on workshop on Extremophiles. Using the Drake equation as our guide, students contemplated the chances of contacting intelligent life. By analyzing the information gathered by the Kepler telescope, information released by the SETI Institute as well as NASA discoveries, students came to their own conclusions on whether alien life exists somewhere in the galaxy. We then relaxed with a Planetarium Show on Exploring Extremes... a sneak peak into our next Science unit! We discovered more about how scientists use Earth-based environments as analogues for studying environments on other planets. During the show we went to one of Earth’s driest deserts, Antarctica’s largest subglacial lake, and Pavilion Lake in our own backyard to look at how scientists use technology to study extreme environments. After the show, we had our lunches and then went to see a GroundStation Canada demonstration called Planet Hunters, where we discovered more about planet-hunting techniques astronomers use and their quest to find signs of life in the Universe. We finished off our day exploring the Cosmis Courtyard Gallery, which is a space-themed, hands-on gallery where students can morph into an alien, touch a Moon rock or a meteorite. No wonder we were exhausted by the end of the day!
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For Computer Science Education Week, we celebrated by participating in an Hour of Code. The Hour of Code is an introduction to computer science. I believe that every student should have an opportunity to learn this as it is a 21st century skill that will help them in any future career path. As the students learned the basics of coding this week, they strengthened their problem-solving skills, logic, and creativity. We had so much fun doing the Hour of Code that we extended it to a WEEK of code! Learning Intentions: I can understand programming languages, including visual programming in relation to text-based programming. For our first term, the grade 7s have been learning about Early Man, while the grade 6s have been learning about Kenya and comparing it with Canadian society. For our end of term project, the students created a presentation based on these topics. The criteria was very open, allowing these to be student directed projects. The criteria, created together as a class, included that the projects be informative, creative, and engaging. We celebrated our successes and shared our learning with our parents and the rest of the school. It was a spectacular day and many people told me how impressed they were with all of the projects... each project was unique and fun! I am so proud of all of you! Learning Intentions: I can compile a body of information from a range of sources. I can deliver a formal presentation on a selected inquiry using two or more forms of representation. Throughout the term the grade 7s have been busy learning about archaeology, excavations, fossils, creation stories, stone tools, the habitats of the ancient people, and the theory of the evolution of man. Throughout the term the grade 6s have been learning about life in Kenya by going on a "safari" with our friend Whycliffe, exploring photos and videos, and learning traditional songs. Mrs. Kilbride also shared her personal experiences in Kenya with us, it was really exciting! We kicked off the month of December ice skating with our little buddies at Centennial Rink! This is a great way for us to continue building our relationships with our little buddies outside the school environment. Also, it provides us with opportunities to explore, engage, and gain an appreciation for physical activities as we aim to value and participate in daily physical activities. Thank you to all of the parents who volunteered to drive and skate with us! Also a big thank you to Caroline Vasica, who took a ton of beautiful pictures during our trip! Learning Intentions: I can develop, refine, and apply fundamental movement skills in a variety of physical activities and environments. |
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Welcome to Miss Marcakis' Grade 6/7 Class of 21st Century Learners. Archives
June 2016
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