Kakapo class have been busy learning about Volcanoes. In groups they researched, constructed and painted their own paper mache volcano. They then presented this to other classes in the school and demonstrated an eruption using baking soda and vinegar.

During Term 3, Kakariki have been learning all about forces and simple machines.  This week, they put their learning into action as part of our technology unit (toy making).  They used their knowledge of friction and wheels and axles to design and make peg cars.  They did a fantastic job!   It was great to see them working together collaboratively and continually evaluating their designs to improve and perfect their cars!

This term we have learnt about simple machines.  We enjoyed exploring and discovering the term, “levers”. Using our prior knowledge on levers we built our very own Popsicle Sticks Catapults during our weekly STEM lesson. We used technology and engineering skills to build our catapults; we used Maths to determine the supplies we needed, and we used science to test how far the catapults flung the marbles.  The children really enjoyed this activity which further developed their critical thinking, problem solving and collaborative skills.

We asked for your 'Lockdown Learning' photos .. and you sent us some really great pics.  Here's a gallery of those received  so far.  Keep them coming!!

As part of our topic on Festivals and Celebrations, Pukeko Class had their own Chinese New Year celebration on Friday. The children practised cutting skills by making lanterns to decorate the classroom. They had a go at using chopsticks to eat noodles and they even made a dragon so they could do some dragon dancing. We had great fun!

Last term our students enjoyed  some clay modelling sessions under the expert eye of artist and Mt Carmel parent, Natalie Stamilla.  Take a look at their fantastic creations in the gallery below.

The children of Kea have created portraits of their 'royal' selves.  In the planning stages the children looked at the symmetry and portion of their faces using a mirror to determine the position and shape of their own facial features.  They also considered what would make them 'royal' - the clothes they draw, a crown perhaps, and finally a title of King, Queen, Prince or Princess.  Using pencil drawing first, then paint, then a finishing touch of glitter - how majestic the final masterpieces are!

Our senior student observations of Mt Carmel, displayed in the admin entrance during Term 1, 2019.

As part of their Sustainability and Technology unit, Tui class have been learning new skills to create a Wall Hanging art piece made out of recycled fabrics. The process began with a concept drawing where each child drew their own unique design. These designs were then cut out of recycled fabric, and sewn onto a backing fabric square. All the squares will be sewn together to create the finished article. The children then used the iPad's to create a Poster advertising a raffle that they will organise when the wall hanging is complete. Proceeds from the raffle will be donated to a charity the children have chosen. This project has involved design, sewing and technology skills and the children have really  enjoyed working on a project from start to finish to create an art piece to raise money for a worthwhile cause.

Hihi class have been having lots of fun exploring the world of science.  Last week they made a Lemon Volcano!

This involved students getting the citric acid in the lemon to react with a tablespoon of sodium bicarbonate to create a foaming chemical reaction that was cool to watch. Firstly, they cut a V in the top of the lemon. Then the students created more citric acid by using a stick to mush the centre of the lemon.

Next, they added a few drops of food colouring and a squirt of dishwashing liquid to the centre of the lemon. Finally, the good bit!  They added 1 tablespoon of sodium bicarbonate and watched what happened!

They discovered the more they mushed the lemon and mixed in the sodium bicarbonate, the more the volcano foamed! And because of the food colouring it was a foaming rainbow extravaganza!