Exploring space in 5LB and 5RH

Last term, 5LB and 5RH participated in an integrated unit on space, that included the key learning areas of science, mathematics, English and creative arts. Students worked on a multi-week ‘Mission to Mars’ project where they planned a three-year return trip. One aspect of this program was to collaboratively create a 1x1x1m cube which would serve as the total space available for everything they needed to take with them.

In addition, students planned biomes fit for survival on Mars and designed clothing suitable for life on Mars. Building working 3D models of the solar system and creating self-watering terrariums were also achieved in the unit. Students investigated how Indigenous Australians used the night sky to help with hunting, food gathering, navigation and ceremonies. This unit required critical and creative thinking skills and the ability to apply knowledge across different disciplines. An important aspect of the term’s work was to collaborate using effective communication and negotiation skills.

Year 5 Grade Authors Talk

In the last week of Term Three, Year five APS students presented a highly detailed study of an endangered species (or a threatened environment.) Integral in the terms writing unit was understanding the structure and purpose of information reports. Students nominated an area of study either animal or environment under threat
to discover the current situation, including threats to existence, both immediate and long term, and prognosis for the future.

All students completed the research about their area of study and then created a hybrid novel using facts to create a compelling story which they made into a picture book. They used diagrams, maps and drawings to add detail to their books. The model for this task is a book by Alison Lester and Colleen Tulloch, titled One Small Island which tells the tale of Macquarie Island: its history, demise and eventual recovery after scientific intervention.

The completion of the task was celebrated in the school hall, with a Meet the Author event where the best books from each class were introduced by their author to the other students of year five.

The passion is evident in these books, students were highly motivated to send the message that The Future Starts Now and sustainability is no longer a preferable strategy, but the only way forward to ensure a future for these animals, or indeed this planet.

Books are on display in the school library and the front office for a limited
time!