Today we started our first STEM Lab using the new school Vex Go kits. We learned how to build with the kit and designed our own machines first. Mrs Ross and Mrs Conetta were very impressed with our creativity and build skills.
Working in groups, we then followed the step by step instructions to build or Base Robots. We then practised using the drive mode to move our robots around our table. After some trial and error using different driving styles it was time for competitions. We built our racing track and raced each others robots through the slalom. Well done to Olivia our racing winner this week!
We are looking forward to STEM Lab 2 next week where we will be learning to code our robots.
We have been learning all about the Fenwick War Memorial in our village. We walked along to look at it, record the names that are on it and take photographs. We then returned to class and drew line drawings and made a list of the names to carry out some research about the men who are named from WW2.
We invited Mr Stewart Finlay from the Kilmarnock Branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland to talk to us about the 9 men who are recorded on the War Memorial. Their regiments, where the were killed and where they are buried.
We learned that 2 of the men have War Graves in our local cemetery and we have decided to visit them on Remembrance Day to leave flowers and a poppy.
Stewart also brought along his medals and some jackets worn by veterans after the war in the 1950s. Stewart shared his knowledge with us and stories of his life in the army.
After learning that over 3 million Anderson Shelters were built in the UK by the end of WW2, we decided to create our own model versions.
Working in pairs and trios, we planned our design together and started gathering materials that we might need from home. We looked at photographs and videos of Anderson Shelters from WW2 and used these for inspiration. We also researched the kit that was sent to families to build their own shelter in their garden. This included 6 curved corrugated panels and two end panels with a door.
Today we started making our models. Watch out for our next blog post with our final creations…
Fenwick Primary School and ECC
