Numeracy and Mathematics
We have been learning about weight and measure this week, firstly using the comparative size of familiar objects to make reasonable estimations, check these using an appropriate measuring device, read scales accurately and record our results in the correct unit. As we extended our knowledge of weight, we linked this learning to rationing during World War II by researching the amount that each person would have been allocated of specific items per week in ounces (oz). Ounces (oz), pounds (lbs) and stones are examples of imperial units of measure which would have been used in this era, which contrasts to the metric system of measurement used more regularly nowadays, e.g. grams (g) and kilograms (kg). Once we found out how much of each item was rationed, we used formulae to convert these amounts using decimal notation from ounces to grams by multiplying by 28.3, and then from grams to kilograms by dividing by 1,000. This allowed us to consolidate our knowledge of place value as we moved the decimal point three places left.
Literacy and English
Now that we have finished reading The Boy In the Striped Pajamas, our group text, we have been studying it in more detail to further extend our comprehension and understanding whilst developing our reading skills and strategies. We began by discussing the most prevalent themes throughout the story, coming up with some excellent suggestions such as the loss of innocence, friendship, relationships and family, division, good vs. evil, abuse of power, leadership, religion, war and conflict. From this we analysed a chosen theme in greater detail by examining where this was explored in the text. This week we accessed the story through an ebook to vary the way in which we interpret information. We were also introduced to the notion of cause and effect; the cause being why a key event occurs in the story and the effect being how this impacts upon characters and triggers other events as a result. This is often referred to as the ‘butterfly effect’. When reading various statements, we distinguished between fact and opinion before providing our own examples of these. Hitler expressed a number of strong opinions during World War II, but there was no evidence to suggest these were true or factual. Finally, we tackled a range of questions based on the text and word processed our responses within our reading group’s Yammer page. This opened up some interesting dialogue between the class to promote further discussion and debate.
Health and Wellbeing
The second workshop of our tobacco education delivered by Michelle from West Lothian’s Drug and Alcohol Service took place on Monday. We further explored the damaging effects that smoking can have on our bodies and were able to witness this first-hand. Through our research, we found that chemicals such as butane are found in cigarettes. Butane is flammable and also found in petrol, and is created as a bi-product of smoking to ensure a cigarette stays lit. ‘Smokey Sue’ was setup in the front playground with a test tube of water to replicate the moisture in our lungs before smoking one cigarette. We were shocked to see that the water was turned yellow as a result, and a build-up of tar could be found on the glass. Michelle also posed us with various ‘tempting situations’ and we were asked to move to the left if we were not tempted to smoke, or to the right if we were tempted to smoke. The idea of peer pressure was mentioned, and the children assessed the impact that risk-taking behaviour such as this could have on their health.
Have a relaxing weekend everyone! P7b, make sure you rest and recuperate before school camp next week! No late nights!
P7b and Mr. Logan
