Ko te Rapare, 30 o Hongongoi

On Tuesday as part of our inquiry unit about 'what contributes to making us into who we are today' the teachers each created a speech/presentation depicting a small part of their lives. Each class spent 10-15 minutes with the teachers and were able to ask questions relating to the content and discuss the different approaches to writing speeches. We were all amazed at how engaged the children were and how much there is to talk about when you are sharing what makes you 'you'.

Mr Eames shared an old intermediate photo and talked with the children about how small he was and yet what a positive experience he had during those years. Ms Berry shared a series of incidences in her life that effected her and explored the many roles and jobs she has experienced which lead her to teaching today. I shared family photos, a personal mihi and talked about the importance of family in my life. You can see the family photos below.

In all presentations there was reference to the importance of having a supportive family, being allowed to be who you are and explore the different aspects of your passions. This was a hugely positive experience for the staff and children and was an excellent was to model how to create a worthwhile and meaningful presentation that has the ability to make others feel good about themselves too.

We look forward to hearing the children's presentations which are due in week4.

Tuesday 21st of July

Today we explored some of the key inquiry questions:

• How do others influence who we are?
• How do we influence others?
• How are we perceived?
• Do we make a conscious choice about who we are?
• Is our image who we really are?
• Can we really be ourselves? Be the best we can be?
• How do we have different roles?
  
• Are we always true to ourselves? (Integrity)
• How do we stay true to ourselves in different situations?

We had a big discussion and then wrote down our thoughts on these questions. What are your thoughts?

Monday 20th July

Big Idea: Who am I and what do I want to be seen as?
Mana Tangata - The power of the person.

Key Concept:
• Making a difference by being ourselves (positive influence) and letting others be themselves.
• Making sure people view us in a positive light.
• Mana Tangata – is the power acquired by an individual according to his or her ability and effort to develop skills and to gain knowledge in particular areas (Self Pride)

Other Focus Areas
Literacy: Narrative and Speeches
Maths: Fractions, decimals and percentages
PE: Gymnastics and Jump Rope
Art: Masks and Wearable Arts
Te Reo: Mihi & Mana Tangata

As well as developing essential skills in handwriting, basic facts, accuracy for writing (spelling, grammar and punctuation).

Also there will be a range of other sporting and academic opportunities including: Otago Problem Solving, ICAS tests, netball, rugby, basketball and indoor sports events.

Friday 3rd July

Miss Postma's leaving video