Thursday, August 12, 2010

Hockey One, Hockey Two, Hockey Three

On Thursday, Room 15 walked over to the hockey turf to practice our hockey skills. Beven (from Northland Hockey) taught us how to pass the ball, how to dribble the ball, and how to push the ball. I think the best part was playing the game of hockey. Hockey is fun. You should try it! Our next session is next Thursday.

By Harna (Room 15 Reporter of the Week)

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Ta Moko

Tā moko is the permanent body and face marking by Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand. It is distinct from tattoo and tatau in that the skin was carved by uhi (chisels) rather than punctured. This left the skin with grooves, rather than a smooth surface. Our 'green hat' challenge for this week was to design a moko using our knowledge of the Maori culture. The children had to describe to their peers its message, while acknowledging the importance that moko has within the maori culture. Their mokos are amazing!

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Harakeke

Tihei mauri ora! This week we have been reading a text about harakeke (flax). We learnt about its importance to the Maori culture. We discovered some interesting facts about harakeke. It takes about 17 years to mature before it can be harvested. The harakeke has three distinct blades, these are called "whaea" (mother), "matua" (father), and "rito" (baby). When cutting the harakeke, you need to cut the "tipuna" (grandparent) blades on the outside of the plant, and it should never be cut in the rain. We weaved the plant to create a headband. The left-over plant material needed to be returned back to where it first came from. The children enjoyed the experience and gifted their first headband to another person as a sign of respect and Maori protocol. We began and ended the session with a karakia. A special thank you to Mrs Collyer for your input. Enjoy our photos.

Day Dream Poem

Mr Werder thinks I'm reading...

But, I'm sunbathing in Madagascar with
the wild wind blowing sand all over my
sweating face.

However, I'm actually wrestling five
thousand hypo snakes in the middle of
freezing Antarctica.

But, I'm certain that I'm bouncing on
an immense pogo stick trying to beat the
world's fastest people ever!!!

Mr Werder thinks I'm listening...

But, I'm positive that I'm swimming with
a swarm of grumpy bees in a pool of melted
honey, aaah!!!

However, I'm shipwrecked on a deserted
island with no one to comfort me.

But, I'm actually fighting the New Zealand
Bank because I want my wages of five
million dollars!!!

I'M IN MY OWN WORLD!!!!!!!

By Olivia

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Dance/Kanikani/Movement

Kate (a parent) came to Room 15 to teach us a variety of dance moves. She demonstrated simple movement patterns and how we could use the space around us. We were placed into groups and choreographed our own dance moves. Each group then performed in front of the class. We learnt to work as a group, have fun and link what we are doing with the concept of ‘movement.’ Thanks Kate.

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

How a bicycle works (Explanation)-By Billy

Have you ever wondered how a bicycle works? Well I'll tell you how.

First you need to know the part. There is a bell, reflector, brake pad, seat, pedals, brake lever, gear lever, tyre, wheel, chain, handle bars and an axle.

The pedals make the chain move and the chain makes the wheels move. Great, now that you know the parts you can teach other people! First you put one leg over the bicycle and push down getting the bicycle balanced. You may want to put training wheels on your bicycle first to get more practice. Once you feel confident enough, you may take the training wheels off. Then you get back on the bicycle and push off the ground and put your feet on the pedals and start to pedal.

You can ride a bicycle just about anywhere. The best place to ride a bike is on a flat surface, such as wood or on the concrete. Make sure you always wear a helmet and shoes and elbow pads and knee pads.

Hopefully this story will help your knowledge of bikes, also it should help others if you want to teach them.

By Billy