Our Gymnastics Reflections

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.

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

National Catholic Schools Day

Last Wednesday, the school was host to other Catholic Schools from around Northland. The theme for the day was 'Be the Change.' The challenge was for all of us to go out into the world to share the gospel of Jesus Christ, similar to the message experienced by the apostles at Pentecost. The day also highlighted how special we all are in God's world.

'Balloon Racers' Challenge

The movement challenge for Week 5 was to create a car using any material and be powered by a balloon. Newton's Third Law of Motion states 'as air rushes backward out of the ballon it pushes the car forward in the opposite direction.' The cars constructed were amazing! Well done everyone, especially those who received awards.

Our K'nex Experience

Last week we were sorted into 6 groups. Each group was assigned to a particular K'nex box, which included levers, pulleys, axels and wheels, inclined planes, etc. Our task was to work as a team to construct a machine using the equipment and instructions (if required). At the end of the session each group explained their machine.

Our Swimming Lessons at the Aquatic Centre

For the past four weeks, we have been learning how to swim at the 'Whangarei Aquatic Centre.' Our class was divided into three groups. All in all, we have learnt how to swim streamline, breathe from side to side, and improve our freestyle and backstroke(s). Thanks to those parents/caregivers who came to watch us swim and gain confidence in the water. A special thanks to Jenny (Christina's Mum) for helping organise the children, and for Tania (Kirwin's Mum) who assisted during changing time. I appreciate your help-thank you.