Hands on science

This term we are studying the elements that shape and affect our earth. We started by looking at the structure inside the earth.
Then we learned how the tectonic plates are constantly moving and making changes to the earth. We used biscuits and yoghurt to demonstrate the different ways they move and the effects they produce.

Rifts forming under the ocean when the plates move apart.

Subduction is when one plate moves under the other.

Mountains form when plates collide and push the rock upwards.

Plates sliding against each other and breaking cause earthquakes.

We took a closer look at mountains forming and tried forming our own fold mountains with sheets of cloth.

Remembrance

For Remembrance Day we took part in a live assembly from the Tower of London organised by

There was a mixture of articles about World War I, poems read by youngsters and information on how all the ceramic poppies were made. The poppies make a spectacular display  -  888 246 of them - one for each person lost in the war. When they are removed they will be making their way to people who have bought them. They are all sold out and money raised will be going to service charities.

After thinking about the war and discussing what peace means for us we created a display. We wrote our thoughts about peace on templates of white doves - the symbol of peace. When we were finished we assembled them on the wall in the shape of a dove carrying a poppy in its beak.

The picture will be uploaded to the Why Remember campaign for schools and will hopefully form part of a large online mosaic.

On Tuesday 11th the whole school took part in a two minute silence to show respect and think about all those who have lost their lives in conflicts.

Live Music Now

On Tuesday 11th November we were treated to live music from the Live Music Now project. This year our musical visitors were a duo called Rua MacMillan and Suzanne Houston. They play folk and traditional tunes on keyboard and fiddle. They had everyone clapping along and had songs to join in with too. We had lots of questions for them and had a very enjoyable morning.

Here is a link to the information on Rua and Suzanne on the Live Music Now website.

 http://www.livemusicnow.org.uk/lmn-musicians-info/id/767

Orkney Food Bank

On Tuesday 28th October we represented the school by visiting the Foodbank to see what happened to the food we donated after our Harvest Service at the school. Angus Ross from the Foodbank spoke at our assembly and invited us along. The Foodbank is situated on Junction Road, in the old Jewson's buildings.
The first thing that surprised us was the size of the building and how it is set out with tables and chairs, comfy couches to relax on, and a children's play area. The walls are brightly painted and there is information on all sorts of things!

Baskets of donated food.

Food is sorted by date and stored on shelves in the storeroom.

There are even recipe cards on the tables to give clients ideas for cheap, healthy and easy to make meals.

Orkney zerowaste have provided information points and games.

There is a selection of clothes for those in need.

The Orkney Food Bank have a collection point at Tesco where you can donate food and more information can be found on their website at 

www.orkney.foodbank.org.uk

Tudor banquet

Last week we held a Tudor banquet and invited parents along to see what we were learning.
First of all we had to prepare the food. Everyone had a turn at baking or cooking something for the feast.
                       
We wrote our menus out with quills and chose costumes to wear on the day.

Tudor Banquet Menu

Potage

Soda Bread

Spided Pudding

Lover’s Knots

Marchpane

Poached Pears

Mrs McRae has taught us a couple of Tudor dances and we have been listening to Tudor music.
On Wednesday 1st October we were ready to have our banquet.
The tables were covered with cloths and places set. The food was set out and Bishop James said the grace before we began!

After we had eaten, it was time for dancing and reading Shakespeare.

                                     

Reading Shakespeare

Many thanks to the parents who came and joined in and especially those who helped to wash and tidy up at the end. It was great fun and some people could have danced all afternoon!

Tudor Life

This term we have a focus on learning about life in Tudor and Stuart times. 
We have investigated the timelines of the kings and queens of England and Scotland and learned about the Union of the Crowns. 
It was good timing to discuss these events as the Referendum was happening in Scotland. We even had our own mini debate about whether we would vote Yes or No if we were old enough to vote. 
It was good to see how much attention we have been paying to the news and how we are beginning to form our own opinions using facts and evidence. The majority of the class wanted Scotland to stay as part of the UK.

We investigated aspects of life and learning in Tudor times and had a go at writing with quills. It was difficult to write neatly and easy to leave blots on the paper. We practised writing out a menu for our Tudor banquet.

Science

During Science Festival week we had a science workshop with a team from Aberdeen University. They had demonstrations to answer all kinds of questions using only things we would find in our own kitchens. Do ask before you try some of them at home though!
I wonder why the moon stays in orbit? Why do astronauts need spacesuits? What is friction? These and more were answered along with some optical illusions that were fun to try.

We experienced a strange illusion after watching the spinning disc!

Can he leave everything on the table?

Yes he can!

Ieuan about to get wet?

No! He was safe!

How many can stand on these balloons before they burst?

2

3

4

5! No room for more and they still didn't burst!

Challenger bus

Last week we had the opportunity to go on board the Challenger Bus when it visited Glaitness. The team tour the country giving presentations and talks about Christianity and Scottish people who have contributed to aspects of Christianity around the world.
The presenters are full of enthusiasm and deliver an experience that is enjoyed by everyone with singing, games and slideshows.
Our talk was about Bill Gilvear, his upbringing and life in the Congo.

Bill Gilvear 

Born in Glasgow. Grew up during WWII. Left school at 12 – no qualifications. Joined the Navy and trained as a Medic. Went to the Congo. Survived the rebellion – many incredible stories. Returned to Scotland and set up Naval support centre at Faslane. Bill is still alive today.

Getting on board

A warm welcome

Listening to the story of Bill Gilvear

Taking part in the quiz.

We didn't think much of Bill's dental tools!

A final pose.

We are lucky in Orkney that we have these opportunities  and say a big thank you to Neil Boddy and his team for providing the Challenger bus.

More information can be found on their website at:

http://www.challengereducational.com/