Our new Unit of Inquiry is: Where We Are In Place and Time

This is an inquiry into  the relationships between and the interconnectedness of individuals and civilizations.

The central idea is: The country I live in has a varied and distinctive culture

The key concepts are responsibility, connection and reflection with some related concepts of artefacts, identity, religion, traditions, location, acceptance, traditions, similarities

The lines of inquiry are:

• The mapping of geographical locations in Indonesia
• The artefacts associated with the traditions and religions of Indonesia’s various cultures
• How ISB celebrates and embraces Indonesian culture

Over the course of this unit students will build a greater appreciation of the diversity and similarities across Indonesian cultures and be able to compare Indonesia to other cultures. They will also be able to describe certain aspects of the cultures we study and locate key islands on a map.

The use of video, actual artefacts, guest musicians and guest speakers will be vital to the success of this unit.

Weighing/Scaling

Measurement

We measured the mass of food items using non-standard measures initially. We also used language such a heavier than less than... Using different types of scales is a good real life learning experience.

Bridging to Ten Strategy

Bridging to ten is a key mental computation skill: We teach this by saying that 9+5 is the same as 10 + 4. Once learned this strategy is applicable to bigger numbers as well as other combinations such 8 +5 is the same as 10 +3. Using the charts is a powerful way of embedding the understanding.

Sugar Experiment

Our Experiment

We tested different foods to see whether they had a high sugar content or not. We developed skills of hypothesising, controlling variables, observing using the senses, recording and reporting.

Cutting the food

We wear protective goggles.

Close observation.

Our foods are in the test tubes.

Adding the solution.

Using safety equipment to heat.

Observation