Author: vlad

Started in our classroom in the Forest and then jumped on the “Seesaw,”- virtual learning platform. An experience that made us more independent and mature. We all feel stronger and most importantly more loving and caring.

KEEP

CALM

WE

WASHED OUR HANDS!!!

It will make us stronger…

We started this term at school,

And then were asked to go home.

But we were with our friends and teachers,

On the Seesaw and zoom calls, nobody left us alone.

We were keen to come out to see our friends,

Buy they said, “Stay home a bit longer”.

“No problem”, Oaks and Elms replied,

This experience will make us stronger.

Teachers made some videos,

They also made some raps.

And from time to time we gave them,

Those well deserved small claps.

They sent us some work,

and they said, “Do your best”.

“We are here if you need us,

We will worry about the rest.”

They tried to keep us together,

They tried to entertain us so much.

And we know that our education and friends are important,

that’s why we will stay in touch.

So stay safe, Oaks and Elms, help your parents,

Enjoy your holiday.

Read a book, wash your hands,

and most importantly, be good and obey!!

I missed my Oaks and Elms

I beg your pardon, Mr President?!!!

Did you say that we cannot come to school???

But I’ve missed my Oaks and Elms,

They are really, really cool.

Let’s take Oaks…

Victor is a natural polyglot,

Quite fluent in Mandarin, English and French.

He is always playing football,

He is never on the bench.

Lois is very calm,

But she is very smart,

Enjoyed our broccoli linguine,

And she very good at art.

Wadeema loves recycling,

And doodling in her book.

You never know, she might be,

That outstanding cook.

Grace is very determined,

And can make models in no time.

She does not live far away,

And often comes to school on time.

Georgina is caring and very polite,

She loves to read books and we know she is right.

Great effort in volleyball,

And when she serves it, she serves it nicely up right.

Kiana is very determined,

And very organised.

Forget about coronavirus,

Kiana’s education can not be compromised.

Jean lives just next door,

But even he can not come to school.

He will do his homework,

He will do it on seesaw.

Joaquina is very helpful,

And she often greets you with a smile,

But because of coronavirus,

She has to stay at home… just for a little while.

Roger speaks English and French,

But his favourite language is Maths,

Those numbers simply talk to him,

And he can deal with them very fast. 

Mathematics

Fractions

Chocolate bar,
Or cut that apple in half.
You need to know fractions,
To share your love.

Equivalent fractions,
Just means that they are the same.
They look a bit different,
But there is no one to blame.

Mixed number has,
 a whole number and fraction in it.
Add them together,
And you will have it.

One over two,
Just divide it in half.
You are superstars indeed,
Could I have your autograph??

One over four,
And that’s your quarter,
Great work on fractions, Oaks,
I am your biggest supporter.

Fractions:

This term we dived into the world of fractions, spotted them around us and tried to bake, make and share fraction and our love. We recognised and wrote decimal equivalents to ¼, ½, ¾ fractions and then compared some fractions of numbers by sketching simple shapes and numbers to help us. We solved simple measure and money problems involving fractions and decimals. The children practiced converting different improper fractions into the mixed numbers and vise versa.

Mixed number and improper fraction,

Are two best mates.

You can switch them around,

1: 1 rate(s).

Banana bread,

and Pavlova cake.

You need to know fractions,

If you are ready to make.

Adding and subtracting fractions,

With the same denominator.

Surely it is not difficult,

So don’t use (your) calculator.

When adding fractions,

With those denominators that aren’t the same.

Find your lowest common denominator,

Divide, multiply then add and you are on the fraction Wall of Fame.

Measures

The children worked on using all four operations while solving problems involving measures(time, length, weight and money). We practiced calculating the perimeter and area of simple 2D and compound shapes. We remember that in order to find the perimeter of any given 2D /compound shape we need to add all provided sides. In order to find the area of a compound shape, we remember that we have to split our compound shape into simple 2D shapes and calculate individual areas before finding the total.

Reading, sketching, understanding,

That’s how you solve that word problem.

Deciding on and doing those operations,

Gets you to the point “I solved them”.

Fraction here,

 and fraction there.

I guess you have noticed,

 they are everywhere.

Fractions of numbers,

And fractions of shapes.

Solving word problems,

While cutting those cutting those cakes.

Percentage of shapes,

 and percentage of number.

Remember about your denominator,

That number that’s under.

Sketch that box,

Sketch that cake.

Solve it well,

 then have a break.

Science

Young Oak perfumers went back in time to discover and identify the important mileposts in history and evolution of perfume . We tried to use and apply terminology and methods used to extract natural raw materials. As we were already engaged in our perfumery projects whilst still in class, “covid-19” confinement wasn’t going to prevent us from achieving our goal. In our “virtual classroom” we managed to extract avocado oil, aloe vera gel, lemon essential oil and made two different soap projects.

We experimented and we tested. We tried and tried again. We stayed safe, stayed positive and washed our hands with soap and with our own hydro-alcoholic gel.

We tried to test our olfactive receptors and guessed some common odours while playing with “le loto des odeurs”.

“You should really wash your hands” experiment. (ongoing experiment)

State of matter

Heat that water,

Change it to gas.

“Evaporation” we call it,

It’s as easy as that.

Cool that gas down,

And water is back.

“Condensation” we call it.

It’s as easy as that.

Freeze that water,

And you will have ice.

“Freezing ” we call it.

It’s as easy as that.

But did you know,

That you can?

Evaporate ice to gas,

“Sublimation” we call it, it’s as easy as that.

Three states of matter,

And that’s what they are.

Not always you can reverse it,

And there you are.

Experimenting in class(state of matter /separating /filtering/mixtures/solutions)

Spanish/Art Workshop with Mariana

Sports: Table tennis, volleyball and badminton

Enjoy your holiday!!!

Best wishes,

Oaks and Vlad

Mathematics

During this unit, we solved one-step and two-step problems involving numbers, money or measures where we had to choose and use appropriate calculations. The children practiced using written methods for multiplication and division HTU × U, TU × TU, TU × U and HTU ÷ U, HTU÷TU.

Directions and co-ordinates. Rotation and Translation. The children practiced plotting the co-ordinates of different 2D shapes and then located their corresponding co-ordinates after rotation/translation. We know that 2D shapes stay the same after the rotation/translation and found out that using the tracing paper evidently help us to pinpoint our new location. Rotation around the origin and around specific co-ordinates, A, B, C.

Science

This term Oak Class children became robotic scientists and engineers as they got engaged in creating electric circuits and designing their own toys. We investigated with various materials to find out which ones are conductors and insulators. We learnt about different electrical components (e.g. bulb, motor, buzzer, switch, battery etc…) their role and how they need to be connected to make an electrical circuit. We used imagination and gained knowledge to create our very own light house, cars, times table practice board , scientific quiz and 4 keys vs 4 locks game.

Mona Lisa smile,

And tic-tock clock.

Hydraulic hand,

And pop-pop boat.

Freestanding lighthouse,

And key-padlock game,

Times table challenge,

And scientific board of fame.

Digestive system,

and my heart rate.

Have been so busy,

And I did it all with my best mate.

Pythagorean tree,

And gigantic vertical game.

I’ve learnt so much this term,

I am not the same.

Did draw in perspective,

And vanishing point.

If you see any mistakes,

Please don’t be shy, just simply pinpoint.

Made my own soup,

Will make my own bar of soap.

I will make you proud,

There is always hope.

Science- “FOOD REVOLUTION”

The main purpose of this « FOOD REVOLUTION » (We can cook our own lunch for the whole week) was to practice team building skills, plan and prepare a healthy meal and most importantly gain or practice basic culinary skills. During this project, the children also worked on demonstrating and improving their table manners. It was pleasing to observe the young chefs, waiters and guests participating and communicating extremely well with each other. Master chefs stayed determined while preparing their three course meals even though it was tough to accomplish the challenge in a short period of time.   We learnt that it was important to stay focused and organised  until the last moment and realised that last push could make the difference for the team. Thank you and well done to all Oak and Elm class students for  their dedication, determination and hard work during our «Food revolution» project linked to IPC topic « It made a difference. They made a difference »

FOOD REVOLUTION

We’ve peeled some veg,

Then cooked our lunch.

Then baked a cake,

What a charming bunch.

We’ve tried something new,

And it was quite delicious.

It was all organic,

So don’t be suspicious.

We’ve learnt a new skill,

And now can cook for our parents.

We will do it with love,

No need to buy presents.

Not scared of broccoli, parsnips

Or carrots,

Will eat them with pleasure,

And not for the merits.

Did stuff some tomatoes,

And made some pancakes.

Now feeling quite strong,

And can fly over great lakes.

We’ve made some delicious soup,

And spicy fajitas.

I am ready to run,

Where are my Adidas?

Broccoli linguine

and banana bread,

I am so full,

And not ready for bed.

Was happy to give up my break,

And tidy the kitchen.

It is good to eat healthy,

And what’s your position?

Art/ Design and Technology

Linked to our learning in IPC, we measured, estimated and solved real life problems, where we worked out different materials that we could use for our own Vertical pulley-ball game. By using gained knowledge of the 2D and 3D shapes, the children experimented, designed and built their very own fully functional game. It was evident for the children to spot their mistakes and realise where they went wrong. The children planned and designed their own lay out of the game, then brainstormed and shared their ideas and only then picked the best ones to create an exciting object for others to play and enjoy. This game was built out of recycled materials and some that we could find around the school. The main learning point of this project was not just to build the ‘Vertical pulley-ball game’ but also to put our planning and mathematical skills in practice.  We persevered when something did not work out straight away and we were determined to do it again. The children also learnt how to use different carpentry tools and gained knowledge and skills will be appreciated when you will embark on a DIY project in your house.

Art Workshop (The discovery of perspective) with Mariana Gonzalez (Local artist, Saint-Germain-en-Laye)

The children learnt :

• how to observe and spot small mistakes
• how to use one point perspective and vanishing point
• how to draw different lines
• about the mentality and art evolution from the Middle ages to the Renaissance

Sports/Cycling

Birch, Maple and Chestnuts classes visiting our museum

Enjoy your holiday!!!

Best wishes,

Oak and Vlad

Mathematics

Calculating, measuring and understanding shapes:

We worked on measuring and drawing simple 2D shapes and then converting them into compound shapes. We also practiced identifying the main properties of 3D shapes and looked for various 2D shapes present in them. Gained knowledge of measuring was later put into practice while we created our props and costumes for “Lights, Camel, Action 2!”.

Securing number facts, understanding shapes

During this unit, we solved one-step and two-step problems involving numbers, money or measures where we had to choose and use appropriate calculations.The children practiced using written methods for multiplication and division HTU × U, TU × TU, TU × U and HTU ÷ U. Gained knowledge was later used while working out fractions of numbers (e.g. ¹¤₁₀ of 50kg).

During this unit, we worked on finding fractions of shapes/numbers and identifying various equivalent fractions.

In Statistics we solved comparison, sum and difference problems using information presented in bar charts, pictograms, tables and line graphs.

Science

« May the FORCE be with you = May the FOREST be with you »

Effects of forces on motions and Newton’s laws of motion

The Oak Class children were not FORCED but rather gently guided into the world of forces around them. The children were introduced to the scientific vocabulary (e.g. mass, weight, speed, gravity, acceleration and forces) and were encouraged to apply it while experimenting with different forces. 

Experimenting with Friction (SCIENTIFIC PROCESS-remember to have one variable and retest it three times).

How far will it go? Good question!!! Depends! Let’s find out!!!

1. Make your own ramp

2. Use a toy car

3. Change the height of your ramp

4. Change the weight of your car

5. Change the surface of your ramp

The children formulated various hypotheses, practiced planning their investigations and made predictions. After carrying out their investigations they made accurate measurements to gather data to test their hypotheses. They identified patterns in the results and drew conclusions based on the findings.

ART/DT

Clay project – Capturing the beauty of Nature

‘Nespresso Tree‘-recycling project

Forest Exploration – mushroom hunting

The children had the fantastic opportunity to demonstrate their creative side while making costumes, dancing, singing, creating props and performing on the stage during our Christmas Show.

Thank you and well done to all the Oak class students for their outstanding dedication and hard work during our « Lights, Camel, Action 2 ! The Sequin !» performance.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Enjoy your holiday !!!

Best wishes,

Vlad

Mathematics

Calculating, measuring and understanding shapes:

We learnt about different triangles, their names and main properties. We also identified acute, obtuse, reflex and right angles and then tried to measure them with the protractor. We then worked on finding the perimeter and area of simple 2D and compound shapes.  We practiced measuring in centimeters and meters and then used our findings to calculate the area and perimeter. We now know that in order to find the perimeter of the shape, we need to walk around the shape or add all the sides. So if you need a new fence in your garden, you know whom to ask! And for the area we need to multiply the measurements of two sides or count how many CM² or M² are there altogether.

Securing number facts, understanding shapes

During this unit, we worked on partitioning numbers into their houses of Units/Tens/Hundreds/Thousands and the knowledge we gained was used for mental addition and subtraction. The children then learnt and practiced how to add and subtract 3 and 4 digit numbers using appropriate written methods.

We solved one-step and two-step problems involving numbers, money or measures where we had to choose and use appropriate calculations. We read the problems, underlined important information then sketched small pictures that would help us understand the problem and only then decided on operations that we needed to use. The children worked on understanding and practicing their written methods for addition and subtraction (Specifically HTU + TU, HTU + HTU, HTU – HTU and HTU – TU).

Art

Felting Project

The process of felting is very hands-on! The children have to tease the wool, layer it, apply hot water and soap, manipulate and mesh it together with their hands and feet as well as rolling pins. Inspired by the Impressionist painter Claude Monet, Elm and Oak Classes decided to make the Japanese bridge in Monet’s garden in Giverny. The felting piece was made from fine merino wool, additional felt pieces to make the lily pads and coarser rare breed wool to make the hanging willow and added texture.

Science/Design and Technology

During this unit, we discussed, role-played and now understand how water can change, from a solid to a liquid to a gas. We discovered reversible and irreversible changes and then tested different materials to find conductors and insulators of heat. We conducted various experiments and then created our own isotherm bags by using different recycled materials. We also worked on separating different solids and liquids and created our own filtering station.

Linked to our learning in IPC (Nature, Respect and Responsibilities, we measured, estimated and solved real life problems, where we worked out different materials that we could use for our inventions and installations.

By using gained knowledge of the 2D and 3D shapes, the children experimented and designed their own monumental water installations.  Then it was time to build and as you can imagine it was not easy. N-number of broken screws and drill bits, bent nails and hammered thumbs, few splinters and not as many tears, sun or rain did not stop us from getting on with our mission.  We worked on estimating, measuring, cutting and drilling our plastic and wooden materials. It was obvious for the children to spot their mistakes and realise where they went wrong.

‘It does not fit!!!

What did I do wrong?

How do I correct my

mistake?’

‘Estimate and Measure

Try and try again!!!

Am I correct???

Do I need to check again?’

‘Can we draw it?

Can we make it?

Can we roll it?

Can we turn it ?

Can we stuck it?

Can we bend it ?

Can we crack it?’

Capoeira