Exploring Gravity: Weighing Up Mass and Force!
This term in Year 5, we’ve been diving into the fascinating world of gravity and how it affects objects. Students have been learning that gravity is a force that pulls objects towards the Earth, and it influences their weight, but not their mass. To help explore these concepts further, we’ve been conducting hands-on experiments using scales and newton meters.
We started by discussing the difference between mass and weight. Mass is the amount of matter in an object and remains constant no matter where you are in the universe. Weight, on the other hand, is the force exerted by gravity on that mass. The weight of an object can change depending on the strength of gravity at a given location. We then used digital and spring scales to measure the mass of various objects, from small classroom items to heavier objects like books and bags. Afterward, we used newton meters to measure the weight of the same items, allowing students to see firsthand how the force of gravity affects weight.
This hands-on learning activity not only reinforced the scientific concepts we’ve been studying, but it also allowed students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The students were excited to compare their results and discuss how different objects had different weights despite having the same mass. It’s been a fun and engaging way to understand the forces that shape the world around us!
Ms. Farah Al Ssousi
Featured Writer
Plastic community
Poet:Amaanya Sachdeva
Is plastic fantastic?
Fun toys to play with.
How else should I keep the boredom away?
My pink, Colgate toothbrush to brush my teeth.
How else should I keep the cavities away?
Living in a plastic world. It’s fantastic!
Is plastic fantastic?
Plastic bags swimming in the gutters.
Do you think plastic bags are Olympic swimmers?
Candy wrappers flying in the air.
Do we like plastic birds?
Plastic straws planted in the ground.
Do we like plastic lavenders?
Living in a plastic world. Is it fantastic?
Is plastic fantastic?
Marabou storks eating plastic
Do you think plastic is food?
Plastic bags dancing in Lake Victoria.
Do you think Lake Victoria is a bin?
This mistake of misusing plastic is spoiling the world.
Death all around us. Do you think plastic is fantastic?
Ms. Daniela Adamcova
Year 6's are doing 'heart' work!
In science we have been covering the topic of the circulatory system in humans. Our unit of study started with an investigation into the heart. How it pumps, why it pumps and the role it plays in moving oxygen around our bosy through blood. We were lucky enough to have real animal hearts in our class where learners could apply their knowledge in a practical manner.
We also had a close look at blood. The components that make up blood and all their individual functions. We then visited the secondary science lab where we were able to have a look at red blood cells under the microscope.
A big thank you to Mr Akweri, head of secondary science, for collaborating with us to make our learning memorable.
Ms. Robyn Maison
Year 3 - Stone Age Day!
In December, Year 3 celebrated the end of their Stone Age unit with an exciting and immersive Stone Age Day! The children stepped back in time to explore life in the Stone Age through a variety of engaging activities.
The day began with a creative twist on maths as the children used Stone Age art techniques to design their own mathematical problems. They showcased their writing skills by crafting detailed instructions on how to wash a woolly mammoth—a task that required both imagination and precision!
Next, the students unleashed their creativity by carving soap to make Stone Age-style weapons and constructing models of Stonehenge using biscuits, a deliciously challenging task.
To conclude the day, the children enjoyed a Stone Age feast featuring dried meat, foraged grapes and olives, and hearty Stone Age oat bread. This activity gave them a taste of what life was like for early humans and brought their learning to life.
Stone Age Day was a fantastic opportunity for Year 3 to consolidate their learning in a fun, hands-on way. The children thoroughly enjoyed their journey into the past and developed a deeper appreciation for this fascinating period in history!
Ms. Serah Musundi
An Introduction to Geography
Year 4 students transformed into explorers, delving into the fascinating world of maps and globes. They mastered the identification of continents and oceans and gained a solid understanding of latitude, longitude, and the equator.
The learning experience incorporated technology and public speaking as students researched a country of their choice. Each presentation highlighted the country's hemisphere, capital city, and official language, showcasing their newfound knowledge and confidence in sharing it with their peers.
We know our brilliant KISU students will travel far and wide and now they can use expert language to describe their journeys! Where will they go next?
Ms. Emily Potter