Embedded Files
Discover our latest achievements! Every day brings new opportunities to grow and move closer to our personal goals. In Division 17, we focus on progress over perfection. Stay tuned—exciting developments are on the way!
26 June 2025
Looking Back, Looking Forward – A Note of Thanks
As this school year comes to a close, I want to thank you for being part of this outstanding academic year that we’ve shared - just look at this group of kids above! Through the updates on our class website, we’ve documented more than activities—we’ve captured moments of growth, perseverance, curiosity, and connection.
From the quiet focus of a math challenge to the laughter during a nature walk, and from the thoughtful letters to South Korea to the bold brushstrokes of student art, each post reflects something bigger: the formation of identity, confidence, and community.
Students don’t always remember the day-by-day—but they carry with them how they felt, who believed in them, and what it meant to be part of something meaningful. I hope as you revisit those posts, you see not just a year in review, but a story of becoming.
Thank you for all of your support! Wishing you a restful summer, hopefully some time off together and continued joy in all that’s still to come.
>>>> Mr. O’Connor
20 June 2025
Hello Families!
This week was full of unforgettable moments and meaningful learning as we celebrated National Indigenous History Month at Lochside and wrapped up several exciting projects across the curriculum.
As part of our continued commitment to truth and reconciliation, our class was honoured to welcome visitors from the W̱SÁNEĆ Nation, who taught us the traditional Bone Game. This game involved teamwork, strategy, and quick thinking—and gave students a deeper appreciation for oral tradition and Indigenous cultural practices. It was a hands-on way to learn about how stories, games, and teachings have been passed down through generations.
We were also fortunate to have Bruce Underwood visit our classroom for a drumming presentation, sharing traditional songs, rhythms, and teachings. He encouraged students to listen deeply, feel the beat in their hearts, and reflect on the meaning behind each song and drum. Jessica Underwood made this special experience possible, and we are thankful for her support in helping create such a powerful cultural connection for our learners.
Our students also participated in a series of lacrosse lessons, learning skills like passing, scooping, and cradling while gaining insight into the game's history as Indigenous Peoples used it to resolve conflict, build community, and bring people together through sport. We were proud to see students embrace both the athletic and cultural aspects of this powerful tradition.
In ADST (Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies), students completed and brought home their handmade pickleball paddles—projects that involved measuring, sawing, sanding, painting, and problem-solving over several weeks. These paddles are not only functional, but also reflect students’ creativity, patience, and ability to revise and improve their designs. This hands-on experience highlighted the core ADST competencies we value at Lochside: thinking critically, designing with purpose, and reflecting on the impact of our choices.
We also sent home a number of completed math activities, including the highlight: our Perimeter and Area Amusement Park projects. Students designed imaginative theme parks from scratch, carefully calculating the perimeter and area of each ride, path, and feature. From rollercoasters to snack shacks, the designs were both mathematically thrilling and wildly creative—a fun and authentic way to apply their measurement skills.
Grade 5 students will also take home their self-made Math Board Games, which reflect a wide range of numeracy concepts covered this year—including operations, fractions, patterns, and place value. These games are not only fun to play, but they’re also a great way to review and practise key math skills over the summer with friends or family.
In PE and Health, students explored their identity and emotions through the creation of Emotion Wheels. This project supported self-awareness, empathy, and mental well-being, connecting with our curriculum focus on understanding how our feelings influence the way we think and act. Students discussed how to name emotions, recognize their body’s signals, and use strategies to stay balanced and calm in different situations. When these come home - be sure to read through them with your child to see how and what they're currently feeling! We has some brilliant responses.
We also had a chance to showcase our creative talents and school spirit during two incredible Talent Shows. Students sang, danced, played instruments, performed skits, and amazed us with their courage and originality. It was a joy to see them support one another with cheers and encouragement, highlighting the positive, inclusive culture we've built together.
And finally, we capped off the week with our annual Fun Day, where students rotated through carnival-style games like the classic “Knock ’Em Down” baseball toss, ring tosses, water relays, and more. It was a celebration of teamwork, movement, and fun—a great way to wrap up our final full weeks of the school year.
As a bonus surprise, students also brought home their art portfolios—a collection of creative pieces from throughout the year. From painting and weaving to directed drawings and mixed-media projects, each envelope is filled with colour, imagination, and growth. Be sure to open it up together for a delightful look back at their year in art!
Thank you for continuing to support your child’s learning at Lochside. This week was a celebration of culture, creativity, and connection—values we carry with pride as a school community. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions or reflections. We have one week left and I'm excited to see what it brings!
All the best,
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
PS: I sent this document home today with each student - please try to complete with your child and return it by Monday or Tuesday if possible.
The Lochside multi-cultural feast the week of June 05!
June 06, 2025
Weekly Highlights – Division 17
What an eventful and enriching week it has been!
🦣 Tuesday – Royal BC Museum & IMAX Field Trip
Our visit to the Royal BC Museum and IMAX was a huge success! Students enjoyed the captivating documentary “Elephants: Giants of the Desert” and explored the museum exhibits with curiosity and enthusiasm. Thank you to our wonderful parent volunteers for making this trip possible — your support made all the difference!
📚 Writing Focus – Persuasive Monster Booklets
This week, students continued crafting their monster booklets — persuasive writing projects designed to convince others to “buy” their one-of-a-kind monsters! We’ve focused on using strong reasons, vivid descriptions, and imaginative features to showcase just how amazing their creatures are. These booklets reflect the creativity and effort our students have put into their writing.
🧭 Wednesday – Science Ventures: Nature’s Navigators
On Wednesday, our class took part in a fascinating hands-on workshop presented by Science Ventures from UVic. In “Nature’s Navigators,” students learned how animals like birds, sea turtles, and salmon navigate across long distances using their senses and environmental cues. Key concepts included migration, navigation, biomes, and ecology. The interactive stations and engaging presenters sparked great questions and curiosity!
🎨 Art – West Coast Inspiration with Misha Smart
Throughout the week, we’ve been exploring the bold, layered artwork of local West Coast artist Misha Smart. Students created their own interpretations of the Fort Rodd Hill lighthouse, using line, colour, and shape to reflect the beauty of coastal BC. We are thrilled to share that next week, Misha will be working with our students and school to co-create a mural for our school’s courtyard — a lasting piece of community art we can all be proud of!
🌍 Thursday – ELL Potluck Celebration
A heartfelt thank you to all the families who contributed to Thursday’s school-wide ELL Potluck! The incredible spread of dishes represented the rich diversity within our school community and gave students a chance to connect through food and culture. Your time, effort, and generosity helped make this a joyful, memorable event.
❤️ Friday – Jump Rope for Heart
We wrapped up the week with our Jump Rope for Heart celebration — and we’re proud to share that we raised over $5,000 for the Heart and Stroke Foundation! In a fun twist, three staff members generously cut their hair to help mark the achievement. Thank you to everyone who donated and participated!
Wishing you all a restful and sunny weekend,
>>>> Mr. O’Connor
16 May 2025
Hello Families,
This week we had an amazing opportunity - An Indigenous Drum-Making Experience at Lochside
On May 13, Grade 4–5 students participated in a meaningful, hands-on learning session led by Sandy Morris of the Tsartlip Nation, in partnership with Dee and Tessa from Oasis Society.
In small, respectful groups, students worked together to create a total of eight hand drums. These beautiful drums will now be kept at Lochside School to support continued learning and cultural connection.
Drum-making is a sacred tradition in many Indigenous communities, including here on WSÁNEĆ territory, where we live, learn, and play.
Sandy Morris shared that creating a drum is more than a craft—it's a process of intention, care, and gratitude.
We Remember to...
Treat drums as living relatives, not just instruments
Store them with care (not on the floor or in damp places)
Play with calm, respectful energy
Acknowledge the teachings of Sandy Morris and the Tsartlip Nation.
These drums will be used in our school with respect, care, and appreciation and are honoured to carry these teachings forward.
Please enjoy the video above!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
15 May 2025
Stay tuned for more updates! Until then - please enjoy a collaborative art project we made outside our classroom!
Have a great weekend.
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
28 April 2025
Hello Everyone,
It’s been a busy and exciting time in Division 17, filled with creativity, learning, and hands-on experiences!
In Math Five, we raced around the world (well, our classroom!) in The Amazing Race: Elapsed Time Edition. Students became global explorers, solving challenges about elapsed time—they had to calculate the duration of flights, layovers, and local activities as they "travelled" from one country to the next. This helped build a strong understanding of how to tell time on both digital and analogue clocks, as well as how to figure out how much time has passed between events. Using maps, flight schedules, and time zone clues, students sharpened their problem-solving skills while having fun with friendly competition. Now, we’ve shifted our focus to Perimeter and Area, using real-world examples to measure and calculate the space around us.
Our Science unit on Human Body Systems was brought to life with a special visit from Dr. Wakely, who volunteered her time and expertise. She amazed us with medical tools, including an ultrasound scanner that allowed students to see their veins up close—what an unforgettable experience!
In Language Arts, we’ve been having a blast with Reader’s Theatre, diving into fractured fairy tales—hilarious twists on classic stories! Through these performances, we’re working on key BC Curriculum goals: speaking with expression, listening for details, asking clarifying questions, sharing opinions, staying on topic, and taking turns. Students proudly presented their plays to both our class and our buddy class—Bravo! Encore! More performances to come!
A special highlight was creating beautiful Ukrainian Pysanky eggs, inspired by an amazing presentation from student A. Thank you to our wonderful parent volunteers, Shannon and Jessica, our EA support team, and Ms. Macaloney for making this cultural experience possible.
Lastly on Friday our class alongside all of the grade students at our school, also participated in the Student Vote with CIVIX, giving students a voice in a real-world voting simulation. Results will be shared soon when CIVIX/Student Vote releases the information. Curious about it? Look here!
There’s always more ahead, and I’m incredibly proud of the hard work, creativity, and enthusiasm these students bring every day.
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
22 April 2025
ADST Project Update – Pickleball Paddle Design and Build!
In our Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies (ADST) curriculum, students have been hard at work on an exciting hands-on project—designing and building their very own pickleball paddles! This project taps into students’ natural curiosity and creativity, giving them a chance to learn practical skills that are important both now and in the future.
Students began by measuring and designing their paddle templates, followed by learning essential tool safety, including the importance of securing loose clothing and hair, and using eye and ear protection. They gained experience using jigsaws to cut out their designs and experimented with different types of sandpaper to smooth the edges. Once their paddles were shaped, students painted them with their own creative designs.
Now, we’re learning how to play pickleball, and students are excited to take their custom-made paddles home to continue playing with family and friends!
Check out the video below to see highlights from the project!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
PS: Stay tuned for photos of the the final project!
10 April 2025
The past two weeks have been filled with a wide variety of engaging activities. In math, students have been strengthening their skills in reading clocks, telling time, and understanding the duration of time. These concepts are being practiced both in the classroom and through real-life applications, helping students better navigate their daily routines.
In Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies (ADST), students have been diving into the process of designing and creating pickleball paddles. This project has allowed them to explore the importance of designing, making, and applying skills in practical ways, all while connecting these experiences to real-world scenarios. The ADST curriculum aims to foster students’ natural curiosity and inventiveness, which are key in developing the skills necessary for future success.
In science, we’ve been focusing on the basic structures and functions of body systems, including the digestive, musculoskeletal, respiratory, and circulatory systems. We’ve started with the circulatory system, focusing on the heart, and students have been learning how to take their pulse. In addition, we’re discussing how personal choices, as well as social and environmental factors, influence our health and well-being. This connects to real-life decision-making and encourages students to think about how their choices impact their health.
Additionally, students have been learning about the Salish Weave and engaging in sports assemblies, where they discussed what to play during recess, promoting teamwork and physical activity.
It’s been a productive and exciting couple of weeks, with plenty of learning and hands-on experiences. We’re looking forward to continuing our journey of exploration and discovery in the weeks ahead!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
14 March 2025
Dear Families,
As we wrap up another successful term, I want to celebrate the progress each student has made in their own way. A major highlight has been our Social Studies immigration posters—a huge project that involved planning, researching, organizing information, typing, and designing visually engaging presentations. The students put in an incredible effort, and the results were fantastic! I am proud of the class and the individual growth each student has shown.
A special thank you to our amazing EAs, Ms. Schure and Ms. Yvonne, whose support, dedication, and great sense of humour made this all possible. We are so grateful for everything they do!
We also had a memorable performance by Candy Bones, where students explored the importance of a growth mindset and how mistakes help us learn. Two of our own even got to participate by designing clothing out of newspaper! It was a fun and interactive experience that left us all thinking about creativity and perseverance.
I hope you enjoy a well-deserved break, whether it’s spending time outdoors in the sunshine (fingers crossed!) or relaxing with a good book. When we return, we have exciting learning opportunities ahead, including track and field, cross country, body systems (skeletons and more), measurement in math, creative writing, reader’s theatre, and big events like Camp Imadene and Grade 5 graduation.
Take care, and I look forward to seeing everyone after the break!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
PS: Some students were absent when the photos were taken - we'll try to snag a photo to post after the break :)
05 March 2025
Wow — we’ve been so busy in Division 17! Students have been working hard on their weekly spelling lessons and tests, and we’ve tackled some big math concepts like division facts and long division. In Social Studies, our immigration projects are coming together, with final presentations highlighting students’ own identities — including connections to Métis culture, Filipino heritage, and more!
It’s been such a privilege to hear students share the special family stories, keepsakes, and traditions they’ve learned about from home. The excitement in the room has been incredible — from Ukrainian name origins to Newfoundland family roots, and so much more. These conversations have helped us explore how our own identities connect to the larger story of immigration in Canada, and how we all contribute to the sense of belonging and community in our school.
As students wrapped up their presentations and immigration journals, I even had a bit of extra “help” with marking — Crosby the cat took his role as assistant marker very seriously (you could say he’s a real cat-alyst for learning). 🐾
We also wrapped up a fantastic Kindness Month, with special events and announcements organized by Ms. Howells, Mrs. Takhar, and Mrs. Sinclaire-Wise. In class, we connected these ideas to our ongoing conversations about growing up, being a good friend, and building a community where everyone feels respected, included, and valued.
In music, we’ve started learning the basics of playing the ukulele — from how to hold it properly, to strumming patterns, and even playing a few beginner chords. Watch out, future rock stars incoming!
And now, for a quick joke to brighten your day:
Why did the cat sit next to the teacher’s marking pile?
Because he wanted to help with the pawsitive feedback! 🐾😄
I’m so proud of all the effort and creativity students are showing each day — lots to celebrate!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
P.S. Don’t forget — early dismissal student-led conferences are one week today!
Wednesday March 12th from 1:48 to 4:30. We hope to see you there!
24 February 2025
HEllo Pupils! Here are some bonus social studies links that Ms. Norris found for us! Click here if you want more info on your project.
https://sites.google.com/sd63.bc.ca/miss-norris-class/social-studies
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
20 February 2025
Hello Everyone!
Here’s an update on what we’ve been working on in class! In Grade 5 math, we are practicing simple division and will soon move on to long division. In Language Arts, we are working on Spelling Unit 7.
At school, we are also celebrating Kindness Month, focusing on ways to be kind in our words and actions. Did you know Pink Shirt Day is next week on the 26th? It’s a great reminder to stand up against bullying and promote kindness in our community.
In Social Studies, we are learning about Canadian identity, immigration, and the experiences of different cultural groups in Canada. Keep reading for more details on this project and how you can support your child at home! We are using a research-based approach to help students understand:
✅ How Canada’s identity has changed over time
✅ How immigration policies have evolved
✅ The experiences of different cultural groups in Canada
✅ Past discriminatory policies and their impacts
✅ Canada’s responses to discrimination and human rights
To guide our learning, we are using the Coast to Coast to Coast book series, which is age-appropriate and keeps our research consistent. Students will be working on a structured research project using a booklet that helps them explore key topics like:
🔹 Where and when different cultural groups settled in Canada
🔹 Why they came to Canada (push and pull factors)
🔹 The challenges they faced
🔹 Their traditions and celebrations
🔹 Their contributions to Canadian society
How We’re Doing This in Class
1️⃣ Research Phase – Earlier in the week we met in groups to choose an individual interest, then read the books aloud to understand them. The class did an amazing job.
2️⃣ Drafting Phase – They will organize their ideas using this structured booklet that we have in class.
3️⃣ Final Copy & Presentation – Students will create polished versions in Google Slides, which will be printed and displayed on posters. See this in the Google Classroom! You child can login using their school account.
How You Can Support at Home
📖 Ask about their project – Encourage them to explain what they are learning.
🌎 Discuss family history – If comfortable, share your own family’s immigration story or cultural traditions. Their Matchbook
📺 Watch or read about Canadian history – Shows or books about immigration can help build connections.
🗣 Talk about fairness and inclusion – Relate it to current events or everyday life.
This is a meaningful project that will help students connect history to the present and better understand the diverse society we live in. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out!
Thank you for your support!
>>>> Mr. O’Connor
14 February 2025
A Busy (and Chilly) Week in Division 17!
Happy Valentine's Day! Despite it being the coldest weeks of the year so far, Division 17 has been keeping warm with engaging and meaningful learning. From exploring history and identity to hands-on projects and exciting upcoming events, students have been hard at work developing new skills and expanding their understanding of the world around them.
We had the privilege of a virtual visit from Jeff Chiba Stearns, an incredible artist and filmmaker, who shared insights into Japanese Canadian identity, immigration history, and the treatment of Japanese Canadians over time. He showcased his graphic novel, On Being Yukiko, which tells a powerful intergenerational story about Japanese Canadian history, identity, and cultural resilience. His presentation sparked deep discussions, helping students reflect on the importance of understanding history, identity, and inclusion. This connects directly to our ongoing exploration of immigration in Social Studies. Students are now diving into research on immigration experiences using a book series that highlights different cultural groups, including Chinese, Irish, Middle Eastern, Southeast Asian, Japanese, and Caribbean immigrants. Each book provides valuable insights into the experiences of these communities in Canada, helping students develop a deeper understanding of immigration and its impact on our country. Students will be learning to find information in a book, and then to rewrite it in their own words in a Google Slide via Google Classroom.
In ADST, students put their skills to the test by constructing heart-shaped popsicle stick boxes, designed to store their Valentine’s cards. This hands-on project emphasized precision, patience, and safe use of materials—particularly the ever-popular hot glue guns. It was a great opportunity to practice problem-solving, creativity, safety and fine motor skills, with some beautifully crafted results - see the photos below for proof of their skills!
Math has kept our brains warm as we tackled multi-digit multiplication using both the split strategy and the standard algorithm. Up next: division! We will be introducing long division, a key skill that builds number sense, problem-solving abilities, and perseverance. It’s not always easy, but with practice (and maybe a little mathematical teamwork), students will strengthen their confidence in working with larger numbers.
On the extracurricular side, some of our athletes are getting ready for two exciting district events. The Basketball Jamboree is set for March 7th, offering a great opportunity to develop sportsmanship, teamwork, and some solid defense. Not long after, on March 13th, students will be making a splash at the District Swim Meet, where they’ll put their swimming skills to the test in a friendly competition. These events give students a chance to challenge themselves, support their peers, and represent our school with pride.
We also kept the momentum going with our spelling work, focusing on contractions last week. Mastering contractions helps with both writing fluency and comprehension—plus, it gives us a great excuse to say things like, “We’ve been learning a lot!” instead of “We have been learning a lot.” Efficiency at its finest!
On a personal note, I also had the opportunity to complete a course on the ethical use of AI in education today, which was a great experience. As AI tools become more common in learning spaces, it’s important to understand how to use them responsibly and effectively—something I look forward to keeping in mind as we continue exploring new ways to support student learning.
With plenty more learning ahead, Division 17 continues to bring enthusiasm and curiosity to everything we do. Stay tuned for more updates—and hopefully some warmer weather!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
11 February 2024
Hello Families of Div. 17 @ Lochside,
I hope you're doing well and staying warm! Just a quick update on two things before I head home:
Our class has decided to participate in a Valentine's Day exchange this THURS. I do hope they told you about this ealier! Participation is completely optional. However, if your child chooses to participate, please ensure they bring a Valentine for every student so that no one is left out. (We also don't have any food allergies for students - but yes I have a celiac disease/gluten allergy). A list of class names was sent home last Friday as a word search in students' agendas. Thank you for your support!
We will be starting a Social Studies research project that students will showcase at the Lochside Literacy Fair/Open House in early March. To support this project, please send in a poster board or trifold display if possible.
Students will be selecting their topics tomorrow, so you may wish to choose a board that matches their them (brought in by Tuesday Feb. 18th would be a good goal). If purchasing a board is a concern, please don’t worry—I will ensure that every student has what they need to participate.
Thank you and have a good night!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
24 January 2025
Hello Everyone!
We've had another productive couple of weeks in Division 17, filled with creativity, collaboration, and lots of learning! Here’s a glimpse into what we’ve been working on:
🎲 Math Board Game Creations
Our Grade 5 students have been busy designing and creating their own math review board games. This hands-on project allowed them to apply their math skills in a fun, interactive way. Once completed, students enjoyed playing each other's games, reinforcing their learning while engaging in some friendly competition. It’s been a fantastic way to review and celebrate their progress in math! Stay tuned—there might even be expansion packs when we cover new material!
🌍 Cultural Artifacts Sharing
Inspired by the book The Matchbook Diary, students have begun presenting their cultural artifacts to the class. These meaningful items and stories have opened up opportunities to connect with heritage, learn about each other, and celebrate the diversity in our classroom community.
📚 Social Studies Unit Launch
We’ve kicked off a collaborative Social Studies unit with all the Grade 4/5 classes! Students explored over 20 fascinating books and are now selecting their favorites to dive into. These books will help them explore themes that align with our learning goals. This promises to be an engaging and educational journey as students broaden their understanding of the world around them.
✍️ Canadian Spelling Units
Our students are tackling weekly Canadian spelling units, and they did an excellent job on their first week! Each week will feature a new set of words, culminating in a spelling test. It’s wonderful to see their dedication and progress shining through already!
🏀 Indoor Basketball Fun
We’re dribbling into basketball season! During second recess on Monday, students had the chance to sign up for indoor basketball, and the enthusiasm has been fantastic. This activity is a slam dunk for building teamwork, improving coordination, and having a lot of fun together!
We've had the pleasure of receiving support from Mrs. Sinclair-Wise this past week while I was away sick. She carried on with some of my planned Social Studies lessons on immigration and added her own creative spark to other activities, enriching the learning experience for the students.
Stay tuned for more updates! 😊
>>>>Mr. O'Connor
09 January 2025
Happy New Year and welcome back! I hope everyone had a restful and enjoyable holiday season. It’s been wonderful to see the students return with enthusiasm and energy as we dive into the first week of 2025. The start of a new year is always a great opportunity to set fresh goals, reflect on past achievements, and continue building on the learning journey we’ve shared so far.
Here’s a look at some of the exciting projects and activities we’ve been working on this week:
Grade 5 Math Board Games: Students have been busy designing their own math board games to demonstrate their cumulative knowledge of Grade 5 math concepts. These creative projects combine problem-solving and design skills. We’re excited to test them out together next week! Many students are already done, and all games are due on Monday.
Math Games for Multiplication Fact Fluency: Through fun and interactive CARD games, students are also practicing their multiplication facts to improve fluency and build confidence in their math skills.
Spelling Units in English: In English, we’ve been focusing on spelling through engaging activities that encourage students to expand their vocabulary and refine their language skills. Reminder: We have our first spelling test tomorrow as it should be written in their agenda. Forgot the words to practice? It's on the agenda!
Mixed Media Art Projects: Our art projects have explored the fascinating world of burrowing animals. Students have been experimenting with mixed media techniques to create unique and vibrant pieces inspired by these creatures.
Digital Literacy Week: This week, we focused on becoming more digitally literate as part of our annual Saanich School District initiative. Students participated in lessons co-taught with Mrs. Malloy, exploring topics such as managing screen time and spotting fake information online. By dedicating time to these important lessons, we ensured students gained a deeper understanding of how to use technology responsibly. We will continue to learn about this ever-changing part of our lives throughout the term.
Social Studies: Canada’s History of Immigration: We’ve just begun a major Social Studies unit exploring Canada’s history of immigration and how it has changed over time. To begin this journey, we read The Matchbook Diary, which encouraged students to reflect on their own family histories. For homework, students are preparing presentations about their family’s past, which they will share with the class next week. Please check your child’s agenda for details—these presentations are STARTING on January 10, 2025.
We’re excited for the term ahead and are looking forward to all the learning and growth that 2025 will bring! Thank you for your continued support, and let’s make this a great year together!
>>>> Mr. O’Connor
20 Dec. 2024
Dear Division 17 Families,
What an incredible term we’ve had in our class! As the year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the growth and accomplishments of your children. It’s been an exciting journey filled with creativity, learning, and community building, and I’m proud of everything they’ve achieved.
One of the highlights of the term has been our dragon projects. The effort, creativity, and attention to detail in their posters and papier-mâché creations were outstanding. These projects allowed students to let their imaginations soar, and the results were nothing short of impressive. Thank you to everyone who visited the classroom to celebrate their hard work—it meant so much to them!
Another memorable moment was our winter concert. From learning the songs to perfecting their stage presence, the students brought so much energy and dedication to their performance. Seeing them shine on stage was a proud moment for all of us, and their teamwork during rehearsals was just as remarkable.
This term, I’ve also witnessed tremendous growth in both academics and personal development. Whether it was tackling challenging math problems, exploring science concepts, or expressing themselves in creative writing, your children showed curiosity, resilience, and determination. It’s been a privilege to see their confidence grow with every new challenge they embraced.
What stands out most, however, is the kindness and support they’ve shown each other. Moments of friendship, encouragement, and thoughtful gestures have created a warm and welcoming classroom community. These connections remind us that school is not just about learning but about growing together as a group.
Thank you for your ongoing support and for allowing me to guide your children this term. Wishing you all a restful and joyful holiday season filled with family, laughter, and love. I look forward to starting the new year with even more opportunities for learning, growth, and success.
Warm regards,
>>>> Mr. O’Connor
13 Dec. 2024
Exciting Science Experiments in the Learning Commons!
This past Wednesday, our students had the opportunity to engage in an unforgettable hands-on science experience in the Learning Commons, thanks to the wonderful Mrs. Malloy. The focus was on inclined planes, one of the fascinating simple machines highlighted in the BC curriculum.
Over the past weeks, we've explored the properties of simple machines like levers, wedges, inclined planes, wheels and axles, pulleys, and screws. They investigated how these tools can change direction and multiply force, helping us accomplish tasks more efficiently.
Through hands-on experiments, our budding scientists observed the effects of friction on inclined planes with different surfaces and timed the speed of rolling objects to gather data. The highlight of the day? Using a giant Hot Wheels ramp to bring science concepts to life in the most thrilling way!
This dynamic, hands-on learning opportunity not only reinforced key science concepts but also sparked curiosity and collaboration among students. Thank you, Mrs. Malloy, for creating such a meaningful and inspiring activity. I promise I'll clean up the Hot Wheels ramp soon!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
Check out our exciting classroom adventures in the video below :)
06 Dec. 2024
Hello Families!
Our classroom has been buzzing with creativity and energy as we dive into exciting projects and activities! Here's a glimpse of what we’ve been up to:
Creative Writing and Papier-Mâché Dragons: Students are crafting incredible stories about their dragons on Google Classroom, focusing on their origins, habitats, physical features, and more. Their imagination and writing skills are truly shining!
Math Board Games Project: To review key math concepts, students are designing their own board games. The enthusiasm in the room is contagious—comparable to a Taylor Swift concert!
Mathletics Progress: Our students are making great strides in Mathletics. Their hard work is paying off as they continue to practice and build their numeracy skills.
Winter Concert Prep: We’ve been rehearsing songs for our winter concert under the guidance of Mrs. Alexander. Mark your calendars—our concert is on December 17th, with doors opening at 1:00 PM.
Word Game Challenges: Games like Boggle and Wordle are sharpening our vocabulary and problem-solving skills.
Buddy Activities: We’ve been working with Ms. Howells’ class and her student teacher, Ms. Heidi, to decorate the gym for the concert. The teamwork and creativity have been wonderful to see.
Simple Machines Unit: With Mrs. Malloy, students are diving into hands-on activities to explore how simple machines work.
Dragons and Women in Science Projects: A major accomplishment this term is completing our Applied Designs, Skills, and Technology (ADST) papier-mâché dragons. They look incredible! Paired with brilliant writing pieces about inspiring women in science, these projects will be showcased at an upcoming an open house before the break—stay tuned for more details!
Our students are working hard and achieving great things across all areas. Thank you for your support as we head into the final weeks of the term.
Best Wishes,
>>>> Mr. Matthew O’Connor
PS: Please check your child's bag when they get home and read their weekly journal, The Book of Thoughts. Be sure to respond to their entry!
22 Nov. 2024
Dear Families,
Over the past few weeks, our class has been very busy with exciting projects, meaningful learning, and fun events!
One highlight has been our Papier Mâché Dragon creations, inspired by the novel Dragons in a Bag. This project connects to the Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies (ADST) curriculum, where students are learning that:
Designs can be improved with prototyping and testing.
Skills are developed through practice, effort, and action.
The choice of tools and materials depends on the task.
Students have shown great creativity and problem-solving as they test and refine their designs. Each dragon is as unique as its creator, and we can't wait to share the final results with you!
In literacy, we’ve been researching and writing about women in science. Through scaffolding—a step-by-step approach to learning—we explored how to build clear and organized paragraphs. Students started by gathering research, organizing their ideas into outlines, and drafting their paragraphs with guidance on structure and content. They are now finishing their good copies, which will soon be displayed in the hallway for everyone to enjoy.
We also had the opportunity to go on a story walk with our buddy class, exploring local W̱SÁNEĆ Indigenous stories. As we walked through the area, students engaged with storyboards that shared traditional teachings and histories connected to the land. This experience encouraged thoughtful conversations about the connections between storytelling, culture, and place. It was a wonderful way to learn outside the classroom, learn to collaborate with buddies and deepen our appreciation for W̱SÁNEĆ knowledge and traditions.
In math, our Grade 5s have been focusing on:
Addition and subtraction of whole numbers up to 1,000,000.
Using flexible computation strategies like decomposing (e.g., friendly numbers, compensating) and combining numbers in a variety of ways.
Estimating sums and differences up to 10,000.
Applying addition and subtraction in real-life problem-solving situations.
Participating in whole-class number talks to discuss strategies and deepen their understanding.
Our learning has been hands-on and interactive, with lots of opportunities for students to share their thinking and build confidence in math. Please continue to work at Mathletics at home - you can login with them and check their progress and see if they have any task to complete.
Lastly, our soccer teams had an amazing time yesterday at the Soccer Jamboree at Blue Heron Park! The students demonstrated fantastic teamwork and sportsmanship, making the day a memorable experience. Be sure to check out their photo!
Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue our journey of learning and growth together.
Best regards,
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
01 Nov. 2024
Hello Families,
It’s hard to believe we’re already in November—time really is flying! This past week was packed with excitement, from our Halloween Costume Parade to creating literacy pumpkins (our theme was the Itsy Bitsy Spider!), but as always we also dove into some great learning opportunities.
We’ve been exploring Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World by Rachel Ignotofsky. Alongside our reading, we’ve been practicing the writing process, focusing on how to gather information from articles and express it in our own words.
In Grade Five, we’ve also practiced mental math strategies, adding a touch of magic to make it fun! On Monday, students will have a chance to test their skills one-on-one with me.
I’m so proud of the hard work and progress everyone has made so far. Have a wonderful weekend!
Have a great weekend!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
P.S. Did you spot Waldo? I heard there were a few hiding around the school yesterday!
My "cat?" jack-o-lantern!
Silly poses above. Happy poses below!
Which one is the imposter?
24 Oct. 2024
Hello Families,
What a fantastic week we had in Div. 17! On Take Me Outside Day, we ventured to Blenkinsop Lake to embrace outdoor learning. The students participated in nature sketching, inspired by the local artist Robert Bateman. This activity not only fosters a love of nature but also helps us understand local wildlife and habitats. Observing nature while creating art deepens our connection to the environment and encourages lifelong engagement with the outdoors.
Last week we also enjoyed a visit to the Central Saanich Fire Hall, where students learned about fire safety and prevention. This important training helps raise awareness and equips our students with essential knowledge to stay safe.
In math, we wrapped up our unit on place value. The students learned how the value of a digit changes based on its position in a number. For instance, in the number 3458, the place value of 5 is 50, while in 5781, it represents 5,000. We are now moving on to addition strategies, where students will explore various methods to enhance their math skills (Addition and subtraction of whole numbers to 1 000 000).
In writing, we're focusing on paragraph structure—crafting strong introductions, providing supporting details, and concluding effectively. Their Paragraphs of the Week (P.O.W.) are shining with excellence, and I’m thrilled to see improvement with each attempt! The growth they’re demonstrating is fantastic!
As the NHL season kicks into gear, we're diving into floor hockey in P.E.! While developing our skills, we’re placing a strong emphasis on teamwork, kindness, and sportsmanship. It’s great to witness the students supporting one another, both on and off the gym floor. We’re also discussing the importance of learning to lose graciously and celebrating our successes without showing off. These lessons help us grow as athletes and individuals, fostering a positive and respectful environment for everyone.
Lastly, we completed our Student Vote with CIVIX! The results are in, and you can find them here. More than 180,000 elementary, middle and secondary students participated in Student Vote BC 2024 - we're one school of many!
Thank you for your continued support!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
Any faces that appear blurred out are done so for privacy reasons. FYI to clarify! 😊
17 Oct. 2024
Dear Families,
What a fantastic month we’ve had so far in Division 17! Our class engaged in a variety of activities that fostered creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Today we're off to the Central Saanich Firehall for some safety training, followed by an earthquake drill! Is your family prepared for an earthquake? Check out these resources from the Provincial Government site.
In other news, our class partnered with our buddies in Ms. Howells' class for an exciting outdoor nature art project two weeks ago and fall themed crafts this past week. Students explored the surroundings and used natural materials to create fun and clever artwork. This experience encouraged them to express their creativity while working together, enhancing their teamwork skills.
As we approached Thanksgiving last week, we also reflected on the concept of Positive Personal and Cultural Identity. This long weekend offers a wonderful opportunity to discuss the importance of understanding and appreciating our diverse backgrounds, heritage, beliefs, and perspectives. By celebrating our unique identities, we foster a sense of belonging and community.
Later in the week, we took a trip downtown to learn about the various levels of government in Canada—First Peoples, federal, provincial, and municipal. I bet you heard all about it! Students gained insight into the main functions of each level and the importance of participation and representation in our democracy. With our Student Vote by CIVIX approaching on Thursday and Friday, this trip provided valuable context for our upcoming voting experience.
In addition to these hands-on activities, our writing sessions continued to thrive. Students are making great strides in developing strong paragraphs that include topic sentences and supporting details. We’ve been focusing on sentence structure, grammar, and conventions, which are crucial for effective communication.
Thank you for your ongoing support in our classroom. We look forward to another exciting day ahead!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
Any faces that appear blurred out are done so for privacy reasons only. I'm not randomly excluding anyone! Just wanted to clarify! 😊
Any faces that appear blurred out are done so for privacy reasons only. I'm not randomly excluding anyone! Just wanted to clarify! 😊
Having some fun with Ms. Norris' class and stacking our art higher ;)
04 Oct. 2024
Hello Families!
We've had a busy and fun-filled few weeks in grade 4/5! Whether we were reading an interesting book, meeting our new little buddy, or making friendships at recess, each moment has helped us grow and connect with one another.
Here’s a snapshot of some of the MANY THINGS 😅 your children have been up to:
Social Studies: Our inquiry into the upcoming Student VOTE on October 17th for the Saanich South election has sparked a lot of curiosity about democracy in Canada! Students are honing their skills by asking critical questions, gathering and analyzing information, and sharing their findings. It’s been a great way for them to connect with real-world issues and understand the importance of civic engagement. Be sure to check the agenda to see what they should be bringing to our class!
Math: We’re investigating place value this month including number concepts to 1 000 000. The students were also excited to explore our new Mathletics program, generously funded by the PAC. Thanks for this resource! It’s been a neat tool for reinforcing their math skills while making learning engaging and interactive! Their sign in (username etc) is glued into their agendas.
Orange Shirt Day: On September 30th, we participated in Orange Shirt Day to honor the Indigenous children affected by residential schools. Wearing bright orange shirts, our class came together to reflect on this important part of our history and raise awareness.
PE: With the NHL season around the corner, our floor hockey skills sessions have been a hit! Students are developing their skills while enjoying the excitement of teamwork and competition.
Science Experiments: We conducted some fascinating science experiments focusing on germs and handwashing. We even tested whether mold would grow on bread left unwashed! The results will no doubt be eye-opening and sparked lots of laughter and discussion. Look for the experiments in our classroom windows as this experiment will likely take weeks if not longer!
Writing/Book of Thoughts: Lastly, each week our students will likely bring home a notebook called the Book of Thoughts. This is a space for them to express their feelings about the week, share what they learned, and reflect on their experiences. Parents are encouraged to read their child’s entries and respond with thoughts or questions. It’s a great way to engage in meaningful conversations about their school life! Thanks for taking the time to respond so far, and please don't worry if you haven't yet! A new response will come home today.
It’s been a busy time here and we’re excited for the learning adventures still to come. Thank you for your continued support!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
PS: Our trip to visit our provincial parliment is next week! Exciting time ahead!
PPS: Be sure to see the pictures below with your little ones!
20 Sept. 2024
Dear Division 17 Families,
It was so nice to meet or reconnect with so many of you at our open house yesterday! We are off to a great start and I can tell this year is going to be a huge success! If you were unable to make it but would like to swing by and check out our space please don't hesitate to get in touch.
We are well underway with a number of our academic units. Students have been producing some wonderful writing within their social studies activities as well as their Book of Thoughts journals. Please read this book that is in their bag with the instructions on the inside cover. We will be moving onto paragraph writing next week where the focus will be around organization, ideas and conventions (spelling and grammar). Students will learn about topic sentences, supporting details and closing sentences as well.
Another big theme of the week was working on a colourful art piece. Students created a wonderful seaside town and used water colour paints. These will be sent in for the Card Project and you can choose to purchase cards (or other items) with your child's creation on it. This is a PAC fundraising initiative. I have also uploaded pictures to the class website which you can check out below.
Some other highlights of the week include:
number patterns and skip counting in math
playing passing games and four corners for soccer in gym
the Terry Fox Run and related activities
word art for Terry Fox in the learning commons with Mrs. Malloy
***Please note that Monday is a professional development day and there will be no school for students*** I will be at a conference on Monday offered by our school district called: Student Voice In Action: Our Collective Work Towards Anti-Racism and Decolonization.
Thank you and have a wonderful weekend!
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
https://forms.gle/Xyfd1wrQL26LGbrv8
Click the link above and answer the questions for a bonus!
As we explore Terry Fox's story and his remarkable dream, we are inspired to reflect on what motivates and drives us. Click on the picture above or scan the QR code to donate online today.
16 September 2024
Dear Division 17 Families,
Our first full week together has been a success! I can already see that the students in Division 17 love having fun at school while also taking pride in their work. We’ve done several activities, including some surveys, to get a sense of the class's learning styles and to discuss which classroom rules matter most to us. One of the highlights this week has been working on the "About Me" hoodie art project. These will soon be displayed in our classroom and have been a great way for everyone to learn some fun and unique things about each student.
We've also be able to focus on building strong communication skills, which are essential for sharing ideas, expressing ourselves, and working together effectively. One fun way we practiced this was through a game where students had to describe random shapes while their partners, who couldn’t see them, had to draw based on those descriptions. This activity helped students learn how to communicate clearly and listen carefully, both of which are key parts of the BC curriculum. Clear communication is important not only for learning but also for connecting with others and finding purpose and joy in what we do.
In Social Studies and Literacy, we’re about to begin exploring the inspiring story of Canadian hero Terry Fox. We'll also be starting our spelling unit soon, where students will work on activities throughout the week, leading up to a quiz each Friday. In addition, students will be bringing home their Book of Thoughts journal shortly. When you read the inside cover, you’ll see that the focus is on celebrating your child’s ideas rather than their spelling accuracy—an approach that helps build their confidence as writers.
In Math, students have begun their Fibonacci sequence Math About Me projects. Grade 4s have been learning with Mr. Koopmans next door, while the Grade 5s have been working with me. This team teaching allows us to give focused attention to each grade’s curriculum, while also giving students a chance to interact with different teaching styles and classmates.
Thank you so much for completing all the forms that came your way! I know it’s a lot, but it helps us get things up and running smoothly. Keep an eye out for a field trip permission form next week—we’ll be heading to the parliament buildings, which ties in nicely with an upcoming unit on government. If you’re interested in volunteering for this or other field trips, please let me know and take a look at the district volunteer requirements. ALL VOLUNTEERS must have a criminal record check completed. Please do this ASAP if you'd like to consider volunteering. This can often take a while for the Saanich PD to complete - don't delay, act today!
Lastly, it’s been wonderful meeting many of you already! If we haven’t had the chance to connect yet, our school will be hosting a Welcome Back Barbeque/Meet the Teacher event starting at 4:30-5:30pm in our classroom on this Thursday, Sept. 19, and I hope to see you there!
Best regards,
>>>> Mr. O'Connor
Working on our communication skills :)
Report abuse