The central idea of our second unit of inquiry is:
“ Transport systems are developed in order to meet a community’s needs. ”
Students will be inquiring into transport systems. They will consider how are our needs are met by transport options when moving from one location to
another; whether this be locally or internationally. In all communities around the world a variety of transport options have grown up to meet the needs
of the people. These options are, of course, affected by geography and economic resources. We will discover how the environment can be a huge factor
when developing a transport system. Additionally, we will also investigate the most efficient system to get to different places whilst taking into account
costs and the idea of a carbon footprint. For example, when travelling as a class from Schaffhausen to Zurich zoo, should we choose to walk, use buses,
cars or a train, or perhaps a private helicopter!
Language
The
main focus in language will be on persuasive writing where students will look at issues and compare points of view. After the airport visit the class
will debate a proposed airport extension for Zurich. Each student will look at this issue from a different perspectives, e.g builder, airport manager,
local resident. Added to this, a letter will be written backing up each point of view. We will look at the Voice trait. Voice is the writer’s passion for the
topic or issue. It should assert each student’s perspective/way of looking at an issue or idea. It includes the ability to offer sincere thoughts, being
confident in what is being put forward and using the correct vocabulary to express their point of view.
Maths
We will concentrate on the operations of number; addition, subtraction, multiplication and division reinforcing the strategies used to calculate
accurately, whilst also showing our working out. We will tackle word problems and highlighting key vocabulary. Furthermore, we will look at how data can
be collected, organized, displayed and analyzed in different ways. Different graph forms will highlight different aspects of data more efficiently.
How Can I help at home ?
Explore Google Maps and see how long it takes to get somewhere using different methods of transport, e.g by car, walking, cycling etc.,
Wonder about how people choose their transport to get from A to B and what impact this can have on our environment
Refresh our ability to answer maths questions mentally in a given time.
Mr.Andrews Class Teacher November 2015