Class 7 completed their major Algebra main lesson this term, which represented a significant conceptual leap, combining the world of logical rules with abstract ideas and unknown variables.  Our main lesson began with a focus on integers and working with the concept of negative numbers, which caused a few head scratches.  This led into the establishment of several important rules and processes of Algebra with students developing their understanding of expressions, brackets and order of operations.  As we moved into more challenging concepts, it was great to see students supporting each other and developing their resilience in working through challenges. 

The class then had the opportunity to select a famous pioneering Mathematician who has shaped our knowledge and understanding of Algebra.  Each student completed a short biography including some excellent portraits. 

This brought us into our final exploration of equations.  Here students learnt about the golden rule of balancing equations and began to use their knowledge of algebra procedures to solve practical real-world problems.  The Class 7 Algebra main lesson begins a three-year journey into a new world and language of Mathematics.  I am proud of how our pioneering high school class has taken on this journey, and the steady improvements made across the unit.  

To finish the term, we have been enjoying a dive into the world of Physics and Electricity.  This main lesson has taken the class on a fantastic journey back in time to the accidental crossover of frog anatomy and static electricity.  This of course led to the discovery of the battery!  Students really enjoyed creating and testing their own 6 cell batteries out of lemons, kiwifruit, Powerade and salt water.  Last week children learnt about the connection between magnetism and current electricity and made their own electromagnets.  We will continue this main lesson next term with an exploration into the electric motor before moving into simple machines and our physics car challenge.