Exploring Earthquakes, Discovering Data, and Bringing ‘Porridge’ to Life

 Grade 3 Weekly Update – Inquiry, Data, and Performing Arts in Action

This week in Grade 3 was full of inquiry, collaboration, and creativity as students continued their learning journey across different subjects.

Unit of Inquiry – How the World Works

In our Unit of Inquiry, we continued exploring the topic of earthquakes and natural disasters. Building on last week’s work, the students finalized the detailed plan for our upcoming earthquake drill. Throughout this process, they demonstrated strong student agency, collaboration, and responsibility, as they discussed and agreed on the key steps that will guide the drill. The students planned important elements such as roles, procedures, and how everyone should respond during an emergency. They also reflected on why preparedness and clear safety routines are important for a school community.

We also continued to expand our knowledge about earthquakes in Japan. The students worked together to create an Earthquake and Tsunami Information Wall outside our classroom, which shares important safety knowledge and facts with others in our school community. As part of their research, the students also investigated which regions of Japan are most affected by earthquakes. Using maps and their findings, they created their own maps of Japan showing different earthquake zones, helping them understand how geography and natural forces are connected.

Mathematics – Collecting and Recording Data

In Mathematics, we began a new topic: collecting and recording data. To explore this concept in a meaningful way, the students carried out a small class investigation. They collected information about everyone’s shoe sizes in the class and organised the data into a table. Through this activity, students practiced gathering information, recording it clearly, and discussing patterns they noticed. This hands-on investigation helped them understand how data can be organised and interpreted, while also strengthening their communication and thinking skills.

Language – Express Yourself & Let’s Perform

In Language lessons, we continued working on Units 6 and 7: “Let’s Perform” and “Express Yourself.” These units connect closely with our upcoming musical. The students explored how voice, expression, and language can be used to communicate ideas and emotions to an audience. They practised reading and performing short texts, thinking about tone, expression, and confidence when speaking in front of others. We also discussed what makes a performance engaging and how performers can use their voices and bodies to support their message.

VR Learning Experience

Another exciting learning experience this week was our Virtual Reality session. Using VR glasses, students had the opportunity to explore space and discover how energy is used in space environments. This immersive experience sparked great curiosity and many thoughtful questions. Students were able to make connections between our discussions about energy and real-world (and even beyond our world!) applications. It was wonderful to see their sense of wonder and inquiry as they explored space from a completely new perspective.

Musical Preparation – Porridge

A big highlight of the week was our continued preparation for the musical “Porridge.” We were very lucky to have a professional actor visiting our school throughout the entire week, who worked closely with the students during rehearsals. With his support, the children practiced their lines, stage presence, and acting skills, learning how to bring their characters to life.

The students spent a lot of time singing, rehearsing their dialogue, and practicing how to deliver their lines clearly and confidently. They also explored different aspects of acting, such as facial expressions, body language, and how to react to other characters on stage. It was wonderful to see how much the students grew in confidence and how they supported each other throughout the rehearsals.

Overall, it was an exciting and productive week filled with inquiry, creativity, collaboration, and performance. We are very proud of the students’ dedication and enthusiasm as they continue to grow as thinkers, communicators, and performers.