Collaborative Problem Solving

 

We are beginning to rethink how we implement our maths programmes at Pahiatua School. We are undertaking PD with Dinah Harvey later in the year and have begun some of the ground work in preparation for her arrival. At our last staff meeting we were shown a video about 'doing maths' a more collaborative, problem solving maths approach.

I thought that this seemed like a great way to get the students discussing their maths, learning and thinking so have attempted to implement some of the points from the video into my own practice. During week 6, I started each class with a 10 minute real life problem solving question which the students had to complete in groups.

I emphasised that they needed to talk with each other about their thinking and explain how they got the answer. The students have used these opportunities to deepen their maths understanding and to share their knowledge with each other. The groups are mixed abilities and provides an environment where students can learn from each other.

 

Abel Tasman Beach

Last week Room 10 were discussing the fundraising that was happening around the Abel Tasman Beach in the South Island.
There is a private beach which was being sold, but the New Zealand government were not willing to buy it. As a result a givealittle campaign was started with people across the country donating money to raise the required funds to make an offer on the beach.

In Room 10 we decided that we wanted to take part in the fundraising and donated $20. The following day we were contacted by the New Zealand Herald, as we were one of the last people to donate to the campaign and they wanted to find out more about our decision.

We were surprised to be contacted, and the following day were contacted by the Manawatu Standard and then the local Bush Telegraph.

Click on the links below to read the full articles.

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=3&objectid=11591699

http://www.stuff.co.nz/manawatu-standard/news/77046713/pahiatua-school-helps-push-abel-tasman-beach-bid-campaign-over-the-line

Black out Day

Today we had a black out day to support to All Blacks for their final against Australia on Sunday.
The students took part in a middle syndicate rugby cup and got the play several games of touch rugby throughout the day.

The boys relished the opportunity to perform a haka to start the tournament and made sure they did so multiple time!

Here's a photo of one of the first hakas introducing the tournament.