Illalong Newsletter - | A.B. Paterson College

Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Qualifying and Practice Camp 2 & 3 August 2024

Last weekend, Year 9, 10 and 11 students took part in a Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Qualifying and Practice Camp. Unlike the more traditional expedition orientated camps which have been based in the tropical rainforests surrounding the Gold Coast, this camp took place in the parklands and natural surrounds of Brisbane as part of an Urban Exploration.

Students explored the city environment working upon personal projects based around urban related topics. They carried out a comparative study of the predominantly manicured Brisbane Parks with the Gold Coast’s more natural untouched parklands. Topics included the impact of humans on the environment, how do cycle paths/designated pathways and footpaths etc impact on the natural features on the park and what is the impact of artificially designed parks on the natural environment (fauna and flora).

All students had a great time, cooking, and camping as a large group. Team spirit and enthusiasm towards all leadership tasks during the weekend's activities was excellent. The weather, although cloudy and cool was perfect for walking and exploring previously unknown parks and gardens. Students walked within the environments of Street Parklands, New Farm Park, Brisbane’s Botanical Gardens and Mount Coot-Tha Botanical Gardens. Highlights of the Mount Coot-tha visit were the Japanese Gardens and the Planetarium.

Special thanks to A.B. Paterson College staff, Erin Keogh (Assistant Head of Maths Faculty) and Melanie Dosser (College Nurse) for accompanying me on the weekend.

Andrew Sole | Head of Outdoor Education

Celebrating Our Sustainability Students at the Global Link Queensland Competition

We are thrilled to share the incredible experience our six sustainability students had at the Global Link Queensland Competition, held at the breathtaking Tangalooma Island Resort. This internationally recognised educational event, hosted on Moreton Island, provided a unique opportunity for primary and secondary school students to engage in meaningful discussions about environmental issues with their peers and local environmental leaders.

Surrounded by pristine national and marine parks, Tangalooma served as the perfect backdrop for our students to immerse themselves in various environmental experiences. This world-leading event is renowned for fostering connections between students from diverse cultures and backgrounds, allowing them to develop essential skills in leadership, presentation, critical thinking, and bilingual communication.

This year, we proudly sent three Year 11 students and three Year 7 students to represent our school in both the senior and junior school categories of the competition. Over the course of three days, our students participated in a range of activities, including dolphin feeding, whale watching, and tree planting. They also engaged in global discussions and presented on pressing environmental issues, showcasing their dedication and passion for sustainability.

Our students' participation in this event not only highlighted their commitment to environmental stewardship but also provided them with invaluable experiences and connections that will inspire them for years to come. We congratulate our students on their outstanding efforts and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will continue to make in our community and beyond.

“On the 31st of July at 5am, 6 students were getting ready to present their ideas at the 4th annual Global Link conference at Tangalooma Island. Our three-day trip started with exploring the island, viewing shipwrecks, and feeding dolphins – Matilda and I fed Storm, the leader of the dolphin pod. The next day was competition day. Representing A.B. Paterson College, our presentation on ‘Lack of Sustainable Frameworks in Schools’ placed us 3rd overall against students from Japan, Thailand, and Australia. The third day saw us connecting with students, planting trees and cruising around Moreton Island on a magical whale watching cruise. Thank you to Ms Beckett and Ms Harker for their support throughout this amazing opportunity. If you are in Years 4-12 and would like to join Sustainability Club, meetings are held every Tuesday lunchtime in Winton 4.” - Molly Read – Year 11

“As the junior team from A.B. Paterson College, we absolutely adored our time at global link. We had so much fun sharing our ideas about how to implement sustainable practises into our school canteen and found the judges feedback so helpful! The highlight of our trip would be socialising with other schools and listening to ways they have sustainability in their schools. We are so grateful to have had this amazing opportunity to interact with schools all over the world, over all different age groups. Learning from the experts at Tangalooma Island Resort about marine life was so interesting, and our entire stay there was the epitome of enjoyment.” - Sophie Magee – Year 7

Kiana Sloane | Science Teacher

Rev Up the Imagination: Designing Sphero Robot Cars with Year 4

The buzz of excitement was palpable as our Year 4 students dived headfirst into an exhilarating project: designing and constructing their very own robot cars powered by Sphero!

Throughout our Year 4 Design and Technologies unit, our budding engineers have rolled up their sleeves to design futuristic vehicles! All whilst documenting the Design Process in Book Creator. Students will crunch numbers, create Excel spreadsheets, and visualise their findings using charts and diagrams. This is when Math meets artistry, however, collaboration is key! At the culmination of our unit young learners will share their discoveries. This design challenge has sparked a love of learning across the cohort.

But what exactly does this design challenge entail? Keep reading for more insights!

The Design Process

Define the Challenge - Students grappled with the question: What challenges arise when designing a Sphero-powered car? They were encouraged to articulate the problem and explore solutions.
Plan, Research and Question - Students were encouraged to craft a detailed, labelled drawing of their Sphero Car. What equipment is needed? They were set the task of researching and using reliable sources. Precision matters!
Record - Throughout the challenge students took photos of their masterpieces and uploaded it to Book Creator. This step ensured that their design process was well-documented.
Design and Build - Students gathered materials to build their prototype. Collaboration was essential and this provided opportunities to build skills in teamwork.
Test, Evaluate and Share - It is showtime! Finally, throughout the process students will evaluate and also reflect on how their cars will perform and the changes they could make.

Before the grand ramp test, the children will be encouraged to ponder these questions:

Which ramp will propel the Sphero the farthest? Why?
What invisible forces at play?
Which ramps will send the Sphero on a shorter journey? Why?

We are proud of our Year 4 students! They have shown great teamwork, creative problem-solving, and an unwavering support for each other during the design process.

Samantha Middleton | Digital Literacy Co-ordinator Prep- Year 6

News from the Year 2 Classrooms

Poetry in English: Unleashing Creativity

This term, Year 2 students have delved into the world of poetry, exploring its rhythms, sounds, and imagery. Through reading and writing poems, students have discovered how language can be used creatively to express emotions, paint vivid pictures, and tell stories. The highlight of the term has been the Show and Tell performances, where students proudly presented their chosen poems to an enthusiastic audience of peers.

Measurement in Maths: Discovering the World Around Us

In maths, our young learners have been busy with measurement activities, learning how to quantify the world around them. From measuring the length of classroom objects to understanding the concept of weight and volume, students have developed practical skills through hands-on activities. Using rulers, scales, and measuring cups, they have learned to compare, estimate, and record measurements accurately. This foundational knowledge will serve them well in everyday situations and future mathematical endeavours.

Forces in Science: Understanding Push and Pull Forces

Science lessons this term have been all about forces and motion. Students have explored how different forces, such as push, pull, gravity, and friction, affect the movement of objects. Through experiments and observations, they have seen firsthand how these forces work in the real world. Students got a firsthand experience viewing forces at work during a Science Incursion ran by Emma from ‘Street Science’. Students even created their very own rocket to test.

Student quotes:

“I really like that we made our own rockets, and we got to shoot them up into the sky.” - Peyton

“I thought it was really cool how we got to make our own rocket and got to watch them launch into the sky by adding launch liquid and a launch vitamin, they exploded!!!" - Mackenzie

Connection to Place in HaSS: Exploring Our Connection to Place

In Humanities and Social Sciences (HaSS), the focus has been on understanding our connection to place. Students have learned about local history, geography, and the significance of landmarks in their community. They have explored maps, created models of local features, and discussed how places hold meaning for different people. This study has fostered a sense of belonging and appreciation for their own environment, encouraging students to become more aware and respectful of their heritage.

Australian State Floral Emblems in Visual Arts: Celebrating Natural Beauty

Visual Arts lessons have taken inspiration from Australia’s unique flora, with students creating beautiful artworks based on the state floral emblems. From the Cooktown Orchid of Queensland to the waratah of New South Wales, students have studied the distinctive features of these flowers and represented them through drawing and painting. This artistic journey has not only honed their creative skills but also deepened their appreciation for Australia’s natural beauty.

This term has been a vibrant tapestry of learning experiences for Year 2 students. From the creative expression found in poetry to the practical skills learned in measurement, the scientific discoveries about forces, the exploration of their connection to place, and the celebration of natural beauty through art, our students have embraced each subject with enthusiasm and curiosity. We look forward to seeing how these experiences shape their understanding and appreciation of the world around them.

Ashlee Lord, Deborah Brown, Donna Symms, Jacinta Lauder | Year 2 Teachers

Year 6 Winton Tour

It was a hive of excitement on Tuesday evening as the Year 6 cohort and a crew of our incredible staff embarked on their much anticipated adventure to Outback Queensland.

Overnighting by coach to Longreach, visiting the Stockman's Hall of Fame, Camden Station and the QANTAS museum before they make their way to the college's very own Barty's Place in Winton.

After their overnight bus adventure our merry band of travellers arrived safe and sound in Emerald for breakfast.

Beanies on as the temperature dropped! There was no time for rest though, the students were straight out on a Rubyvale sapphire fossicking adventure in The Gemfields.

We haven't been told yet of any big finds but perhaps some lucky parents will have an exquisite gem as a gift on the students' return. If not, the bag of rocks is very pleasant too! They then boarded buses after lunch and made their way to Longreach, where it was all systems go to set up tent city and spend the night.

Our students will spend two nights in Longreach and will be visiting the Stockman's Hall of Fame, Camden Park Station and will then enjoy the QANTAS night show Friday night, before they make their way to Winton on Saturday.

It certainly appears a good time is being had by all!