Year 8 News
By Terry Tarapi | Posted: Wednesday May 29, 2024
Kia Ora Parents and Caregivers.
Our integrated theme this term is called “Eureka.” This has seen the students conduct a variety of experiments as well as participate in workshops run by community experts. Thank you to Steven Sexton and the Otago Museum outreach programme for helping to motivate and excite the students. We have now moved onto the second part of our project based learning unit. All students are working on a science fair experiment or a science badge challenge. Sharing this investigation with their Year 7 buddy class will be a great way to showcase their learning.
We are also well and truly underway with our Year 8 Camping Programme. It is wonderful for all students to be able to take part in this wonderful experience. The 4 day programme with our specialist outdoor provider has been a highlight. The activities that the students experience are an amazing way to relate to the natural environment. As we move into the winter months it is very important that the students have lots of warm clothing to enjoy the outdoor activities. Thank you to all helpers for making this experience possible.
The Year 8 cohort was lucky enough to be invited to the LPHS production, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” It was a very entertaining performance and the students cheered as good triumphed over evil. There were a number of Balmac students on stage and the students commented on the fine acting skills on display. The Year 8 classes have also been invited to a dress rehearsal performance of the OBs and OGs production titled “Legally Blonde.” We are all excited to be invited to another live performance.
An ongoing focus for our Year 8 group is the teaching of Te Ara Balmac (The Balmac Way). The current focus is on the school value of Kindness. At our last Year 8 Assembly Andrew Hunter talked about the importance of kind words and kind actions to enhance the culture of our school. Another message that was delivered was the importance of being an upstander. This includes speaking to an adult, in the event that an action is upsetting. Please do contact your child's teacher if there is an issue that your child shares with you. This partnership between home and school will enhance your child’s well-being and learning.
Ngā Mihi
Year 8 Teachers