Learning stories for Hamilton Preschoolers
Ahoy There - In collaboration with Luz, Michael created a shabby pirate patch to incorporate into play. ClickHEREto view the full learning story.
Science fun - Click HERE for the full learning story
This morning the preschoolers participated in some science fun! We began
by working together to bring a whole lot of sand inside so we could
make some special volcanoes. Five lucky preschoolers had the chance to
build the volcano and once it was big enough Sarah asked another two
helpers to add the first special ingredient – Baking Soda. When we all
agreed we had added enough, we spoke about what colour we thought our
‘lava’ would be. Sure enough orange was chosen so we added orange dye to
add some extra fun! Finally, the last ingredient was added – Vinegar!
Watching with amazement, the preschoolers were able to see the
reaction that was taking place inside the volcano they had made. Out
from the top of the volcano poured a stream of orange ‘lava’ which was
very exciting to see!
When the reaction had finished the preschoolers spoke about what they
had seen. We remembered that we had made something that looked like
lava, so we thought it would be interesting to see what real lava looked
like, so out came the laptop and we all watched special video clips of
real volcanoes erupting!
What learning is happening here?
This activity was a very popular way of introducing science concepts
within the preschool learning environment. Being able to observe how two
items, such as baking soda and vinegar, can react in such an
interesting way encouraged the preschoolers to ask questions in order to
develop an understanding of what occurs in the world around them
(Exploration Goal 4). By working together as a team the preschoolers
were also able to create a unique and enjoyable learning experience for
everyone to enjoy!
Additionally, incorporating technology, such as the laptop, meant that
we could utilise a range of teaching tools in order to extend the
learning opportunities available within this unique learning experience
(Exploration Goal 3).
Kia Ora, welcome to the preschool room of Junior Junction
Hamilton.
Our teaching team consists of
three teachers, Tania, Sarah and Stacey who work together to create a learning
environment which encourages the preschoolers to develop a respect for people,
places and things; and supports children in the process of developing a thirst
for knowledge
while fostering integrity in the sense of becoming proud and honourable
learners.
Planning
In order to document and extend the learning that occurs within
the preschool environment, three forms of planning have been devised. They are as follows...
Daily Planning: Each day a specifically organised activity is
facilitated in an attempt to work towards an identified goal within the early
childhood curriculum, Te Whariki. Each
activity is recorded then reflected upon and this is filed within a 
planning
folder along with examples of the activities carried out.
Individual Planning: This is a plan which is devised according
to each individual child’s learning and development. It is recorded and displayed in each child’s
portfolio and runs in conjunction with the learning stories and observations
documented throughout the year.
Learning Journeys: This
attends to the spontaneous nature of learning.
When a group interest is identified planning is carried out in order to
document, extend and reflect on the learning taking place. This is made visible within the preschool
room and evidence is collated within a ‘Preschool Learning Journeys’ folder which
illustrates the learning the preschoolers are engaging in.