STEM at Duncraig Senior High

This term, the Year 6s have been visiting Duncraig Senior High School to participate in a three week STEM program on Tuesday afternoons. Students chose to participate in one of three subject options; problem solving, coding or science.

Here are some insights into their experiences so far.

In problem solving we have drawn multiple patterns and shapes onto either graph or dotted paper. With the graph paper we copied complex patterns following the design sheet closely. On the dotted paper we drew unfamiliar shapes with a varying number of vertices depending on the shape. These shapes were types of optical illusions and were quite challenging to copy. The work required lots of concentration and perseverance as the shapes weren’t always what they seemed. Check out some of our work below!

In coding we have been working with Mr. Norman to code microbit with block coding and python. We have also been learning about algorithms, sequencing and loops. It has been a great experience and we have enjoyed every minute.

In science we have been working in the science lab with proper science equipment. We have learned how to safely light a Bunsen burner and the scientific names of equipment. We have carried out some experiments and enjoyed boiling some red cabbage and rose petals to create a red cabbage and rose petal indicator, which we then used to test the pH of substances including vinegar and milk. It has been great fun!

We have all really enjoyed visiting the high school and we are looking forward to going next year.

Numero

Duncraig Primary School recently participated in the North Western heat of the Interschool Numero Competition. Congratulations to the members of the three teams; Duncraig Dragons, Dynamite and Dugites. Thank you to the team members; Kade, Hayley, Sasha, Alex, Cooper, Julia, Zaxson, Rowan, Josh, Jay, Scarlett, Sofia and Mila. All competitors did a fabulous job, performing their best maths under time pressure and in front of an audience.

The Duncraig Dragons deserve a special mention for winning the heat and progressing to represent our school at the State Final, which was held at Sutherland Dianella Primary on 11th November.

Huge congratulations to the Dragons’ four members; Alex, Hayley, Kade and Sasha who finished third in the state! With a total of 210 teams entered across the heats, this is a significant achievement for the team and the school. We are super proud of their hard work and dedication over the year!