Biomes, Animal Adaptations, Games, Kind Language, etc.

Happy Friday, 4A families!

Here is a summary of some of the big topics of learning this last week…

Language Arts: The Trumpet of the Swan, by E. B. White

The students are thoroughly enjoying our novel study of The Trumpet of the Swan by E. B. White. One of the central themes we are exploring is how all of God’s creatures are created with differences that—while sometimes surprising or even seeming limiting at first—can become sources of growth, courage, and purpose when truly understood and embraced as gifts.

In the story, a young swan who cannot speak finds his voice in an unexpected way through creativity, perseverance, and the support of his father. The novel offers opportunities to discuss inclusion and compassion.

We have read to the end of chapter 8.

Science: Biomes & Animal Adaptations

Our class has been exploring the incredible diversity of flora and fauna God created and learning how scientists group ecosystems into broad biomes. In real life, these biomes can blend into one another through rich transition zones that support high biodiversity.

Today, students became biome detectives.

Using a collection of biome dioramas I’ve gathered over many years, students rotated through eight stations, carefully observing each model.

Their challenge was to identify the biome using clues within the diorama itself—plants, animals, landforms, colours, water sources, and overall design. For each decision, they were asked to provide evidence to support their reasoning.

This activity sparked thoughtful discussion and critical evaluation. Students debated details, questioned assumptions, noticed inconsistencies, and identified features that were especially effective—or unclear. Just as importantly, they reflected on how they might build up strong ideas or improve upon existing designs if they were to create their own biome dioramas.

This thinking naturally led us to an important next step: beginning to co-create an assessment rubric. Students are involved in helping shape what a “good quality” biome diorama includes before any final product is ever built.

Whether this inquiry leads to students making traditional dioramas or something entirely new, the learning is already on purposeful path.

Another activity we did this week was learn about the ways animals are adapted to their specific biome(s). Students closed their eyes and choose animal figurines they had to identify and research and teach other about with respect to the specific survival skills and attributes they have. We created an “Animal Adaption Museum” to spark conversation and new connections.

Social Studies: Travel Spotlight

Our class was treated to a wonderful slideshow featuring a classmate’s recent adventure in New Zealand with his family. It was a marvellous showcase of biodiversity, along with fun literature connections—including some very cool “hobbit habitats”.

If any other students would like to put together a slideshow to share family adventures or special interests, please let me know. We love learning from one another.

Bible & Crew: Animal Puppet Shows

PCS is engaged in a school-wide inquiry into how we can we further foster inclusion and a true sense of belonging. A key focus of this work is helping students understand the beautiful diversity of God’s creation, as well as the impact of racism in our lives and communities.

Following powerful professional development that equipped PCS teachers with meaningful strategies to help students reflect on the impact of their words, students in our class have been engaged in thoughtful discussions about how to intentionally build a welcoming, safe community—one that brings people together rather than divides them by difference, while still honouring the beauty of our uniqueness.

This week in Crew, our learning culminated in students using a collection of animal puppets in short skits that modelled productive ways we can respond to unkind language—whether it is unkind intentionally or unintentionally—and particularly language that can isolate or hurt others based on their differences.

While the performances sparked levity, they remained grounded in the core goal: giving students practice using respectful language to name harm, offer meaningful apologies, and move forward together in ways that restore relationship and promote belonging.

Here are some excerpts of animal play scripts that the students built upon to make their own…

The future is in caring hands: the 4A class is showing so much compassion and growth in self-awareness.

Phys. Ed.: Calisthenics & Games

In Physical Education, we’ve expanded our calisthenics unit and students have also been designing their own game stations and fitness challenge activities. The variety and creativity on display has been a joy!