by Jennie Scott

Term 4 Specialist Areas

Students are 3 weeks into their new specialist area and are enjoying trying out new techniques whilst also developing a variety of skills.

In E-Tech students have been planning for practice, recording a daily diary whilst also gaining experience using the laser cutter and 3D printer, creating their own individual projects including key rings and even some jibbitz.

In Food Technology,  Year 8 students have been developing their food glossary and putting it into practice, making sure their pasta was cooked 'al dente'. They will begin to explore and trial food products suitable for a market or food truck. Year 7 students have been practicing how to measure accurately, follow a recipe and use the stovetop safely as they prepare pancakes and nachoes co-operatively in their kitchen groups.

In Hard Materials, each week we have focused on a different set of tools and a project to match. In the first week of term, we started with the square and tenon saw to cut cubes for dice or blocks. In week 2, the focus was coping saws. Students made a wide variety of things - from Christmas trees to purerehua. This week, was the turn of the drill and screwdriver. Students worked hard to follow written instructions and assemble step gardens that will be used to beautify the school. They should be qualified to assemble flat pack furniture now.

In Visual Art enthusiastic Year 8 students are getting inspiration from a printmaker while learning the process of how to make prints. Pupils are becoming more aware of how important it is to not have fingerprints or smudges in their final prints.Year 7 students are learning the Elements of Art with some careful painters, using acrylic paints to show their colour theory. Students will be starting their Google Classroom Art Assignments which parents are welcome to look at and see their learning throughout the term.