Measuring pressure in Grade 7 can be quite a pressurising task, but the Grade 7s seem to have managed wonderfully. Learners worked in groups on their last assignment in Technology for the year.
The Senior Phase Open Evening took place on Thursday, 13 September. Ms Franzi Stegen addressed parents about key areas in their children's lives that require particular attention. This was followed with a presentation by Ms Pretorius about the importance of research skills, as well as the possible subject choices for Grade 9 learners. Ms Newlands reiterated the importance of attaining appropriate research skills, but also explained that the school wishes to provide for all kinds of learners with varying gifts and abilities. Parents were then able to speak to their children's teachers. Opening evenings are essential for parent-teacher relationships and parents' interest is appreciated.
The SAICE National Bridge Building Competition was held on 23-25 August at St Alban's College in Pretoria. Luke Allen, Johnny Pop and Janek Stegen represented the school at the competition. The wieghing of the bridges took place on Friday evening and Domino Servite won the competition for the third year in a row. The boys' bridge carried 87 kg and the bridge achieving second place carried a weight of 75 kg. More importantly, the DSS bridge was lighter than the second placed team and this enabled DSS to win with an overall score of approximately 40 points.
Technology in Grade 8 certainly opens up the world of bridge engineering to the learners, even if it is done on a much smaller scale and with plastic straws! Which goes to show, if anything is designed well, it is worth its weight!
On 11 May the Grade 9 class, together with 4 teachers visited three Durban venues, the Natural Science Museum, the Sugar Terminal and Durban Harbour.
The visit to the Natural Science Museum was specifically worthwhile for the subject of Natural Science. The learners were exposed to model animals of a very wide range and informative visuals.
The Sugar Terminal was fascinating and very interesting, since it plays an important role in the South African economy.
The Durban Harbour Boat Trip was unique because some learners had never been on a boat before. During the trip we were informed about the harbour and its activities by a guide. It was a nice way to end the day.
