EOM - October CoRE

This term, the CoRE (Centre of Resources Excellence) programme students have actively engaged in exciting, hands-on projects that highlight their learning and showcase their knowledge within the school and broader community.

Years 5 and 6 Class: Exploring Natural Disasters in Minecraft 

The Years 5 and 6 students have delved into natural disasters with a particular focus on tsunami mitigation strategies. As part of their Project-Based Learning (PBL), they are exploring the Heavy Mineral Sands Mine of Wave Power ACC using CoRE Foundation’s gamified resource, Respond! Rescue! in Minecraft. Facilitated by Adam Brooks, students navigated through virtual training centres, interviewed characters, and documented their experiences in digital portfolios. This immersive environment encouraged students to apply critical thinking to test various disaster mitigation strategies, promoting collaboration and problem-solving.

The Minecraft platform provided a creative and interactive way for students to solidify their knowledge of disaster response. Adam’s support and expertise enriched the experience, and the students eagerly anticipate his next visit. They are excited to deepen their learning in future sessions.

Year 7 Class: Bringing History to Life with the Mundaring to Kalgoorlie Pipeline Project 

Year 7 students have embarked on an ambitious project as part of their semester-long theme, The Golden WA, which focuses on the Golden Mile and the renowned Kalgoorlie Super Pit. This term, they are building scaled static models of the Mundaring to Kalgoorlie water pipeline. This historical engineering marvel is key to Western Australia’s development, bringing water to the goldfields and sustaining mining operations.

Through this project, students explore the technical and cultural significance of the pipeline, understanding why it was originally built and its enduring impact on Western Australia’s history. As the term progresses, they will showcase models reflecting their knowledge of this pivotal infrastructure, combining creativity with an appreciation for the region’s rich history.

Year 8 & 9 Class: Showcasing CoRE Learning at the Perth Gem and Mineral Show 

This October, selected students from Years 8 and 9 had the unique opportunity to participate in the Perth Gem and Mineral Show, held from October 11–13, 2024. Students showcased their CoRE learning by presenting their Project Components (PCs) to a diverse audience, which included visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Their confidence and engagement in sharing insights from their CoRE learning model made a lasting impression, with many young homeschoolers expressing interest in this integrated approach to science education.

While at the convention, students also deepened their knowledge of rocks and minerals through interactive exploration of the booths and displays. This hands-on experience expanded their understanding of geological concepts and techniques, making the event an invaluable learning opportunity.

Across the board, CoRE students have embraced unique and engaging projects that enrich their learning, develop critical skills, and allow them to share their progress with the broader community. We look forward to their continued growth and achievements in the coming term.