Photo: Second Year pupils examining the evidence to discover the identity of the fallen World War One soldier
Second Year pupils enjoyed an off-timetable day with a variety of tasks designed to encourage them to work in teams using problem solving and critical thinking skills across the curriculum.
Geography, Maths, Modern Foreign Languages, English, History, Science and ICT were all involved in creating a series of puzzles centred on the theme of World War One. Pupils were divided into four groups which brainstormed together to solve the problems.
There was the chance to plot an enemy attack and the challenge of solving encoded messaging in French. In one session, pupils had to piece together evidence to discover the identity of a soldier. Another asked groups to build their own paper rockets and see which could fly furthest. Students were also challenged to make a video of their rocket design, production and launch. Four of the videos can be viewed on You Tube:
Bonus award – the teachers liked it!
Pupil comments on the day included:
“We learnt to look at things in more detail because small things make a big difference.”
“We learnt how to take information and use it to form a conclusion.”
“The day put subjects together, which expands our learning.”
“I enjoyed thinking outside the box while having fun.”
“It was motivational and a good way to open our minds to new subjects.”
Teaching staff were impressed by the pupils’ enthusiasm and interest. After all the puzzles had been completed, prizes were awarded for the best displays of teamwork and perseverance.
Miss Lamb, Teacher of English at Pocklington School said: “We hope that this experience will encourage pupils to seek out unfamiliar subjects and challenge themselves in new and exciting ways!”
Miss Cheadle, Head of Lower School added: “The First World War Off Timetable Day was a huge success. Not only did it challenge our pupils' communication, thinking skills and determination, it also gave them the opportunity to work collaboratively within a team. I was hugely impressed by the Second Years, both in terms of their engagement in the day and all of their achievements.”
To view a Flickr album from the day please click here.