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Exploring the Wonders of our Ocean
At BestStart Katikati, our young learners recently embarked on an exciting underwater adventure as part of our latest topic study, "Under the Sea." This thematic exploration allowed our children to dive into the mysterious and vibrant world beneath the waves, sparking their curiosity and imagination. Our study began with engaging activities that introduced the basics of ocean life. The children were captivated by stories and visuals of colorful fish, majestic whales, and curious sea creatures.
We transformed our classroom into an aquatic wonderland, complete with ocean murals and sensory bins filled with sand, shells, and water. Hands-on activities played a central role in our learning. The children crafted their own sea creatures using various art materials, creating beautiful paper mache fish and jellyfish. They explored the properties of water through experiments, learning about buoyancy and the different layers of the ocean.
These activities not only enhanced their understanding of marine biology but also encouraged fine motor skills and creativity. Through this study, we've incorporated local elements that make learning even more meaningful. The children have learned about the local marine life found in nearby coastal areas, understanding the connection between our community and the ocean. The children and teachers have also been inspired by the town's artistic spirit, creating their own ocean-themed murals that reflect the creativity seen on the streets of Katikati. We have also been educating the children about the rubbish and pollution that enters the waterways, and encouraging them to reduce, reuse and recycle.
At BestStart Katikati, we believe in fostering a love for learning through exploration of our localised curriculum. Our "Under the Sea" topic study not only expanded the children’s understanding of marine life but also supported them to contribute to community art projects and keeping our local river free from rubbish.