Learning outside the classroom walls…

“On November 8, 9 and 10, we went to the Art Gallery to see the Audain Collection and many more pieces of art. Some of the artists we learned about were Brian Jungen, Carole Itter, Won Ju Lim, Robert Rauschenberg, Andy Worhol, and Emily Carr. We had an amazing time at the Gallery…”

A field trip is much more than just a journey outside of the classroom. It is a journey into life experiences that cannot be duplicated within the classroom walls. Built into the field trip are elements of the school curriculum, teachable moments are highlighted and explored along the way.

We all know from personal experience, that many young children learn best while in motion. Field trips submerge children into the environment of their curriculum studies. Learning beyond the walls of the classroom allows the children to have physical interaction with their learning. Field trips provide an authentic reference, creating a quality learning opportunity that enriches their educational development. Children need to learn about the world around them, as it brings validity that what is taught in the classroom is needed in real life and offers eye-opening opportunities for children. Field trips also offer children the chance to experience activities they might never be exposed to.

It needs to be known that extensive planning goes into every field trip. The students of division 5 have experienced amazingly rich opportunities outside their classroom walls throughout their first term (as well as within!) due to the hard work of their classroom teacher, Mr McInnes. Exploring an overarching theme of community and home, the students have been on some amazing field trips, included among them are a neighbourhood tour with local historian, James Johnstone, http://househistorian.blogspot.com/ a visit to Vancouver’s Roedde House Museum http://www.roeddehouse.org/ , and an three day session to the Vancouver Art Gallery. I’ve visited the classroom a few times throughout their first term and the learning is rich, rich, rich!! In no way can I capture this in my blog but I have included a few art pieces and some student feedback. Check out the walls of the Sr. building’s upper hall and you’ll see their art and the rich writing that emerges from powerful learning experiences.

AN EXCERPT FROM THE ROEDDE GALLERY…