Prep: Learning Through Play

Last week Prep had an amazing week! They were really in the zone, and as their teacher I couldn’t help but stand back for a moment, so very proud of how far they have come this year.

Our unit of inquiry focus has taken off on a few different tangents, and I have chosen to encourage students to explore as their questions have directed. This week therefore led to a very unusual mix of play invitations, as you will see below. I actually really love this! It makes me so happy that I can allow and build into this exploration.

The thing they found the most exciting though, was something I was a bit unsure of at first. I went with my gut and did it anyway. With our exploration of culture, storytelling and expression, I have had students asking questions about the different ways building have been made and designed in different countries. Groups had attempted to make tall towers that they had seen, but wanted to see more. So I played a very simple YouTube clip that contained 100 still photos of landmarks found around the world. I was not prepared for the strength of their response!! It was incredible! They were all talking at once, discussing which were man made, and what they were made from. It was LOUD! And I loved it! They were so very excited! The focused play, involving incredible collaboration, and perseverance when their plans failed, that occurred afterwards was amazing. It was one of those days all teachers should have the chance to experience, and I was so grateful in that moment for the freedom to experience it.

*Exploring body painting using chalk.

*Storytelling with Aboriginal symbol stones, books, Australian animals and loose parts.

 

*Storytelling in frames.

Our focus letter sound of the week was /h/. 

*Hammers.

* Houses made from blue tak and loose parts.

*Houses for horses.

*Kinetic sand construction invitation to play. 

*Literacy centre.

*Mirror box numeracy centre.

*Patterning on contact.

*Washi tape dominoes. 

*Snow man making with play dough. Mats are a free download here.

*I loved this activity from the other prep class!

Any questions? I look forward to our final week of the term.

Jen x

Note: As we share ideas in prep, not all these ideas are mine. I also use inspiration from other sources and sometimes can't recall where from.