STORYBIRD

This week in 5S, we took our writing to a new level and explored an exciting website called "Storybird".
This website is filled with pictures and themes from a variety of artists.
It requires the student to select an artist and then create, edit and publish a story, based around this particular artist's work.
This has proved to be quite a challenging experience, as normally we would write a story first and then illustrate it. To begin with the illustrations, involved a lot of thought as to how a story could then revolve around these picutres.
We have had a lot of fun.
Check out the link below to see Oliver and Tyler's composition: "The Adventure of Treasure Island"

http://storybird.com/books/the-adventure-of-treasure-island/?token=vz99ra

SPEED STACKS!!

Speed Stacks (Cup Stacking) is really taking off in 5S, with a large number of students enjoying the thrill and excitment of this challenging sport.

A group of students have also set up a Wellesley Speed Stacks Club and you can follow their progress on their blog. Here is the link:

http://www.speedstacks5s.blogspot.co.nz/

They are looking for new members, so feel free to contact them and get stacking!!

MARS LANDING

The robot vehicle which has been on its way to Mars for the last few months is due to land on Monday 5.21 pm our time. Nasa are planning to broadcast this event which could be really interesting to watch, especially as they describe the seven minutes of landing as 'seven minutes of hell', given the difficulty of getting it down safely onto the Mars ground. Given that there is a seven minute delay in communication between Earth and Mars, the computer on board really is on its own in terms of directing the landing, so it will be fantastic if it is successful, and extremely disappointing if not...not too mention a trifle expensive!

The first link has a count down until the landing, along with lots of information and the chance to interact directly by asking the robot scientist questions. The second link gives some more background.

  

http://mars.jpl.nasa.gov/msl/participate/

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/21799427