This term in 3/4 Gollogly, we have been learning lots about Antarctica in our Submerged inquiry. We dived straight into the inquiry with a visit from the Antarctic Division, which was informative, fun, and intriguing. Each week we learnt about a different Antarctic animal, as well as a new word linked with Antarctica. While learning about the different species, we practised taking notes which helped while writing an information report on our chosen Antarctic animal. During a science experiment, we discovered how penguins adapt to the freezing, cold climate in Antarctica. We tested how their special oil gland (uropygial gland) keeps them warm and dry by pouring oil into blue-coloured water. While recording our results, we noticed the oil repelled the water and rose to the top.  

Kuka Pod hired an ice box from TMAG, which provided us with an opportunity to see and feel examples of clothing worn in Antarctica. We also analysed a taxidermied emperor penguin chick, whales’ teeth and baleen, krill, and geological samples. This inspired creative storytelling while writing a journal entry as though we were accompanying Sir Douglas Mawson on his Antarctic expedition.